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Shugo Chara! Jewel Joker 1
176 pages, Paperback
Published March 3, 2026
About the author
Peach-Pit
209 books279 followersPeach-Pit (ピーチ・ピット Pīchi Pitto) is a female manga artist duo in Japan, made up of Banri Sendo (千道 万里 Sendō Banri) and Shibuko Ebara (えばら 渋子 Ebara Shibuko). Their group name derives from the diner hangout Peach-Pit from the TV show Beverly Hills, 90210. Although both have similar styles, with some artwork it is possible to identify which artist drew it. Both are known for their bishōjo styled works. As noted in their books, they are both Geminis and have "Almost flushed our phones down the toilet...twice."
The two of them grew up together and went to the same elementary school and have been best friends ever since. Both started as doujinshi manga artists, but not as Peach-Pit. Then they were scouted by Dengeki Comic Gao!. In 2008, one of their manga, Shugo Chara!, was awarded the Kodansha Manga Award for best children's manga. Shugo Chara was also turned later into an Anime television series.
The two of them grew up together and went to the same elementary school and have been best friends ever since. Both started as doujinshi manga artists, but not as Peach-Pit. Then they were scouted by Dengeki Comic Gao!. In 2008, one of their manga, Shugo Chara!, was awarded the Kodansha Manga Award for best children's manga. Shugo Chara was also turned later into an Anime television series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 30, 2026
4.5/5 stars
In this new ARC, we are still following our girl Amu, but with a new mission: transferring to Arcana Academy, and find out the mystery behind the new X eggs and the Arcana Jewels! Meet new characters (also a new love interest), suspicious teaching methods and a game that might change how things go in this school! How will Amu be able to handle all of this and complete her secret mission?
I have to be honest and say I wanted to read this after finishing the rest of Shugo Chara, however I couldn't hold myself back and I am glad I did anyway! Although it would be important to read the OG series before getting into this one to understand the characters and the idea behind the magic system, this could also almost perfectly read on its own too. I will soon get back to finishing the original, and for sure going to tune in for the rest of this series!
Thank you to Kodansha Comics and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
In this new ARC, we are still following our girl Amu, but with a new mission: transferring to Arcana Academy, and find out the mystery behind the new X eggs and the Arcana Jewels! Meet new characters (also a new love interest), suspicious teaching methods and a game that might change how things go in this school! How will Amu be able to handle all of this and complete her secret mission?
I have to be honest and say I wanted to read this after finishing the rest of Shugo Chara, however I couldn't hold myself back and I am glad I did anyway! Although it would be important to read the OG series before getting into this one to understand the characters and the idea behind the magic system, this could also almost perfectly read on its own too. I will soon get back to finishing the original, and for sure going to tune in for the rest of this series!
Thank you to Kodansha Comics and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 17, 2026
Being a sequel series to a recent classic of Shugo Chara!, it takes our protagonist, Amu, to middle school and sends her on a brand new adventure! I really enjoyed returning to familiar characters, with a story fitting the aged up characters. Dare I say I enjoyed it a bit more than the original manga?!
Without spoiling the original manga, Amu is sent on a mission to a very unique school and they have to figure out why X eggs unable to be cleansed are showing up. The storyline is more focused this time around, with better pacing and any side trips prove to be important to character development and the narrative. We have a battle right in the first few chapters. I do like how the world building is expanded and used in the new location, and it made me think about aspects of the world that the original did not touch on, especially toward the end of the volume. I also like some of the modern updates like cell phones for the characters.
The characters were more enjoyable, but that might be partly due to their development over the original manga, and being slightly older, as well as having to adjust to a new locale. I especially loved some of the new additions, especially seeing a twist near the end of the volume in the way it played out.
The artwork was great, and even in the 2020’s, Peach-Pit still has it and Amu is still her goth style and it’s updated in a way that’s not too jarring or divergent from the original manga. The art doesn’t diverge too much from the original manga, making a good continuation. The character designs were great and the art was easy to look at. The emotions were very clear and expressive, making the story easy to follow.
Unlike the original manga, this has a certain audience in that preteen sector as well as for fans of the original manga. I would recommend reading at least the first ten chapters of the original Shugo Chara! first so you’re not lost.
*I received an ARC from Netgalley and Kodansha USA. All opinions are my own.*
Without spoiling the original manga, Amu is sent on a mission to a very unique school and they have to figure out why X eggs unable to be cleansed are showing up. The storyline is more focused this time around, with better pacing and any side trips prove to be important to character development and the narrative. We have a battle right in the first few chapters. I do like how the world building is expanded and used in the new location, and it made me think about aspects of the world that the original did not touch on, especially toward the end of the volume. I also like some of the modern updates like cell phones for the characters.
The characters were more enjoyable, but that might be partly due to their development over the original manga, and being slightly older, as well as having to adjust to a new locale. I especially loved some of the new additions, especially seeing a twist near the end of the volume in the way it played out.
The artwork was great, and even in the 2020’s, Peach-Pit still has it and Amu is still her goth style and it’s updated in a way that’s not too jarring or divergent from the original manga. The art doesn’t diverge too much from the original manga, making a good continuation. The character designs were great and the art was easy to look at. The emotions were very clear and expressive, making the story easy to follow.
Unlike the original manga, this has a certain audience in that preteen sector as well as for fans of the original manga. I would recommend reading at least the first ten chapters of the original Shugo Chara! first so you’re not lost.
*I received an ARC from Netgalley and Kodansha USA. All opinions are my own.*
March 4, 2026
It is with great trepidation and mixed feelings that I must declare— Jewel Joker is pretty good.
When I read the first chapter when it came out over a year ago now I was not impressed. It seemed the reset button had been hit on the characters, Amu was back to being disconnected from her peers and fawning over Tadase, despite character arcs in the original manga that resolved both of these concepts. On top of that she was being sent to a new school, away from her friends, with a new cat boy. It felt like we were primed to retred the same steps all over again, making the conclusions of the original story pointless.
