Manga Powerhouses WIND BREAKER, Witch Hat Atelier Secure Coveted Harvey Awards 2025 Nominations

The esteemed 2025 Harvey Awards, a pinnacle of recognition within the global comics industry, have officially unveiled their highly anticipated list of nominees, casting a significant spotlight on an exceptional array of manga titles. Among the distinguished selections are two colossal names that have captivated audiences worldwide: Satoru Nii's electrifying WIND BREAKER and Kamome Shirahama's enchanting Witch Hat Atelier. These nominations underscore the burgeoning influence and artistic prowess of Japanese manga on the international stage.

WIND BREAKER, published by Kodansha Comics, has carved out a formidable reputation for its pulse-pounding action sequences and a deeply resonant narrative that delves into the exhilarating world of street cycling and the intricate challenges of youth. Satoru Nii's masterful storytelling and dynamic artwork have resonated with a global readership, earning widespread critical acclaim for its unique blend of intensity and character-driven drama.

Equally compelling is Witch Hat Atelier, another gem from Kodansha, crafted by the visionary Kamome Shirahama. This series continues to mesmerize with its breathtakingly imaginative fantasy realm and extraordinarily detailed illustrations. It chronicles the captivating journey of a young girl embarking on her magical education, weaving a rich tapestry of wonder, mystery, and profound character development that has garnered immense praise for its intricate world-building and spellbinding visuals.

The inclusion of these seminal works in the Harvey Awards, an event renowned for honoring excellence across the diverse spectrum of the comics medium, serves as a powerful testament to their profound impact on contemporary manga culture. This recognition not only celebrates the individual brilliance of their creators but also highlights the collaborative synergy of the publishing houses and production teams dedicated to bringing these compelling narratives to eager audiences globally.

Beyond WIND BREAKER and Witch Hat Atelier, the nominee list features other noteworthy manga, including Mokumokuren's intriguing The Summer Hikaru Died, showcasing the incredible genre diversity inherent in today's manga landscape, from gripping fantasy and supernatural thrillers to poignant coming-of-age sagas. The Harvey Awards' embrace of these titles unequivocally signals the ever-growing global appreciation for manga, recognizing its innovative storytelling and artistic ambition.

Anticipation is building among fans and industry professionals alike as the award ceremony approaches, slated to take place during the iconic New York Comic Con in October 2025. Industry experts will cast their votes to determine the winners, culminating in a ceremony that promises to be a vibrant celebration of artistic achievements across the entire comics and manga community. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed during NYCC, offering a worldwide audience the chance to partake in this momentous occasion.