The anime film adaptation of Nowaki Fukamidori’s fantasy novel, Whoever Steals This Book (Kono Hon o Nusumu Mono wa), is officially set to premiere in Japan on December 26, 2025. This release date marks a shift from its initial announcement of a 2026 debut.
A New Cinematic Chapter for a Beloved Novel
The announcement of the December 26, 2025 release date for Whoever Steals This Book has generated excitement among fans of the original novel and manga. The film is produced by Studio Kagokan, with Daisei Fukuoka directing. Yasuhiro Nakanishi is handling the screenplay, while Keiko Kurosawa is responsible for character designs and serving as chief animation director. The musical score is being composed by Michiru Ōshima. Kadokawa Animation is the distributor for the film.
From Page to Screen: The Story’s Origins
Whoever Steals This Book originated as a Japanese novel written by Nowaki Fukamidori, first published by Kadokawa Shoten in October 2020. A paperback edition followed in June 2023. The novel was notably nominated for the 2021 Japan Booksellers’ Award.
The story centers on Mifuyu Mikura, a high school student who, despite being descended from a long line of book collectors and living in the book-centric town of Yomunaga, surprisingly detests books. Her great-grandfather established Mikura Hall, a renowned private library in the heart of the town, which houses a prestigious collection of rare and enchanted books.
The Curse Unleashed: A Fantasy Mystery Unfolds
The plot of Whoever Steals This Book truly kicks off when a thief steals several books from Mikura Hall, triggering an ancient “book curse.” This curse transforms the town of Yomunaga according to the narratives of the stolen books, pulling Mifuyu into the very stories she despises. To set things right and reclaim the stolen books, Mifuyu has no choice but to venture into these fantastical worlds. She is aided in her quest by a mysterious companion named Mashiro. The narrative explores themes of fantasy and mystery, with Mifuyu growing to understand the world, people, and even books around her through her adventures.
Manga Adaptation and English Release
Prior to the anime film, Whoever Steals This Book was adapted into a manga series illustrated by Kakeru Sora. The manga was serialized in Kadokawa Shoten’s Young Ace magazine from December 2021 to March 2023, compiling into three tankōbon volumes. Both the original novel and the manga adaptation have been licensed for English release by Yen Press. Yen On, an imprint of Yen Press, specifically released the novel in English on February 18. The manga volumes have also seen English publication.