However, while these are still definitely issues to me, Jewel Joker is not in fact doing the same thing over again. It has its own ideas, own characters, own themes, and I'm honestly excited about all of them. The themes introduced in this first volume feel like they built organically off the ones introduced in the original story. Shugo Chara is about finding the person you want to be and what it means to be yourself, Jewel Joker is asking how that self fits into the expectations of others around you and larger society.
It's taking a premise I wrote off as stupid in the first chapter, a school for guardian character holders, and is making something incredibly interesting.
Overall, really good stuff, I'm so happy this isn't another Clear Card.
When I read the first chapter when it came out over a year ago now I was not impressed. It seemed the reset button had been hit on the characters, Amu was back to being disconnected from her peers and fawning over Tadase, despite character arcs in the original manga that resolved both of these concepts. On top of that she was being sent to a new school, away from her friends, with a new cat boy. It felt like we were primed to retred the same steps all over again, making the conclusions of the original story pointless.
However, while these are still definitely issues to me, Jewel Joker is not in fact doing the same thing over again. It has its own ideas, own characters, own themes, and I'm honestly excited about all of them. The themes introduced in this first volume feel like they built organically off the ones introduced in the original story. Shugo Chara is about finding the person you want to be and what it means to be yourself, Jewel Joker is asking how that self fits into the expectations of others around you and larger society.
It's taking a premise I wrote off as stupid in the first chapter, a school for guardian character holders, and is making something incredibly interesting.
Overall, really good stuff, I'm so happy this isn't another Clear Card.
March 2, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha for the e-arc
I have to say, after recently wrapping up my first read through of the OG Shugo Chara, I was a bit skeptical that a sequel series was needed, or would even be good at all... but wow, Peach-Pit have really outdone themselves here!
Let's start with the art. There's definitely some modern touches added, like smartphones and the like, and the art itself is a bit sleeker and cleaner, no doubt from the use of digital art pads. It all looks very high quality and professional (which is it), but the mangakas still managed to keep in tune with the classic vibe and aesthetic that the OG series had. Going from one to the other isn't really jarring at all. It flows pretty well. There are some great additions, though! Not only do we get cute new uniforms for Amu and Tadase, but we also get a new transformation outfit!!! It's quite beautiful too!
Next up, the new characters. We do get to see the classic group, too, but most of this first volume introduced us to a new cast of capital "C" characters because they're all quite out there and unique (very similar to how wacky the OGs are). Without spoiling any of them, I'll just give a few little tidbits, like how we have a set of twins, a mean rival for Amu, and even a cute new cat-boy!
And lastly, the story. This was by far the biggest surprise and the best part. I was admittedly a bit worried that we'd just resume the storyline and dynamics from the previous series, but with Amu and her friends in junior high now. And while we obviously do have Amu in junior high, she's actually at a completely new school with a different (but similar) mission. I love that we have such a major switch up like that! Amu is a fish out of water at Arcana Academy, constantly confused by all of the new rules and the strange students. I'm also a big fan of the mysterious nature of the school. No hate towards the story of the previous series, but it was pretty basic, and we knew who the villains were the whole time. We have zero clue what is up with this new academy and why they have these odd eggs, it's exciting.
Overall, I'm very happy with this new series! I hope that the next volumes are just as good, because I can't wait to read them!!!
I have to say, after recently wrapping up my first read through of the OG Shugo Chara, I was a bit skeptical that a sequel series was needed, or would even be good at all... but wow, Peach-Pit have really outdone themselves here!
Let's start with the art. There's definitely some modern touches added, like smartphones and the like, and the art itself is a bit sleeker and cleaner, no doubt from the use of digital art pads. It all looks very high quality and professional (which is it), but the mangakas still managed to keep in tune with the classic vibe and aesthetic that the OG series had. Going from one to the other isn't really jarring at all. It flows pretty well. There are some great additions, though! Not only do we get cute new uniforms for Amu and Tadase, but we also get a new transformation outfit!!! It's quite beautiful too!
Next up, the new characters. We do get to see the classic group, too, but most of this first volume introduced us to a new cast of capital "C" characters because they're all quite out there and unique (very similar to how wacky the OGs are). Without spoiling any of them, I'll just give a few little tidbits, like how we have a set of twins, a mean rival for Amu, and even a cute new cat-boy!
And lastly, the story. This was by far the biggest surprise and the best part. I was admittedly a bit worried that we'd just resume the storyline and dynamics from the previous series, but with Amu and her friends in junior high now. And while we obviously do have Amu in junior high, she's actually at a completely new school with a different (but similar) mission. I love that we have such a major switch up like that! Amu is a fish out of water at Arcana Academy, constantly confused by all of the new rules and the strange students. I'm also a big fan of the mysterious nature of the school. No hate towards the story of the previous series, but it was pretty basic, and we knew who the villains were the whole time. We have zero clue what is up with this new academy and why they have these odd eggs, it's exciting.
Overall, I'm very happy with this new series! I hope that the next volumes are just as good, because I can't wait to read them!!!
April 15, 2026
Ahhhhhh a brand new era of Shugo Chara emerges!!! I’m so excited to see how this goes! The story so far is amazing (i recommend reading after the main series though as there are some spoilers if you read this first!)
I adore Amu and her guardians so much and can’t wait to see what comes next!
Thanks to NetGalley for the early copy
I adore Amu and her guardians so much and can’t wait to see what comes next!
Thanks to NetGalley for the early copy
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Kodansha and Netgalley for the eARC!
5/5
OMG! I’m so happy to return to the world of Shugo Chara! I was OBSESSED when I was younger (when it was first coming out) and I remember watching the show as well! The characters are drawn just as wonderfully as usual! I guess I need to go back and re-read the original series again because I remember all of Amu’s charas "going to sleep”(?) at the end of the original, but now all 4 of them are awake and still active?
