The popular light novel series “A Misanthrope Teaches a Class for Demi-Humans” (Jingai Kyoushitsu no Ningengirai Kyoushi), penned by Nijisanji VTuber Kurusu Natsume, is officially receiving a television anime adaptation set to premiere in January 2026. Kadokawa announced the adaptation, which will be animated by studio Asread.
A Glimpse into the World of “A Misanthrope Teaches a Class for Demi-Humans”
The light novel series, which began publication under Media Factory’s MF Bunko J imprint in February 2022, introduces readers to Rei Hitoma, a licensed high school teacher who has become a self-proclaimed misanthrope due to a past traumatic experience. After leaving his previous teaching job, he spends his days playing video games, convinced he no longer wishes to interact with people.
His life takes an unexpected turn when he accepts a peculiar job listing at a remote all-girls school. To his surprise, this institution, Shiranui High School, is a special facility dedicated to animals and spirits—collectively referred to as demi-humans—who aspire to become human.
The Unlikely Teacher and His Unique Students
Rei Hitoma is placed in charge of the advanced class, tasked with teaching four female demi-humans how to become the very beings he claims to despise. The class includes a mermaid, a werewolf, a rabbit, and a bird. As he endeavors to guide them in understanding humankind, Rei might just discover some truths about himself and humanity along the way. The narrative explores themes of self-acceptance and the importance of community, resonating with the idea of opening up to others to improve oneself.
Yen Press, the English publisher of the light novels, describes the premise as a story that “isn’t an alternate world or a case of reincarnation. It’s just the story of a teacher at a somewhat peculiar school and his students who are striving to become human”. The series has garnered attention for its blend of comedy, drama, and slice-of-life elements, with minimal conflict and light fantasy aspects.
Creative Minds Behind the Adaptation
The anime adaptation will be directed by Akira Iwanaga, known for his work on “The Morose Mononokean Season 1,” with Katsuhiko Takayama handling the series’ composition. Makoto Miyazaki is composing the music. Asread, the studio behind the animation, is set to bring Kurusu Natsume’s unique world to life. A teaser trailer and visual have already been released, building anticipation for the January 2026 premiere.
Kurusu Natsume: From VTuber to Light Novel Author
The author, Kurusu Natsume (来栖夏芽), is a female Japanese VTuber affiliated with NIJISANJI Project. Debuting on December 29, 2019, she is known for her love of music and sheep, and her content includes drawing, free talk, gaming, and singing. Her fanbase is affectionately known as “Natsumate”.
Natsume’s journey into light novel writing was reportedly encouraged by a follower who became her editor, having read her previous short stories. Much of the project’s development was shared across her YouTube channel and X (formerly Twitter), incorporating community input and prompts from her fanbase to shape each chapter. This collaborative approach has imbued “A Misanthrope Teaches a Class for Demi-Humans” with a strong sense of community and the importance of human connection.
The light novel series currently has four volumes as of February 2025 and has also spawned a manga adaptation illustrated by Atsu Benino, which was serialized from August 2022 to July 2025. The series was ranked seventh in the tankōbon category at the 2022 Next Light Novel Awards.
