Gengoroh Tagame, the Eisner Award-winning graphic novelist celebrated for his impactful contributions to gay manga, will see his latest work, “Fish and Water,” released in English in June 2026. Published by Pantheon, the graphic novel explores the developing relationship between two “straight” friends amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
An Intimate Story of Connection in Isolation
“Fish and Water” centers on Akira, a business sales administrator, and Koji, a freelance writer, who become close after meeting at a mutual friend’s wedding. The narrative unfolds during pandemic-related shutdowns, as Akira, feeling lonely, uses an offer of fresh cabbage from a client as an excuse to visit Koji, who enjoys cooking. Their relaxed interactions lead to an “amusing but emotionally confusing scenario” as both men grapple with the evolving nature of their friendship and potential romantic feelings. The manga is described as a tender and beautifully illustrated character study and a contemporary comedy of manners, exploring how love can blossom in unexpected ways.
About the Acclaimed Creator, Gengoroh Tagame
Gengoroh Tagame, born in 1964 and residing in Tokyo, is a highly influential figure in the gay manga genre. After studying graphic design and working as an art director, Tagame transitioned to full-time artistry, co-founding the significant G-Men Magazine in 1994 and openly working as a gay artist by 1996.
While much of his earlier career focused on erotic and pornographic manga, often featuring themes of BDSM, sexual violence, and hypermasculinity, Tagame gained mainstream recognition in the 2010s for his non-pornographic works exploring LGBT themes. His 2014 series, My Brother’s Husband, an all-ages title, garnered critical acclaim, including a Japan Media Arts Festival Award, a Japan Cartoonists Association Award, and an Eisner Award in 2018. His work is noted for its masterful imagery and psychological complexity, often contrasting with the “yaoi” or “Boys’ Love” genre by depicting more muscular, “bear-like” physiques and catering to a male audience.
The Significance of the English Release
The English publication of “Fish and Water” by Pantheon further solidifies Tagame’s growing presence in the Western market. Pantheon has previously released other works by Tagame, including My Brother’s Husband and Our Colors. The availability of “Fish and Water” in English will allow a broader audience to experience Tagame’s nuanced storytelling, particularly his exploration of mature relationships and the complexities of identity within a contemporary setting. The manga originally began as a one-shot published on Futabasha’s Web Action site in May 2022, before starting serialization in October 2022.
Publication Details
The English edition of “Fish and Water” is set to be released on June 23, 2026, by Pantheon. The volume will be 192 pages and available in hardcover.