After doing some research, I didn’t realize that there was a 1 volume sequel in which Amu’s guardians wake up. Which is why they are awake in this one lol.
The story moves quickly, Amu and Tadase are transferred to a new school that focuses on “giving” students guardian eggs and making those eggs hatch in a way to “serve” society. All the eggs that the students have though are Arcana Academy (the school's name) branded. The students are given the eggs, they don’t seem to be born from their hearts (which is not how it’s supposed to happen). There are some fancy Arcana jewels that Amu needs to find (which she does in this volume) but the Director doesn’t tell us why Amu needs to find them.
The story is kind of convoluted and moves so fast that things seem skipped/aren’t explained well (typical tbh), but there’s no time to be bored with things happening quickly! This won’t be a mystery for long! I’m wondering how long this series will be (it seems that there are at least 4 volumes in Japan) and I’m looking forward to Amu “solving” the mystery. I think Amu will be helping the other characters find their guardian eggs and get rid of the Arcana eggs. One had hatched to “Rossetta” then became an X-egg that Amu healed After being healed she revealed herself to be completely different from who the “owner” believed it to be (the guardian’s name was actually Annabelle). Then the guardian says “I can’t be with you anymore” and the eggs just disappears!
Old characters make appearances and seem like they’ll be important in future chapters/volumes. Honestly, I’m looking forward to continuing the series! Sure it’s a little fast paced and not everything is explained well, but you can just enjoy the cute outfits and characters and revel in the sweet nostalgia of coming back to the Shugo Chara world!
5/5
OMG! I’m so happy to return to the world of Shugo Chara! I was OBSESSED when I was younger (when it was first coming out) and I remember watching the show as well! The characters are drawn just as wonderfully as usual! I guess I need to go back and re-read the original series again because I remember all of Amu’s charas "going to sleep”(?) at the end of the original, but now all 4 of them are awake and still active?
After doing some research, I didn’t realize that there was a 1 volume sequel in which Amu’s guardians wake up. Which is why they are awake in this one lol.
The story moves quickly, Amu and Tadase are transferred to a new school that focuses on “giving” students guardian eggs and making those eggs hatch in a way to “serve” society. All the eggs that the students have though are Arcana Academy (the school's name) branded. The students are given the eggs, they don’t seem to be born from their hearts (which is not how it’s supposed to happen). There are some fancy Arcana jewels that Amu needs to find (which she does in this volume) but the Director doesn’t tell us why Amu needs to find them.
The story is kind of convoluted and moves so fast that things seem skipped/aren’t explained well (typical tbh), but there’s no time to be bored with things happening quickly! This won’t be a mystery for long! I’m wondering how long this series will be (it seems that there are at least 4 volumes in Japan) and I’m looking forward to Amu “solving” the mystery. I think Amu will be helping the other characters find their guardian eggs and get rid of the Arcana eggs. One had hatched to “Rossetta” then became an X-egg that Amu healed After being healed she revealed herself to be completely different from who the “owner” believed it to be (the guardian’s name was actually Annabelle). Then the guardian says “I can’t be with you anymore” and the eggs just disappears!
Old characters make appearances and seem like they’ll be important in future chapters/volumes. Honestly, I’m looking forward to continuing the series! Sure it’s a little fast paced and not everything is explained well, but you can just enjoy the cute outfits and characters and revel in the sweet nostalgia of coming back to the Shugo Chara world!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amu has moved onto middle school and while she's nervous she knows she'll have her friends from The Guardians with her. Or so she thought just as she was preparing for her new year the Headmaster takes her and Tadase aside to let them know that instead of going to Seiyo Academy's Middle School they will be attending Arcana Academy, Seiyo's sister school on a secret mission. Arcana Academy has an alarming number of X Eggs and it's up to the Guardian's Joker and their King to find out why. Almost as soon as she arrives Amu realizes something is off about Arcana, first of all every student as a Guardian Egg and that simply shouldn't be possible, but they all look the same. It doesn't take long for Amu and Tadase to realize that this mission may be their toughest yet!
This is a big year for Shugo Chara! Fans!! Not only are we getting a 20th Anniversary edition of the original series but Peach-Pit has brought out a brand new series! With new characters and our old favorites! Not to mention a mystery to solve at Arcana Academy!
This was a ton of fun! For those who have read the original series once Amu arrives at Arcana Academy you'll see what I mean when I say everything feels way off in terms of the Guardian Characters. Every student has one and let me tell you they aren't very nice to them. Erito especially who is the dorm leader for the Diamond Dorm where Amu will reside and Amu's self-proclaimed rival, is not just mean to her Guardian Character Rosetta but pretty obnoxious.
Now, after reading this and what happens with an X Egg in the end of this volume, I have my theories about what exactly is going on at this school, but it's early days in the series so I'm not going to throw it out there just yet.
The big question is do you have to read the original to enjoy this one? I'm going to say no. Peach-Pit does a pretty good job of working what you need to know from the OG into this volume so it's not necessary, however, since the first volume of the 20th anniversary edition drops on the same day there's no reason not to read them both if you haven't!
I'll definitely be following this new series!
As always thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for the eArc!
This is a big year for Shugo Chara! Fans!! Not only are we getting a 20th Anniversary edition of the original series but Peach-Pit has brought out a brand new series! With new characters and our old favorites! Not to mention a mystery to solve at Arcana Academy!
This was a ton of fun! For those who have read the original series once Amu arrives at Arcana Academy you'll see what I mean when I say everything feels way off in terms of the Guardian Characters. Every student has one and let me tell you they aren't very nice to them. Erito especially who is the dorm leader for the Diamond Dorm where Amu will reside and Amu's self-proclaimed rival, is not just mean to her Guardian Character Rosetta but pretty obnoxious.
Now, after reading this and what happens with an X Egg in the end of this volume, I have my theories about what exactly is going on at this school, but it's early days in the series so I'm not going to throw it out there just yet.
