AMINE AND MANGA

Nana (ナナ) is a Japanese shōjo manga series written and illustrated by Ai Yazawa, serialized in Cookie published by Shueisha. The manga derives its title from the name of the two main characters, both of whom are called Nana. One comes from a small town and follows her friends and boyfriend to Tokyo with the hope of having the dream life that she wishes for. The other comes to Tokyo with the goal of making it big with her band, Black Stones. The two Nanas meet on a train ride, then later while looking at the same apartment and decide to rent it together. The series chronicles their friendship and their lives as each chases their dreams. The author of the manga is currently sick and still recovering from the sickness. It was reported in late April 2010 that she has returned home from the hospital and that she does not know if or when she will return to work.

Nana is presently being released in North America by Viz Media. It was serialized in the Shojo Beat until the August 2007 issue, and continues to be released in tankōbon volumes. The manga has also been adapted into a highly successful live-action film with a sequel released on December 9, 2006, and an anime adaptation that premiered on April 5, 2006. The anime adaptation has subsequently been announced as licensed for release in North America by Viz Media. Funimation got the broadcast rights to Viz Media's dub and it premiered on the Funimation Channel on September 19, 2009