A Long-Running Series Reaches Its Final Chapter
Fans of the agricultural romantic comedy, Noorin (also known as No-Rin), have some bittersweet news. After nearly 15 years, the beloved light novel series is finally drawing to a close. The announcement was made during the GA Fes 2026 event, which celebrated the 20th anniversary of the GA Bunko label.
The series will conclude with its 14th volume, set for release on July 14. This marks a significant moment, as it will be the first new volume in a decade. To commemorate this finale, author Shiratori Shirow has launched a special crowdfunding campaign.
Commemorative Crowdfunding Campaign Details
The campaign is hosted on Soreosu, a crowdfunding service by animate, and has two exciting goals for fans to unlock:
- First Goal (2.5 million yen): Funding at this level will result in a special commemorative edition of the final 14th volume. This premium package will include a paperback completion memorial booklet and a complete-series storage box, both featuring brand-new artwork by the original illustrator, Kippu.
- Second Goal (8.5 million yen): Achieving this stretch goal will allow for a full reprint of volumes 1 through 13. These reissued volumes will be brought back into physical print with minor, project-exclusive special specifications.
This campaign offers a fantastic opportunity for long-time fans and new readers alike to own a piece of Noorin history.
About the Noorin Light Novel Series
The series began in August 2011 under the GA Bunko imprint, with Shiratori Shirow penning the story and Kippu providing the charming illustrations. Before this final volume, the 13th volume was released in October 2016. Over its run, the light novel has achieved impressive circulation, with over 1 million copies of its volumes in print.
For a quick overview of the key creative minds behind the series, here’s a handy table:
| Role | Name | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Original Author | Shiratori Shirow | Author of the Noorin light novels. |
| Illustrator | Kippu | Also known for work on Taimadou Gakuen 35 Shiken Shoutai. |
| Manga Artist | Asakura Maru | Adapted the series into manga form. |
| Anime Studio | Silver Link. | Produced the television anime adaptation. |
Manga and Anime Adaptations
The world of Noorin expanded beyond the light novels. A manga adaptation, drawn by Asakura Maru, was serialized in Young Gangan from March 2012 to June 2015. Square Enix published the eighth and final compiled volume in September 2015.
Perhaps the most well-known adaptation is the 12-episode television anime produced by Silver Link., which aired in the Winter 2014 season. It was licensed in North America by Funimation, which simulcast it and later released it on home video. Crunchyroll also streamed the series with German and French subtitles.
What is Noorin All About?
The story follows Hata Kousaku, a dedicated idol fan whose world is shattered when his favorite star, Kusakabe Yuka, suddenly retires at the height of her fame. His depression leads to self-imposed isolation, but his friends eventually coax him back to school. To his astonishment, he discovers that his retired idol is now his new classmate, going by the name Kinoshita Ringo.
Filled with renewed purpose, Kousaku sees this as a once-in-a-lifetime chance. With help from his teacher and friends, he sets out to get close to the girl of his dreams and uncover the mysterious reason behind her abrupt departure from show business.
For More Information
You can check out the official novel special site at: https://ga.sbcr.jp/sp/norin/
The Soreosu crowdfunding page is available at: https://soreosu.com/projects/no-rin
Source: GA Bunko on X