The big question is do you have to read the original to enjoy this one? I'm going to say no. Peach-Pit does a pretty good job of working what you need to know from the OG into this volume so it's not necessary, however, since the first volume of the 20th anniversary edition drops on the same day there's no reason not to read them both if you haven't!
I'll definitely be following this new series!
As always thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for the eArc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Pre-teen Manga | Magical Girl | Slice of Life
Thank you to Kodansha Comics for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Shugo Chara! Jewel Joker, Vol. 1 expands on the magical world of Amu Hinamori, even for readers who haven’t read the original series you can start here because it mentions everything from the original. In this universe it continues with every child possesses an egg in their heart that represents their dreams and true self, disappearing as they grow up. When hope is lost, an “X” can appear on the egg, and if a guardian character harbors hate, it transforms into an X character, setting up the guardians’ role in purifying negativity.
Amu continues to grapple with her internal conflict: outwardly seen as cool and sophisticated, she secretly longs to be cute, expressive, and true to herself. This volume is more clear at explaining the mechanics of the eggs and guardians, making it easy to dive into the story without prior knowledge.
The narrative follows Amu on a special assignment to Arcana Academy, a training academy where she helps students restore hope and guides them through discovering their guardian characters. Along the way, she makes new friends.
Overall it's about a child on a magical girl adventure. It’s a story designed for children. There are some scenes where there's jokes from one character who keeps talking about boyfriend and girlfriend, and up close face touching. But, other than that, the series isn't romantic so far(which is good being for kids), and focuses on outfit changes as well as the hunt for eggs. Personally I liked Magica Madoka better at how they handle magical girls and eggs, but this story is more lighthearted and playful.
Thank you to Kodansha Comics for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Shugo Chara! Jewel Joker, Vol. 1 expands on the magical world of Amu Hinamori, even for readers who haven’t read the original series you can start here because it mentions everything from the original. In this universe it continues with every child possesses an egg in their heart that represents their dreams and true self, disappearing as they grow up. When hope is lost, an “X” can appear on the egg, and if a guardian character harbors hate, it transforms into an X character, setting up the guardians’ role in purifying negativity.
Amu continues to grapple with her internal conflict: outwardly seen as cool and sophisticated, she secretly longs to be cute, expressive, and true to herself. This volume is more clear at explaining the mechanics of the eggs and guardians, making it easy to dive into the story without prior knowledge.
The narrative follows Amu on a special assignment to Arcana Academy, a training academy where she helps students restore hope and guides them through discovering their guardian characters. Along the way, she makes new friends.
Overall it's about a child on a magical girl adventure. It’s a story designed for children. There are some scenes where there's jokes from one character who keeps talking about boyfriend and girlfriend, and up close face touching. But, other than that, the series isn't romantic so far(which is good being for kids), and focuses on outfit changes as well as the hunt for eggs. Personally I liked Magica Madoka better at how they handle magical girls and eggs, but this story is more lighthearted and playful.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you so much to NetGalley for getting me access to this before release!
Shugo Chara first released when I was in middle school myself, just a few years older than Amu. I was in a bad place in my life and this series etched itself into my soul. I may have never met my guardian chara but I think of who they would be quite often.
If that alone wasn't obvious enough to say I was crying with excitement when I found out there was going to be a sequel, I don't know how much more I could possibly explain it. The first part of the book was spent reintroducing the characters and it was so nostalgic to see them all again picking up basically where we had left off. This is where my only real gripe comes in. One of the new characters introduced is a streamer. All of the characters suddenly have smart phones honestly took me out of the plot. That being said, the plot itself is super interesting and learning more about the mystery and what's going on still had me continuing forward.
The new streamer character also hit a nerve with me for another, more stupid reason. He has a cat motif. While I've been on the fence about the age gap between Amu and Ikuto, the appearance of this new, kind of similar, character immediately had me not only jump off the fence, but also fully board the original ship. Still, these are only the first five chapters and I'm very open to changing my mind. I know this one hasn't even released yet but I'm already so excited for the second volume.
Also, random side note, apparently I never looked up Peach-Pit's other works before and discovered they also wrote Rozen Maiden. Another 10/10 for me loved it as a kid and now I want to read it again.
Shugo Chara first released when I was in middle school myself, just a few years older than Amu. I was in a bad place in my life and this series etched itself into my soul. I may have never met my guardian chara but I think of who they would be quite often.
If that alone wasn't obvious enough to say I was crying with excitement when I found out there was going to be a sequel, I don't know how much more I could possibly explain it. The first part of the book was spent reintroducing the characters and it was so nostalgic to see them all again picking up basically where we had left off. This is where my only real gripe comes in. One of the new characters introduced is a streamer. All of the characters suddenly have smart phones honestly took me out of the plot. That being said, the plot itself is super interesting and learning more about the mystery and what's going on still had me continuing forward.
The new streamer character also hit a nerve with me for another, more stupid reason. He has a cat motif. While I've been on the fence about the age gap between Amu and Ikuto, the appearance of this new, kind of similar, character immediately had me not only jump off the fence, but also fully board the original ship. Still, these are only the first five chapters and I'm very open to changing my mind. I know this one hasn't even released yet but I'm already so excited for the second volume.
Also, random side note, apparently I never looked up Peach-Pit's other works before and discovered they also wrote Rozen Maiden. Another 10/10 for me loved it as a kid and now I want to read it again.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for letting me read the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
We are so back. Shugo Chara is my all time favorite manga series so seeing this world come back made me soooo happy. Amu you are so loved.
The plot of this is really fun. Amu is growing up and going to junior high now, believing she will be classmates with Rima. However, Amu and Tadase are sent on a secret-ish mission to heal X-Eggs to discover there's more to this academy and they need to get to the bottom of it. I do think they should have eased more into revealing everything, it did feel a bit rush but not that much.
I honestly think Tadasa is at his best her than he was in all of the older manga, or maybe it's just been forever since I read it. Seeing all the characters again just made me feel so giddy. Amu is such a fun main female protagonist, I actually like her conflicts from the old manga are still here. And her fashion sense is still great as ever.
