Words Bubble up Like Soda Pop

In this compact three-issue series from Yen Press (2023–2024), a shy teen who expresses himself through haiku and a popular girl hiding her true self behind a mask of social media filters discover an unexpected connection at a suburban shopping mall. Written and illustrated by a creative team known for gentle, slice-of-life manga, the story unfolds through a summer of chance encounters, shared secrets, and the quiet power of words spoken aloud. A warm, visually lyrical tale about the courage to be authentic, it captures the fleeting sweetness of young love and the joy of finding someone who listens.