Otsuichi Books In Order

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas

Publication Order of Otsuichi Manga Books

Publication Order of Anthologies

About Otsuichi

Otsuichi is the name Hirotaka Adachi uses for his writing and film work. He belongs to two groups in Japan that focus on mystery stories. His first story came out when he was in high school, titled Summer, Fireworks and My Corpse. One of his most famous books, Goth, later became a comic and a movie, and it earned him a major mystery award in 2003.

His stories pull readers in with strong characters and unexpected turns. The way he builds his protagonists makes them feel real, keeping the action moving without slowing down. Books like Zoo and Calling You show his skill at mixing dark themes with gripping storytelling. Some of his work, including short stories like F-Sensei’s Pocket, has been translated into English.

Readers enjoy Otsuichi’s talent for blending suspense with sharp, clear writing. His books often twist in surprising ways, making them hard to put down. Whether in novels or short stories, he crafts tales that stick with people long after they finish reading. With adaptations in comics and film, his stories reach even more fans around the world.

Otsuichi’s stories connect with readers everywhere because they feel fresh and unpredictable. He stays true to his own style, mixing mystery, horror, and dark humor in ways that feel natural. Even when his plots take wild turns, they never lose their emotional weight. This balance keeps his work exciting without ever feeling forced.

His characters drive the stories, making even the strangest situations believable. Whether it’s a detective solving twisted crimes or an ordinary person facing the supernatural, they react in ways that make sense. This grounded approach lets readers dive into bizarre worlds without losing their footing. The result is fiction that’s both thrilling and easy to follow.

By sticking to his instincts, Otsuichi creates stories that stand out in any language. His books have been translated, adapted, and enjoyed globally, proving good storytelling crosses borders. He doesn’t chase trends, he writes what fascinates him, and that honesty shines through. That’s why his fans keep coming back for more.

Otsuichi continues to write, ensuring fans will have more of his gripping stories to enjoy. With his track record of novels, short stories, and adaptations, there’s no doubt he has fresh ideas in store. His ability to surprise readers means future works will likely be just as bold and engaging. Whether in print or on screen, his storytelling will keep evolving while staying unmistakably his own.

Early and Personal Life

Otsuichi, born Hirotaka Adachi, grew up in Fukuoka Prefecture as the youngest in a family of four, with his parents and two older sisters. He attended Kawai Elementary School and later studied at the National Institute of Technology, Kurume College, where he began shaping his future career. His early education laid the groundwork for his later creative pursuits, though his true passion always leaned toward storytelling.

While studying at Toyohashi University of Technology, he joined a science fiction research group, fueling his interest in writing. It was during this time that he wrote Goth, one of his most famous works, which won a major mystery award in 2003. After graduating, he moved closer to Tokyo, immersing himself in Japan’s literary and film scene, which further expanded his creative horizons.

A pivotal moment came when he met filmmaker Mamoru Oshii’s daughter, Tomoe Oshii, while observing work on Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence. The two later married in 2006 and started a family, adding new depth to his life and work. With a steady career and ongoing projects, Otsuichi continues to evolve as a writer and filmmaker, leaving fans eager to see what he creates next.

Writing Career

Otsuichi’s works have reached global audiences through English translations, including Calling You, Goth, and Zoo, which showcase his talent for blending mystery and psychological depth. His short story collection Summer, Fireworks, and My Corpse, his debut work written in high school, remains a standout, alongside Black Fairy Tale and Seven Rooms, known for their unsettling yet compelling narratives. Additional short stories like F-sensei’s Pocket and Where the Wind Blows further highlight his versatility in crafting gripping, atmospheric fiction.

His writing has earned critical acclaim, including the 2003 Honkaku Mystery Award for Goth and a Shirley Jackson Award nomination for Zoo. Early recognition came with the Weekly Shōnen Jump Novel Award for Summer, Fireworks, and My Corpse, proving his skill even as a young writer. With a strong catalog already established, Otsuichi continues to write, promising more thought-provoking stories for readers worldwide.

Summer, Fireworks, and My Corpse

Summer, Fireworks, and My Corpse was written by Otsuichi and translated into English by Nathan Collins. Originally published in Japan on October 4, 1996, the work later appeared in English under Haikasoru, an imprint specializing in Japanese speculative fiction. The novella remains one of Otsuichi’s most recognized early works.

This collection contains two short novels, Summer, Fireworks, and My Corpse and Black Fairy Tale, plus an additional story. The first follows a murdered child narrating her killers’ attempts to hide her body. The second tells of a girl whose eye transplant lets her see her donor’s memories. Both stories blend mystery and horror in Otsuichi’s signature style.

Readers who enjoy dark, inventive storytelling will find this book gripping. The unusual perspectives and unsettling atmosphere create a memorable reading experience. Fans of psychological horror will appreciate the clever twists and haunting imagery. It’s a compelling choice for those who like stories that linger in the mind long after finishing.

Zoo

The short-story collection Zoo was written by Japanese author Otsuichi and translated into English by Terry Gallagher. Originally published in Japan on June 26, 2003, the work was again later released in English by Haikasoru, known for its Japanese speculative fiction titles. The collection showcases Otsuichi’s distinctive blend of mystery and psychological thriller elements.

This collection presents Otsuichi’s signature dark fantasy tales, including a chilling story about a man receiving daily photos of his decomposing girlfriend. Other narratives feature elaborate deathtraps and supernatural settings like haunted parks and belief-sustained airplanes.

Each story delivers unsettling concepts with precise execution. The anthology showcases why Otsuichi remains a standout in Japanese speculative fiction.