Not to keen on some of the side characters, they feel very one note which I didn't feel with the likes of Utah or Rima back then, but it is also only one volume. I'm sure these new characters will grow on me.
I love the tiny bits of romance added in here, Ikuto is still my favorite for her. I hope he plays a huge role in this series!
Overall, I will be keeping up and reading this series as it releases. Peach-Pit thank you for bringing my favorite series back!
We are so back. Shugo Chara is my all time favorite manga series so seeing this world come back made me soooo happy. Amu you are so loved.
The plot of this is really fun. Amu is growing up and going to junior high now, believing she will be classmates with Rima. However, Amu and Tadase are sent on a secret-ish mission to heal X-Eggs to discover there's more to this academy and they need to get to the bottom of it. I do think they should have eased more into revealing everything, it did feel a bit rush but not that much.
I honestly think Tadasa is at his best her than he was in all of the older manga, or maybe it's just been forever since I read it. Seeing all the characters again just made me feel so giddy. Amu is such a fun main female protagonist, I actually like her conflicts from the old manga are still here. And her fashion sense is still great as ever.
Not to keen on some of the side characters, they feel very one note which I didn't feel with the likes of Utah or Rima back then, but it is also only one volume. I'm sure these new characters will grow on me.
I love the tiny bits of romance added in here, Ikuto is still my favorite for her. I hope he plays a huge role in this series!
Overall, I will be keeping up and reading this series as it releases. Peach-Pit thank you for bringing my favorite series back!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I came to this manga through the anime series and I enjoyed it thoroughly. And I was well beyond young adult age by that point. I haven't read all of the manga but liked what I did read. It was good to return to this world and see what the gang is up to now. I was concerned that it would lose something essential along the way, but I found it was still a great deal of fun. The main change is the presence of the modern technology, but the rest seems as good as it was before. When we meet up with Amu, she is on the verge of moving from elementary school to middle school with all the change and excitement that comes along with that shift. She and Tadase are sent on a special mission to another school before the shift and it's quite a change from where they are now. Just like in the earlier series, there are mysteries to solve, and I imagine this will drive the series in a good way for a while. While this manga is aimed at middle school and young adult, it is perfectly enjoyable for adults like me and is never dumbed down to reach the younger target. This was a great read and I recommend it highly. I look forward to reading more of the series and maybe even see a new series to follow on from the previous anime.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kondansha for giving me a free advanced reader copy. I have provided my feedback voluntarily.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kondansha for giving me a free advanced reader copy. I have provided my feedback voluntarily.
March 6, 2026
*Actual rating: 3.5
Thanks to Peach-Pit, Kodansha, and Netgalley for a complimentary e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is the unexpected sequel to the popular Shugo Chara! series - certainly not something I thought was going to happen after the series first started twenty years go. Taking place directly after the events of the first series, we follow our contrary protagonist Amu, as she is tasked with acting as an exchange student at an unusual school.
The art is as gorgeous as ever, and I really enjoyed seeing the characters again, but the new cast introduced wasn't quite as memorable unfortunately. I did like the addition of a new potential romantic lead, and I thought they were the most interesting and vivid of the new cast, but the other characters were somewhat lacking so far in this first volume. I do like that we are seeing a slightly older Amu now, but this volume didn't really focus on her much which was a shame.
Overall, a cute return to the series with a great concept and some intriguing mystery, but so far at least it doesn't quite sparkle as much as the original series. One I would probably follow along with though to see how it carries on!
Thanks to Peach-Pit, Kodansha, and Netgalley for a complimentary e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is the unexpected sequel to the popular Shugo Chara! series - certainly not something I thought was going to happen after the series first started twenty years go. Taking place directly after the events of the first series, we follow our contrary protagonist Amu, as she is tasked with acting as an exchange student at an unusual school.
The art is as gorgeous as ever, and I really enjoyed seeing the characters again, but the new cast introduced wasn't quite as memorable unfortunately. I did like the addition of a new potential romantic lead, and I thought they were the most interesting and vivid of the new cast, but the other characters were somewhat lacking so far in this first volume. I do like that we are seeing a slightly older Amu now, but this volume didn't really focus on her much which was a shame.
Overall, a cute return to the series with a great concept and some intriguing mystery, but so far at least it doesn't quite sparkle as much as the original series. One I would probably follow along with though to see how it carries on!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*Thank you Kodansha and Netgalley for a DRC copy of this book*
This was a fun re-introduction into the world of Shugo Chara. I've been a bit skeptical of the boom in shoujo manga spin-offs (yashahime, mermaid melody, etc.), so it's great to see a spin-off that not only stays true to the original series, but also brings something new and exciting to the read.
The first volume of Jewel Joker follows the ending of the original manga. Amu has graduated from Seiyo Academy, but instead of advancing to Seiyo's Junior High division, the school Director (Tsukasa), tasks Amu and Tadase (former class pres) to transfer to their sister school, Arcana Academy, to act as Gaurdians, purifying the X's appearing on their students heart eggs. In transferring, Amu and Tadase learn quickly how the schools operate differently, and through this realization, they set off on a new adventure to uncover the secrets Arcana Academy holds.
If you are a fan of Shugo Chara, I would most definitely give this series a try!
This was a fun re-introduction into the world of Shugo Chara. I've been a bit skeptical of the boom in shoujo manga spin-offs (yashahime, mermaid melody, etc.), so it's great to see a spin-off that not only stays true to the original series, but also brings something new and exciting to the read.
The first volume of Jewel Joker follows the ending of the original manga. Amu has graduated from Seiyo Academy, but instead of advancing to Seiyo's Junior High division, the school Director (Tsukasa), tasks Amu and Tadase (former class pres) to transfer to their sister school, Arcana Academy, to act as Gaurdians, purifying the X's appearing on their students heart eggs. In transferring, Amu and Tadase learn quickly how the schools operate differently, and through this realization, they set off on a new adventure to uncover the secrets Arcana Academy holds.
