“Top 10 Must-Read Manga of 2025” Publishers Weekly
“Readers who love shonen action manga but tire of predictable formulas will be thrilled to find this in their stockings.” Publishers Weekly
“It is memorable […] with a unique concept and stunning visuals.” KabOOOOOm
“I found the world-building interesting. The story is paced well. […] I’m looking forward to volume 2! Verdict: Buy It” Behind The Manga
“A fun premise and a story that doesn’t take itself too seriously. […] Itagaki’s signature illustrations evoke the large, expressive, round eyes of Tim Burton’s haunting stop-motion animation.” Booklist
“SANDA Vol. 1 by Paru Itagaki strikes a perfect balance between yuletide trappings and dystopian decline […] to create an engaging first volume that’s perfect for Christmas lovers who’ve lost some of their own innocence.” Anime Atelier
“Most entertaining manga I’ve read in a while.” The Digital Minute
“SANDA is a wonderful read; it is everything that I think a good manga or anime should be.” Daniel MacKeith
“Sanda Vol. 1 is a sensational new-gen manga worth collecting.” CBR
“With a mix of supernatural elements, heartfelt moments, and a nostalgic quest to restore childhood wonder, Sanda Vol. 1 […] blends mystery, adventure, and emotional depth.” CGMagazine
“It’s about as […] zany as you would expect from the very interesting mind of Paru Itagaki.” Anime News Network
“Volume 1 of Sanda is pure Paru Itagaki: raw, experimental, and deeply strange. […] Sanda is a refreshing break from formula, making it a MUST READ.” The Kitsune Network
“The story explodes in more ways than one into a mash-up of the Tom Hanks movie Big and the Wednesday TV series. […] A strange fantasy for older teens that will challenge your view of what makes a Christmas story.” BORG
“SANDA does what Itagaki did so well in BEASTARS. […] It’s classic satire.” Animanga
“The story is funny and fresh.” The Wonder of Anime
“I honestly really enjoyed reading this. […] Paru Itagaki’s art is, as usual, extremely identifiable and expressive. It was an absolute joy to experience.” Grimsabr
“The art style is unique and works so well with this story.” My Wee Reads
“There wasn’t a single time when I was bored with it. Paru Itagaki has created something that feels pretty unique, with some artwork that I find genuinely delightful in how boldly different it is.” Trans Scribe
“Can’t wait to read more of it in print.” Kara Dennison
“I absolutely recommend reading this.” Ginta1jm (TikTok)
“Paru Itagaki is on the nice list with Sanda, and I’m overjoyed to see the Christmas spirit coming this early! Put this on your manga to read list NOW! 5/5” Miso”
“Sanda [is] the gift that keeps on giving, from its insane bordering on psychotic characters, intriguing world building, and hilariously over-the-top interpretation of the Santa Claus mythos. Sanda is everything that we love about manga.” Manga Mavericks
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