Sharean Morishita is a name that resonates with fans of heartfelt, character-driven manga and webtoons.
An indie comic artist and writer based in Iowa, Morishita has carved out a unique space in the comic industry with over a decade of experience. Known for her authentic storytelling and relatable characters, she has created a bibliography that celebrates diversity, body positivity, and emotional depth. Her works, including Love! Love! Fighting!, Catch Me! Fight Me! Love Me!, School Memories, Rescue Me, and Whisper of Cinnamon, are available in both print and digital formats.
A Passion for Storytelling
Sharean Morishita’s journey as a comic creator began over eleven years ago, driven by a desire to tell stories that reflect her personal experiences and struggles. As a Black-Korean American artist, Morishita infuses her work with themes of identity, self-worth, and cultural exploration.
She has shared that Love! Love! Fighting! was born during a challenging period in her life, serving as both a creative outlet and a personal affirmation of self-acceptance. Despite facing criticism from peers and professors who doubted her talent, Morishita persevered, publishing five webtoon comics and three graphic novel series. Her resilience and passion shine through in her work, making her an inspiring figure for aspiring artists.
Beyond creating comics, Morishita is dedicated to helping others navigate the world of webtoon creation. Through her website, S-Morishita Studio, she offers resources like eBooks and guides, such as the Webtoon for Beginners Ebook and the Webtoon 3D Model Workshop Guidebook. These resources provide practical advice on hardware, software, and techniques for crafting digital comics, reflecting her commitment to supporting the next generation of creators.
Signature Works: A Closer Look
Love! Love! Fighting!
Morishita’s flagship series, Love! Love! Fighting!, is a shoujo manga that breaks the mold with its plus-sized protagonist, Oriana. This romantic comedy follows Oriana, a young Black-Korean American woman facing financial struggles and family disconnection. Tricked by her cousins into returning to South Korea, Oriana navigates new relationships and personal growth.
The series, available in individual volumes (Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3) and a 3-in-1 Omnibus, tackles heavy themes like colorism, fatphobia, and family dysfunction while maintaining a lighthearted and adventurous tone. Readers praise its emotional depth and representation of a plus-sized heroine who is loved for who she is, not for changing her body.
Catch Me! Fight Me! Love Me!
This webtoon, also available as a graphic novel, explores a romance that begins as a pretense but blossoms into something genuine. Described as a wholesome, anime-style story, it appeals to fans of interracial romance and character-driven narratives. It’s a fan favorite for its emotional resonance and vibrant art.
School Memories
A more serious work, School Memories is an all-ages webcomic published by
Antarctic Press that addresses bullying and compassion through the perspectives of Colton, a class clown, and Echo, a new student who has faced bullying at every school. This thought-provoking manga focuses on the consequences of seemingly harmless pranks and is a powerful read for young readers and adults alike.
Other works include Rescue Me and Whisper of Cinnamon
Why Sharean Morishita’s Manga Stands Out
Morishita’s work is celebrated for its inclusivity and authenticity. Her stories often feature multiracial and plus-sized characters, addressing issues like body image, cultural identity, and anxiety in ways that resonate with diverse readers.
Reviews highlight the emotional impact of her manga, with one reader noting that Love! Love! Fighting! is “much more than just a romance manga” for its exploration of being bi-racial and navigating cultural challenges. Another reader, reflecting on their own multiracial identity, wished they had access to such stories during their youth, emphasizing the importance of representation in Morishita’s work.
Her art style, described as anime-inspired, complements her storytelling with expressive characters and dynamic layouts. Morishita also embraces digital tools, sharing 3D modeling techniques to help aspiring artists create professional-quality webtoons. Her free webtoon backgrounds and tutorials further demonstrate her commitment to community-building within the comic industry.
Where to Find Her Work
Morishita’s manga is available through her website, Amazon, and as a digital collectible here on CryptoComics.
For those interested in her latest updates, Morishita maintains an active presence on social media and her blog, where she shares tips like achieving crisp lines in webtoon art. Her newsletter also keeps fans informed about new releases and projects.
Sharean Morishita’s manga offers a refreshing take on shoujo and webtoon storytelling, blending humor, romance, and social commentary with a focus on underrepresented voices. Her dedication to her craft and her community makes her a standout indie creator. Whether you’re drawn to the romantic comedy of Love! Love! Fighting!, the heartfelt drama of Catch Me! Fight Me! Love Me!, or the poignant lessons of School Memories, Morishita’s work is sure to leave an impact.
Check out her titles on Amazon or her
website, and join the growing community of readers who find solace and joy in her stories.