If you are a fan of Shugo Chara, I would most definitely give this series a try!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I liked the Shugo Chara Jewel Joker manga! I like that they rehash some of the stuff from in the main series so it made it really easy to get back into this world. I loved our characters, I think Amu makes for a nice main character and I absolutely adore her guardian characters. I’m happy with the introduction of these new characters and I’m pleased that some of my favorite characters have made it into this sequel! I’m very intrigued by the whole mystery of Arcana academy and I’m very curious to learn more about what is all going on here. Overall, I’m enjoying the new scenery of Arcana academy and I’m loving the whole egg/guardian character thing. The character transformations and the whole magical girl kind of aspects are some of my favorite bits from this manga. I also love that there is some romance hinted/teased, it isn’t the focus of the book but I definitely have a favorite I’d love Amu to end up with. This manga ended on a bit of a cliffhanger that has me excited to see what happens next, I feel some drama coming! Thank you to the publisher for my complimentary review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In this world, every child has a character egg in their hearts where their true character hatches. Not everyone experiences it though, and the eggs and characters, tiny versions of the person, go away when they grow up.
The main character, Amu, has four characters instead of the usual one. She starts middle school, but instead of going to her familiar school, she is transferred to a special boarding school where everyone knows they have a character egg. Amu is a guardian (it’s not explained how or why) and the school has a guardian related trouble she needs to solve.
This is a follow-up to the original Shugo Chara. I haven’t read it, but I think this would’ve been confusing even if I had. The story was all over the place and I had no idea what was happening half the time. It didn’t help that the characters looked similar and also changed appearances with their character changes, so I didn’t know who is who half the time. But nneither did Amu, so I guess it’s all right. I won’t be continuing though.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The main character, Amu, has four characters instead of the usual one. She starts middle school, but instead of going to her familiar school, she is transferred to a special boarding school where everyone knows they have a character egg. Amu is a guardian (it’s not explained how or why) and the school has a guardian related trouble she needs to solve.
This is a follow-up to the original Shugo Chara. I haven’t read it, but I think this would’ve been confusing even if I had. The story was all over the place and I had no idea what was happening half the time. It didn’t help that the characters looked similar and also changed appearances with their character changes, so I didn’t know who is who half the time. But nneither did Amu, so I guess it’s all right. I won’t be continuing though.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy for this manga!
Oh my goodness, the nostalgia of reading this!!
We’re picking up where the original manga left off. Amu has started middle school and is ready for a new year at Seiyo Academy…or so she thought. Her days as the Guardians Joker aren’t over yet!
Amu’s new mission is to attend Arcana Academy, sister school to Seiyo, where all students have Chara eggs but something’s off…in a world where all characters are unique, why do all the students eggs look the same? Why haven’t they hatched? And why do they all have the schools emblem?
As always, volume 1 delves into the first 4 chapters, where we have enough information to understand where this new story will take us. With introduction of each new character, the story unfolds and teases us with the reality of the students at Arcana Academy and the mystery behind the Arcana Jewels.
The only reason is say this is a 4/5 is that it currently feels like a bit of a rinse and repeat from the original story line but I’d be happy to be proven wrong!
Oh my goodness, the nostalgia of reading this!!
We’re picking up where the original manga left off. Amu has started middle school and is ready for a new year at Seiyo Academy…or so she thought. Her days as the Guardians Joker aren’t over yet!
Amu’s new mission is to attend Arcana Academy, sister school to Seiyo, where all students have Chara eggs but something’s off…in a world where all characters are unique, why do all the students eggs look the same? Why haven’t they hatched? And why do they all have the schools emblem?
As always, volume 1 delves into the first 4 chapters, where we have enough information to understand where this new story will take us. With introduction of each new character, the story unfolds and teases us with the reality of the students at Arcana Academy and the mystery behind the Arcana Jewels.
The only reason is say this is a 4/5 is that it currently feels like a bit of a rinse and repeat from the original story line but I’d be happy to be proven wrong!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Going into Shugo Chara! Jewel Joker Vol. 1, I was mostly here for the nostalgia. Shugo Chara! was one of my favorite manga and animes when I was a kid—and while it was fun slipping back into Amu’s world, I definitely think I’ve outgrown this series a bit.
Amu starting middle school and heading to Arcana Academy is a cute setup, and I liked the mystery around the Arcana Jewels and the strange Guardian Eggs. The story does a decent job explaining the basics, so newcomers could jump in, but longtime fans will get more out of it.
That said, the pacing feels rushed, the tone is very young, and some of the characters come off one-note. It’s light, sparkly, and full of classic magical-girl vibes—but it didn’t fully pull me in.
Overall, this was a fun, quick read with strong nostalgic charm… just not something I’m as emotionally invested in anymore. Solid three stars for childhood memories alone.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Amu starting middle school and heading to Arcana Academy is a cute setup, and I liked the mystery around the Arcana Jewels and the strange Guardian Eggs. The story does a decent job explaining the basics, so newcomers could jump in, but longtime fans will get more out of it.
That said, the pacing feels rushed, the tone is very young, and some of the characters come off one-note. It’s light, sparkly, and full of classic magical-girl vibes—but it didn’t fully pull me in.
Overall, this was a fun, quick read with strong nostalgic charm… just not something I’m as emotionally invested in anymore. Solid three stars for childhood memories alone.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha for the ARC.
What a trip down memory lane. Starting off, this was so exciting to get into as a continuation from the previous manga series. I was so excited to see where we were going to go story wise, and it did a great job kind of recapping everything that happened and touching on where the characters were if they weren't there physically. As it went on though, and maybe it's because I've grown up since reading the series the first time, but it was a little hard to keep suspending disbelief and just following the story as things keep happening and Amu just doesn't know what's going on. I'm very interested in the mystery revolving around Arcana Academy, especially with Amu and her abilities, but the way it started off felt more like "these things just need to happen" and not really offering a way for it to make much sense, even in a hand-wavy way. Even with all of that, I'm definitely interested in what's going to happen in this new series!
