Fuyuki Kanda, a retired concert pianist and widower, has found solace in the company of his beloved cat, Fukumaru. His home has transformed into a makeshift cat rescue center as he cares for five rescue kittens on behalf of his friend, Geoffroy Lambert. In addition to these kittens, there is another rescue cat named ‘Siam’ who has yet to find a permanent home. When Mr. Kanda discovers Fukumaru perched precariously on the curtain rail, he realizes the need for a cat tower to ensure the safety of his furry companion.
Seeking advice on selecting the best cat tower, Mr. Kanda visits a pet shop where he is presented with three distinct options by the helpful Miss Sato. Unable to make a decision, he seeks the opinion of his friend Kobayashi, a dog owner. After consulting with friends and family, Mr. Kanda returns to the pet shop only to find that all three cat towers have been sold. Eventually, a compromise is reached that satisfies Fukumaru, bringing joy to everyone involved.
The narrative then shifts focus to Makoto, a teenager who has been a victim of relentless bullying. Overwhelmed by the lack of support at school and home, Makoto becomes a school refuser. However, his life takes a positive turn when his mother introduces him to an exotic shorthair kitten named Happy. Through caring for Happy and sharing her antics online under the pseudonym ‘Mack’, Makoto rediscovers his passion for playing the guitar. An online interaction with another cat lover, ‘Twinkle Bell’, motivates Makoto to resume practicing and even consider busking. As Makoto prepares to showcase his musical talent, unexpected challenges arise when his former bullies resurface.
Despite its twelfth volume, ‘A Man & His Cat’ continues to captivate readers with its endearing charm and engaging storyline. The manga successfully balances heartwarming moments with feline antics, maintaining a delightful blend of humor and emotion. The inclusion of dedicated chapters showcasing Siam, the Siamese cat, and the intricate dynamics between the characters adds depth to the narrative. Notably, the ongoing subplot involving the formation of a band highlights the complexities of pursuing artistic endeavors.
The translation by Taylor Engel effectively conveys the distinct personalities of the feline characters, while Lys Blakeslee’s lettering enhances the interactive dialogues within the story. Square Enix Manga’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the inclusion of colorful illustrations and bonus content, enriching the reading experience for fans. As the series progresses towards its forthcoming volumes, readers can anticipate further development of existing storylines and the introduction of new narrative arcs.
In conclusion, ‘A Man & His Cat Volume 12’ maintains the high standard set by its predecessors, offering a delightful blend of heartwarming moments and engaging storytelling. With a diverse cast of characters and compelling plotlines, the manga continues to resonate with readers of all ages. As fans eagerly await the release of future installments, the enduring appeal of ‘A Man & His Cat’ remains a testament to its enduring popularity in the realm of manga literature.
