The October 23, 2026 issue of Young Animal puts Shinonome Umi on the cover and in the opening gravure, while also delivering the latest chapter of Umino Chika’s 3-gatsu no Lion and news that the novel behind Jirai Glico is set for a drama adaptation.
3-gatsu no Lion continues in issue 21
3-gatsu no Lion is Umino Chika’s shogi-themed love story, serialized in Young Animal. The story follows Kiriyama Rei, a 17-year-old professional shogi player who lost his family in an accident when he was young and carries a deep sense of loneliness both in daily life and on the board. Through his encounters with the three sisters Akari, Hinata, and Momo, he slowly begins to recover warmth in his heart.
The series was adapted into two TV anime series between 2016 and 2018, and in 2017 it also received a two-part live-action film adaptation starring Kamiki Ryuunosuke.
Issue 21 includes the latest chapter of the manga and introduces the 3-gatsu no Lion Diary 2027. The diary is scheduled for release on November 27, with preorders being accepted at bookstores.
Shinonome Umi leads the cover and gravure lineup
Shinonome Umi appears on the cover and in the opening gravure. The issue comes with a double-sided clear file as a special supplement, along with an 85-minute DVD featuring Enako, Shinonome Umi, Ichinose Runa, Chitose Yoshino from Amaimono Tsumeawase, Ikumi, Kankitsu Metaru, Kohinata Nanase, Chukimerodi!, Honami Ami, Minami Nao, and PP Enterprise.
Jirai Glico drama news and more manga highlights
The original novel behind the manga Jirai Glico has been confirmed for a drama adaptation. The latest collected volume, volume 5, is scheduled for release on October 29.
Issue 21 also features Succubus Daikou by Kawanaka Yasutsugu with color pages at the opening, and World Ender: Sekai ni Kirawareta Kimi to no N-kaime—original story by Sazane Kei and manga by Soyo Uu—with color pages. Aika makes her first appearance in the closing gravure.
Issue details
Young Animal issue 21 (2026) is in B5 format and priced at 550 yen (tax included). It goes on sale on October 23, 2026, and Young Animal is published on the second and fourth Fridays of each month. A digital edition is listed at 440 yen.