What a trip down memory lane. Starting off, this was so exciting to get into as a continuation from the previous manga series. I was so excited to see where we were going to go story wise, and it did a great job kind of recapping everything that happened and touching on where the characters were if they weren't there physically. As it went on though, and maybe it's because I've grown up since reading the series the first time, but it was a little hard to keep suspending disbelief and just following the story as things keep happening and Amu just doesn't know what's going on. I'm very interested in the mystery revolving around Arcana Academy, especially with Amu and her abilities, but the way it started off felt more like "these things just need to happen" and not really offering a way for it to make much sense, even in a hand-wavy way. Even with all of that, I'm definitely interested in what's going to happen in this new series!
March 16, 2026
Okeee, da ich von der Hauptreihe nur Band 1 gelesen hab, war ich ein wenig verwirrt zu Beginn, haha. Definitiv fehlen mir ein paar Informationen und Handlungsstränge.. aber abseits davon hat es auch so ganz gut funktioniert tatsächlich. Die Charaktere sind mittlerweile älter und gehen nun zur Junior High. Amu wird allerdings zu Beginn direkt an eine andere Schule geschickt.. an der alle Schüler ein Character Egg haben (die meisten mit dem Logo der Schule).. das allein ist schon sehr mysteriös.. aber es gibt noch andere Dinge, die seltsam sind und weswegen Amu dorthin geschickt wurde.
Ich bin mit den Charakteren recht schnell wieder warm geworden und einerseits sind sie schon noch sehr kindlich, andererseits finde ich es hier aber nicht so nervig, wie es oft bei anderen Titeln der Fall ist. Die Story ist jedenfalls interessant und der Schluss macht auch direkt Lust weiterlesen zu wollen 👀
Ich bin mit den Charakteren recht schnell wieder warm geworden und einerseits sind sie schon noch sehr kindlich, andererseits finde ich es hier aber nicht so nervig, wie es oft bei anderen Titeln der Fall ist. Die Story ist jedenfalls interessant und der Schluss macht auch direkt Lust weiterlesen zu wollen 👀
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March 17, 2026An unexpected but exiting sequel!
I stumbled upon this volume by chance, completely unaware that Shugo Chara!, one of my most beloved series from my childhood, had a sequel! An ongoing one, at that!
I quickly binged the original series in preparation for this read, and it was such a sweet trip down memory lane. This volume introduces us to a new school with new mysteries ahead, and a slightly more mature Amu—who I’m sure will grow even more in the volumes to come.
I think the introduction of a new setting and new characters was much needed, and it’s a refreshing expansion of the world. It’s kind of messy, but it’s a lighthearted manga for all ages, so I’m not going to be very critical of all that (plus my nostalgia for it makes my bias too strong). The novel ended with my favorite character returning so I’m certainly excited for the next volume!
I stumbled upon this volume by chance, completely unaware that Shugo Chara!, one of my most beloved series from my childhood, had a sequel! An ongoing one, at that!
I quickly binged the original series in preparation for this read, and it was such a sweet trip down memory lane. This volume introduces us to a new school with new mysteries ahead, and a slightly more mature Amu—who I’m sure will grow even more in the volumes to come.
I think the introduction of a new setting and new characters was much needed, and it’s a refreshing expansion of the world. It’s kind of messy, but it’s a lighthearted manga for all ages, so I’m not going to be very critical of all that (plus my nostalgia for it makes my bias too strong). The novel ended with my favorite character returning so I’m certainly excited for the next volume!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When a child grows up, it's said their egg disappears... don't tell me this sequel considers that for the ending... but welcome back Amu and friends!! Gosh this is so nostalgic! I used to reread and rewatch the entire series so much when I was younger!
Lowkey can't believe Ikuto is still here and they're still possibly a thing? Wasn't he much older in the original... there's still an age gap isn't there? Also, these new characters at Arcana are giving stand-in replacements for the original group...
I love that Tadase is as charming and princely as ever, my childhood crush <3 Can't wait to relive my childhood with this series and see all the new cutie guardian characters! Thank you SOOO much to Kodansha and Netgalley for the ARC! 💌
Lowkey can't believe Ikuto is still here and they're still possibly a thing? Wasn't he much older in the original... there's still an age gap isn't there? Also, these new characters at Arcana are giving stand-in replacements for the original group...
I love that Tadase is as charming and princely as ever, my childhood crush <3 Can't wait to relive my childhood with this series and see all the new cutie guardian characters! Thank you SOOO much to Kodansha and Netgalley for the ARC! 💌
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ahhhh, it was so fun!
Being back in this world with my favorite characters, plus a bunch of fun new characters, a brand new setting, new high stakes, and a new storyline-I had the time of my life. I will never not love Peach-Pit and all the ways they craft storylines and characters. They are original, exciting, and add a special element of surprise to every volume.
This new story for Amu and her friends is going to be such an adventure! I can't wait to see where the next volumes take us! Especially after seeing that certain character re-introduced at the end of this volume? Oh, I'm ECSTATIC for volume 2!
Thank you to NetGalley for the E-Arc in exchange for an honest review.
Being back in this world with my favorite characters, plus a bunch of fun new characters, a brand new setting, new high stakes, and a new storyline-I had the time of my life. I will never not love Peach-Pit and all the ways they craft storylines and characters. They are original, exciting, and add a special element of surprise to every volume.
This new story for Amu and her friends is going to be such an adventure! I can't wait to see where the next volumes take us! Especially after seeing that certain character re-introduced at the end of this volume? Oh, I'm ECSTATIC for volume 2!
Thank you to NetGalley for the E-Arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
Very cute and has a nostalgic feel with the same art style but a new story. I loved all of these when I was younger and now I may not be the target audience at 27 - I am intrigued to see where this goes next! The art style was gorgeous as always too which was lovely to see again.
