Cat Companions Maruru and Hachi #2

Yuri Sonoda's charming slice-of-life manga continues in volume 2, and the cover alone captures everything that makes this series so endearing — a cheerful little white cat wearing a red bow tie and a stoic black-and-white tuxedo cat huddle together beneath a bright yellow umbrella in the rain, while their human companion watches from just above with a quiet, earnest expression. The contrast between the wide-eyed, smiling white cat and the perpetually grumpy-faced tuxedo cat is utterly delightful, promising plenty of the warm, gentle humor that defines the series. If you're looking for a cozy 2024 read built around the everyday joys of life with cats, this volume is easy to love.