Did you know that The Apothecary Diaries has not one, but two manga adaptations? Find out everything about The Apothecary Diaries' two manga versions, including their similarities and differences below.
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The Apothecary Diaries' Two Manga Versions Explained
The Apothecary Diaries is originally based on a light novel. The series by Natsu Hyuuga is so beloved that two manga adaptations were released within a few years.
The first and best-known manga adaptation is being written by Itsuki Nanao and illustrated by Nekokurage (Soushoku-kei Danshi). It has been officially serialized since 2017 via Square Enix.
Following the manga's success, another alternative manga series began serialization in 2019.
This one is illustrated by Minoji Kurata (Shosei Katsuragi Shinjirou no Nichijou and Assassin's Creed: China).
It is known as The Apothecary Diaries: The Palace Cloister Mystery-Solving Notebook of Mao Mao.
How Are the Two Apothecary Diaries Manga Versions Similar?
The two manga versions of The Apothecary Diaries essentially narrate the same story.
Both follow Maomao, an adorable, spirited, and pragmatic apothecary who gets kidnapped and sent to the Imperial Palace as an indentured servant.
While Maomao tries to lie low, her talent for preparing medicine, detecting poisons, and solving medical mysteries is discovered, and she becomes a poison taster for a high-ranking concubine.
Most basic plot points are covered in both manga, and the characters are essentially the same.
This means that you don't have to read both to get the most out of the story, but of course, you may choose to!
Major Differences Between The Apothecary Diaries' Two Manga Versions
It wouldn't make sense for The Apothecary Diaries to have two manga versions if they didn't have some differences.
Nekokurage's manga is the only one with an official translation so far. Its art style is a bit more detailed and polished, while the second adaptation has chosen a slightly more fluid style.
Although both cover the same main plot, there are still some differences in terms of their pacing and content.
For instance, the second, more recent adaptation by Minoji Kurata is slightly more faithful to The Apothecary Diaries light novel.
Therefore, if you're a fan of the light novel, it might appeal to you. However, some readers have found it a bit too slow.
On the other hand, the first manga by Nekokurage is considered to have a better pace.
Fans find Nekokurage's manga more concise and enjoy the way it fleshes out character interactions with more dialogue and scenes.
At the end of the day, it's up to you to decide which manga version to enjoy.
The Apothecary Diaries anime is now streaming on Crunchyroll.
Discover more of our insights and the latest anime news by following us on Twitter @epicstreamanime.
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