I do feel like Amu has regressed somewhat from the last book series which is a bit frustrating but that is maybe necessary in order to develop the new story. The love triangle is very much alive and well though!
Thank you Netgalley for the Arc
Very cute and has a nostalgic feel with the same art style but a new story. I loved all of these when I was younger and now I may not be the target audience at 27 - I am intrigued to see where this goes next! The art style was gorgeous as always too which was lovely to see again.
I do feel like Amu has regressed somewhat from the last book series which is a bit frustrating but that is maybe necessary in order to develop the new story. The love triangle is very much alive and well though!
Thank you Netgalley for the Arc
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Kodansha Comics and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Shugo Chara! Jewel Joker Vol. 1 was such a happy surprise to read. I never thought I’d get to dive into new adventures with Amu and Ikuto again, and seeing them grow up a little bit in this sequel gave me a real rush of joy. The story is fun, sweet, and full of the heart that made me fall in love with Shugo Chara! as a kid, and I’m very happy to have spent time with these characters again after all these years.
Shugo Chara! Jewel Joker Vol. 1 was such a happy surprise to read. I never thought I’d get to dive into new adventures with Amu and Ikuto again, and seeing them grow up a little bit in this sequel gave me a real rush of joy. The story is fun, sweet, and full of the heart that made me fall in love with Shugo Chara! as a kid, and I’m very happy to have spent time with these characters again after all these years.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amu and Tadase transfer to a strange junior high where everyone knows about eggs and guardian characters. It's also a boarding school, so they're cut off from the friends and family we loved from the first series.
This is a more action packed series than how Shugo Chara started. It's familiar but wildly different at the same time. There's even a new catboy flirting with Amu! I'm not sure how I feel about all this... But I guess adapting to change is a big theme of Shugo Chara?
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
This is a more action packed series than how Shugo Chara started. It's familiar but wildly different at the same time. There's even a new catboy flirting with Amu! I'm not sure how I feel about all this... But I guess adapting to change is a big theme of Shugo Chara?
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
March 7, 2026
Thanks to Peach-Pit, Kodansha, and Netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
So this is a sequel to the popular Shugo Chara! series and I can't believe it. It's been so long since the series came out. I got all giggly inside. The artwork is still so cute! There's some modern flair thrown in and I like it. It picks up right after what happened last-- Amu in middle school now with a different mission than before. Loving the mysterious school, their mission with the eggs, and the cat-boy! 💜
So this is a sequel to the popular Shugo Chara! series and I can't believe it. It's been so long since the series came out. I got all giggly inside. The artwork is still so cute! There's some modern flair thrown in and I like it. It picks up right after what happened last-- Amu in middle school now with a different mission than before. Loving the mysterious school, their mission with the eggs, and the cat-boy! 💜
April 9, 2026
Thank you Netgalley for the arc!
We return to the world of Shugo Chara! with a sequel series, Jewel Joker. Amu is now in middle school, with one of the other guardians in a special school of character wielders, still hunting X eggs to free. But something is amiss as all the eggs have the school logo, and they give out eggs as prizes? Time to find out what's happening.
This was a super fun return to the world and these characters. Amu is fun to follow and I had a really good time with the story. Can't wait to see what happens next!
We return to the world of Shugo Chara! with a sequel series, Jewel Joker. Amu is now in middle school, with one of the other guardians in a special school of character wielders, still hunting X eggs to free. But something is amiss as all the eggs have the school logo, and they give out eggs as prizes? Time to find out what's happening.
This was a super fun return to the world and these characters. Amu is fun to follow and I had a really good time with the story. Can't wait to see what happens next!
May 12, 2026
It was a cute and fun read! I wanted to give it a try since I watched some episodes of the anime years ago.
I think this is perfect for shojo manga readers or anyone who enjoys magical girl series. It's fun and exciting, and uplifting. I'm also curious about Ikuto Tsukiyomi since I don't know a whole lot about him. I know I should read the main story first, but reading the sequel didn't confuse me much because I watched some of the anime.
One thing that also came from reading this was my interest in continuing the anime someday.
3.5/5
I think this is perfect for shojo manga readers or anyone who enjoys magical girl series. It's fun and exciting, and uplifting. I'm also curious about Ikuto Tsukiyomi since I don't know a whole lot about him. I know I should read the main story first, but reading the sequel didn't confuse me much because I watched some of the anime.
One thing that also came from reading this was my interest in continuing the anime someday.
3.5/5
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
So this is cute and the characters are finally in middle school. With a new mystery to solve.
I don't recommend reading this without having read some (or even better - all) of the original series, as there are some spoilers from the original, plus you lack a lot of context and character growth. Having only read the first 20th anniversary edition, I could follow along well enough, but there were some gaps in my knowledge.
Recommended to read after finishing the original series.
So this is cute and the characters are finally in middle school. With a new mystery to solve.
I don't recommend reading this without having read some (or even better - all) of the original series, as there are some spoilers from the original, plus you lack a lot of context and character growth. Having only read the first 20th anniversary edition, I could follow along well enough, but there were some gaps in my knowledge.
Recommended to read after finishing the original series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A whole new Shugo Chara adventure?! I'm so excited!
A fun and exciting start to the new series. The artwork and style is as gorgeous as ever, and we get to go on more adventures with Amu, her guardian characters, and new and old friends!
I absolutely can't wait to read the rest of this series. If you haven't read the first series, Shugo Chara! I definitely recommend you read it first! This is an absolute must for fans of magical girl stories.
A fun and exciting start to the new series. The artwork and style is as gorgeous as ever, and we get to go on more adventures with Amu, her guardian characters, and new and old friends!
I absolutely can't wait to read the rest of this series. If you haven't read the first series, Shugo Chara! I definitely recommend you read it first! This is an absolute must for fans of magical girl stories.
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