[Interview] Hayakawa’s New Comic Site Hayakomi's Edge - Manga Adaptations of Global Novels like 'Flowers for Algernon
Recently, Hayakawa Publishing announced the launch of their comic site "Hayakomi." Although the electronic comic market is expanding, it is undeniable that Hayakomi is a latecomer. However, the company is leveraging its unique advantage by adapting exquisite foreign novels into manga. The first projects include the 20th century's greatest sci-fi work "Solaris" and Agatha Christie's famous "And Then There Were None," showcasing their serious commitment. We spoke with Akira Yamaguchi from the company's business department/editorial planning office.
Spotlight on "Hayakomi's" Comic Adaptations of World-Famous Sci-Fi and Mystery Novels
Hayakomi
The Launch of "Hayakomi" Received Positively: "Many Requests to Adapt Various Titles into Manga"
Q: Hayakomi launched on July 23. Can you tell us about the intentions and background of starting this comic site?
Akira Yamaguchi:
We began gradually moving towards novel adaptations into manga about four years ago. Hayakawa Publishing, which celebrates its 80th anniversary next year, has a wealth of classic novels. We decided last year that the best way to introduce these adaptations was through serials on the web, considering the reading trends of comic audiences. We concluded that it would be better to start with web serials and create buzz on social media rather than immediately releasing paper or digital comics.
Q: When people think of Hayakawa Publishing, they often associate it with strong "foreign literature." With numerous masterpieces like Arthur C. Clarke's "2001: A Space Odyssey" and the highly popular "Flowers for Algernon" in Japan, how do you plan to engage core novel fans who might be skeptical about media mix adaptations?
Akira Yamaguchi:
In the past, core fans might have intimidated casual readers or engaged in gatekeeping, but nowadays, such attitudes are rare. Most fans want more people to appreciate the charm of sci-fi and mystery genres. The announcement of "Hayakomi" was met with positive feedback from both sci-fi and mystery fans. The most frequent requests we received were for specific titles to be adapted into manga.
"And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie, manga by Aya Nikaido
Q: Indeed, core fans are likely excited about seeing iconic sci-fi novels, which served as the foundation for classic Japanese sci-fi films, being adapted faithfully into manga. The announcement of the first project, the adaptation of "Solaris" (published in 1961 and a representative work of 20th-century sci-fi), must have been thrilling for many fans.
Akira Yamaguchi:
We are creating manga that will satisfy even the most passionate fans. The original novel's editors are also meticulously reviewing the manga version to ensure the original spirit is faithfully transplanted.
Q: When it comes to media mix adaptations, there are generally two approaches: sticking faithfully to the original work or incorporating new elements. Which approach do you prioritize?
Akira Yamaguchi:
We prioritize staying true to the original work. It's essential that readers can follow the fundamental storyline of the original novel through the manga. Another significant aim of launching "Hayakomi" is to sell licenses overseas, so it is crucial to satisfy fans of the original works globally.
"And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie, manga by Aya Nikaido
Novel Adaptations Help Preserve "Classics": "Providing the Same Surprise and Enjoyment as Reading the Original Novel"
Q: Recently, adaptations of manga and anime into live-action films have often been criticized for their lack of respect for the original works. However, when adapting novels, there is no existing visual reference, allowing for unique interpretations. Could this be considered a strength of novel adaptations?
Akira Yamaguchi:
Yes, precisely. When the appearance of a character is not explicitly detailed in the original novel, it is up to the manga artist's imagination. SF novels often rely heavily on the reader's imagination. Just like with movies, seeing how a novel translates into visuals is part of the excitement.
Q: For manga artists, adapting novels can be an opportunity to create without excessive interference, passing on classic works to younger generations.
Akira Yamaguchi:
We aim to reach younger audiences through these adaptations, providing the same surprise and enjoyment as reading the original novel. Many young people find it challenging to read SF novels, but they might be willing to try the manga version. If they find it interesting, they might also read the novel. Broadening the gateway to these classics would be a success for us.
"Solaris" by Stanislaw Lem, manga by Takehito Moriizumi
Q: When considering "SF novels," they often appear to be supported primarily by core fans. However, with these adaptations, you seem to be clearly avoiding catering exclusively to core fans.
Akira Yamaguchi:
If we only cater to our existing customers, it wouldn't lead to business growth. We aim to satisfy core fans while reaching a broader audience, including international readers. The first adaptation, "And Then There Were None," has already had its translation rights sold to six countries.
Q: Are you already prepared for international expansion?
Akira Yamaguchi:
Yes, when talking to publishing professionals abroad, they often mention that their children only read manga. Even a 30-year-old American editor told me he grew up reading manga and loves "Oshi no Ko." Given the global penetration of Japanese manga, we believe that adapting well-known novels into manga could attract readers worldwide.
"Solaris" by Stanislaw Lem, manga by Takehito Moriizumi
"Solaris" by Stanislaw Lem, manga by Takehito Moriizumi
Moriizumi Taketo to Adapt "Solaris" into a Comic: "Successfully Integrating It into His Work"
Q: Could you tell us specifically about Hayakawa Publishing's unique strengths?
Akira Yamaguchi:
Our company motto is "One and Only," and we have maintained an editorial stance that doesn't compete directly with other publishers. This strength is reflected in our adaptations. Other publishers might find it challenging to negotiate rights for adapting foreign classics into manga. Thanks to our long-standing relationships with agents and publishers, we can secure permissions more easily.
Q: That depth of relationship is evident.
Akira Yamaguchi:
Agatha Christie's works, for instance, were also positively received for merchandising, leading to their proactive involvement in the adaptation process. Other rights holders have also begun to approach us for manga adaptations, which could lead to even more interesting projects.
"Comrade Girl, Shoot The Enemy" by Toma Oshiba, manga by Yuki Kamatani, supervised by Rasen Hayami
Q: Fans have also expressed a desire for certain works to be adapted into manga. Are there any notable works that manga artists are eager to adapt?
Akira Yamaguchi:
Many artists want to adapt "Flowers for Algernon." We are keen to do so, and we've been considering who would be the best artist for it.
Q: Perhaps holding a user vote to decide who adapts "Flowers for Algernon" would be interesting?
Akira Yamaguchi:
Having different artists adapt the same original work could also be fascinating. It would be great to deliver these adaptations to global readers through "Hayakomi."
Shelves lined with global masterpieces at Hayakawa Publishing (C) oricon ME inc.
Source : ORICON NEWS