Wild Life (manga)

Wild Life vol 01

Wild Life is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Masato Fujisaki. The series was serialized in Shogakukan's Weekly Shōnen Sunday from 2003 to 2008. Wild Life has been collected into 27 tankōbon volumes, showcasing the adventures of Tesshō Iwashiro, a young man with an extraordinary ability to communicate with animals, which leads him to pursue a career as a veterinarian.

Plot

The story follows Tesshō Iwashiro, a high school dropout with a deep passion for animals. Despite his rough exterior and lack of formal education, Tesshō possesses a unique talent for understanding and communicating with animals, a skill that he discovers accidentally. This ability draws him into the world of veterinary medicine, where he decides to dedicate his life to saving animals. Under the guidance of a veteran veterinarian, Tesshō embarks on a challenging journey to become a professional vet, facing various medical cases and ethical dilemmas along the way. His dedication and unconventional methods often put him at odds with the traditional practices of the veterinary world, but his genuine care for animals and remarkable healing abilities win him the respect and admiration of those around him.

Characters

• Tesshō Iwashiro - The protagonist of the series, known for his exceptional ability to communicate with animals and his unyielding dedication to their welfare.
• Ryōto Suganuma - A fellow veterinarian and friend of Tesshō, who often finds himself amazed by Tesshō's unconventional methods.
• Asuka Takarada - A love interest of Tesshō, she admires his passion for animals and supports his journey to become a veterinarian.
• Dr. Tachibana - The mentor to Tesshō, a seasoned veterinarian who recognizes Tesshō's potential and guides him through the complexities of veterinary medicine.

Themes

Wild Life explores themes of compassion, dedication, and the bond between humans and animals. It delves into the ethical responsibilities of a veterinarian and the challenges of the medical treatment of animals. The manga also highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and the impact of unconventional thinking in solving complex problems.

Reception

Wild Life has been well-received for its unique premise and the engaging portrayal of veterinary medicine. The series is praised for its educational value, providing insight into animal care and medical procedures, while also delivering an entertaining story with compelling characters. Its blend of drama, comedy, and suspense has attracted a wide audience, including those with an interest in animals and veterinary science.

Publication

The manga was serialized in Weekly Shōnen Sunday from 2003 until its conclusion in 2008. It has been collected into 27 tankōbon volumes by Shogakukan. Although Wild Life has not been officially translated into English, it has garnered a following outside Japan through fan translations.

See Also

• Veterinary medicine
• Animal communication
• Shōnen manga