MANGA REVIEW: Viz Manga Releases for May 2025

by Kara Dennison
April 12, 2025

It’s time to start looking ahead to new manga releases! As ever, Viz Manga has some of the biggest names in manga on deck. From Shonen Jump faves to their SuBLime BL line, there’s lots to enjoy this month. Join us as we take a look at three new releases coming in May, and be sure to pre-order your favorites!

Snow Angel Vol. 1

Long ago, Muku and Yuto used to play together in the snow with their siblings. But as young adults, those carefree days are gone. Muku finds herself saddled with her family’s difficulties, living as a young caretaker for her elderly grandfather. But a chance meeting with Yuto could change everything—if she’s brave enough to make it happen. With Yuto’s help, Muku slowly begins breaking free of the guilt her family saddles her with. And as the first volume closes, she makes a decision that could turn her into a villain in her loved ones’ eyes.

Snow Angel may open like a typical shoujo manga, but it quickly changes tone. Muku’s situation is one that many young people unfortunately find themselves in. Forced to comply or be vilified by her family, she’s put her life on hold. Volume 1 alone is an emotional, powerful read that perfectly encapsulates the struggles of family emotional abuse.

Snow Angel Vol. 1 goes on sale May 13.

Spy x Family: The Official Anime Guide—Mission Report: 221001-1224

We can’t get enough of SPY x FAMILY: fortunately, Viz Manga is making sure we’re never lacking! As we await season 3, a huge new anime guide covers all of season 2 and beyond. This guide gives a play-by-play of every episode, the film CODE:WHITE, and so much more. Find out what Bond is thinking in his own section, read interviews with the cast and crew, and get insights into what’s to come.

If you’d prefer to stare at the gorgeous art, though, there’s plenty of that as well! Multiple color art sections compile art from social media, collabs, events, and much more. A collection of production materials lets you admire the show’s storyboard and set design. There’s even a selection of art from Tatsuya Endo’s social media accounts and a run-down of the manga! Combined with the first guide in the series, it’s a must-have for any SPY x FAMILY fan.

Spy x Family: The Official Anime Guide—Mission Report: 221001-1224 goes on sale May 13.

Pink Heart Jam Beat Vol. 1

This new series actually hails from the Viz Manga imprint SuBLime, specializing in BL manga titles. Shikke’s Pink Heart Jam beat is actually a sequel to her previous series, Pink Heart Jam. But you don’t have to have followed the original to dive into this new series. College-grad-to-be Haiga is lamenting his career path, considering working as a music teacher. Fortunately, his boyfriend Kanae is there for him. Literally, the two share an apartment. But Kanae also goes the extra mile to help his boyfriend do what he needs to pursue his new dream. As graduation approaches, Haiga finds himself with new difficulties. What about Kanae’s past love life, for instance? And why does Kanae push himself to the point of exhaustion to be supportive?

Pink Heart Jam beat is an explicit, rated-M title. Whether that’s a deal-maker or a deal-breaker is up to the individual reader. But do bear in mind that there are several “open-door” moments. The art is lovely throughout, and there’s a lot of story to go around. From college and workforce woes to the anxieties of a new relationship, this new title covers them all. If you’re not familiar with Shikke’s work already, this may convince you to explore more.

Pink Heart Jam beat Vol. 1 goes on sale May 13.