After a catastrophe, Shii explores an abandoned city with her golem companion, Bulb, encountering new golems and facing mysterious dangers. The story delves into themes of companionship, sacrifice, and the complexities of a world without humans.

Reader Review Summary

"The Country Without Humans, Vol. 2" is a brilliant continuation of this captivating post-apocalyptic manga series. Iwatobineko has crafted a hauntingly beautiful and imaginative world devoid of humans, where golems and robots are left to fend for themselves. This second volume deepens the immersive worldbuilding, taking readers on an enthralling journey through the vividly realized abandoned city.

One of the standout strengths is the incredibly creative and diverse array of golems and robots populating this desolate landscape. From friendly social-use golems providing a warm welcome to Shii, to the enigmatic and poetic Moody tinkering in the undercity slums, the variety of characters is mesmerizing. Iwatobineko's designs showcase a stunning blend of references spanning cyberpunk, fantasy, and classic Japanese influences. The visuals are simply breathtaking.

The relationship between the adorable heroine Shii and her devoted protector Bulb remains a profound emotional anchor. Their deep bond and Bulb's unwavering loyalty provide some of the story's most poignant and touching moments. Readers will be deeply moved by Bulb's self-sacrificing bravery to shield Shii from the sinister cone robots enforcing the old regime's laws. The arrival of the disarmingly charming communicator golem Teefa ushers in intriguing new dynamics and mysteries to be unraveled.

While maintaining an aura of wistful melancholy befitting its post-human premise, Volume 2 deftly balances lighter, uplifting notes of whimsy through Shii's delightfully innocent interactions. The thoughtful exploration of the golems' existences, grappling with newfound free will and self-determination in the absence of human masters, adds profound philosophical depths. From the moving resignation of one 'nanny' golem choosing mortality to the burgeoning robot counterculture, Iwatobineko poses compelling questions about agency, purpose and the essence of life itself.

With a strong average rating near 4 stars from readers, "The Country Without Humans, Vol. 2" is being celebrated as an exceptional continuation true to the gripping tone and quality of the first book. Fans are raving about the intriguing storytelling, distinctive robot cast, and immersion into the eerie, evocative dystopian realm. The haunting cliffhanger finale has many eagerly anticipating what thought-provoking saga will unfurl in future volumes of this unmissable manga series blending genres from sci-fi and fantasy to post-apocalyptic drama. Iwatobineko's visionary work is not to be missed.