Naomi Ishiguro Reveals the Cover of ‘The Rainshadow Orphans’ (Exclusive)
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Naomi Ishiguro has unveiled the cover of her upcoming novel, ‘The Rainshadow Orphans,’ exclusively to PEOPLE. The book marks the beginning of a new fantasy trilogy by the author, drawing inspiration from beloved anime titles like Studio Ghibli and Pokémon.
Expressing her excitement about sharing the world and characters of ‘The Rainshadow Orphans’ with readers, Ishiguro is set to captivate audiences with her latest creation. The British author is set to launch the trilogy next year, starting with the publication of the novel under Saga Press, an imprint of Simon & Schuster.
Set in the fictional Rainshadow City, a place rife with corruption and poverty, the story follows the citizens who are constantly targeted by the criminal organization known as the Lucky Crows. The narrative revolves around five central characters: Jun, Toshiko, and Mei Kawakami, a makeshift family seeking retribution for their “aunt’s” murder; Haru, the reluctant heir to the Emperor’s throne; and Theo, a member of the Lucky Crows desperate to break free from her unlawful immigrant status.
The plot thickens when Toshiko steals a valuable dragon’s pearl from the leader of the Crows, leading to a series of events that intertwine the lives of these characters over a span of two days. Drawing inspiration from popular anime series such as Pokemon, Akira, and Studio Ghibli, the novel promises a gripping and immersive experience for readers.
According to Ishiguro, the genesis of the novel stems from her interactions with resilient and optimistic young individuals during her tenure as a high school teacher. Witnessing the hope and spirit of these teenagers inspired Ishiguro to craft a narrative that embodies adventure and optimism while addressing real societal challenges.
Apart from her forthcoming trilogy, Ishiguro is known for her previous works, including the novel ‘Common Ground’ and the short story collection ‘Escape Routes.’ Scheduled for release on May 26, 2026, ‘The Rainshadow Orphans’ is now available for pre-order, offering readers a chance to delve into Ishiguro’s enchanting world of fantasy.
As Ishiguro eagerly anticipates introducing U.S. readers to the vibrant universe of ‘The Rainshadow Orphans,’ her collaboration with Saga Press signifies a significant milestone in her literary journey. With a focus on resilience and optimism, the novel promises to be a compelling addition to the realm of fantasy literature, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.