Manga’s Rising Star: Tohru Kuramori and the Future of Dark Fantasy
Japanese manga artist Tohru Kuramori, creator of the critically acclaimed series Centuria, is set to make his first appearance in Germany at the Leipzig Book Fair and Manga Comic Con on February 11, 2026. This visit follows a successful European debut at the Japan Expo in Paris in 2025, signaling a growing international interest in Kuramori’s unique blend of action and horror.
From Chainsaw Man Assistant to Dark Fantasy Creator
Kuramori’s journey to becoming a celebrated mangaka began as an assistant to Tatsuki Fujimoto, the creator of the bestselling Chainsaw Man series. This early experience provided a strong foundation, but with Centuria, Kuramori has established his own distinct voice. The series masterfully combines intense action sequences with the unsettling atmosphere of H.P. Lovecraft’s supernatural horror, appealing to a broad audience.
The Appeal of Dark Fantasy Manga
The increasing popularity of dark fantasy manga, like Centuria, reflects a broader trend in entertainment. Readers are drawn to complex narratives that explore mature themes and challenge conventional storytelling. This genre often features morally ambiguous characters and worlds steeped in mystery and danger. The success of Chainsaw Man demonstrates this appetite and Kuramori’s operate builds upon that foundation.
Leipzig Book Fair: A Hub for Manga and Comic Con
The Leipzig Book Fair, alongside the Manga Comic Con, provides a significant platform for international manga artists. Kuramori’s presence highlights the event’s growing importance in the global manga community. Fans will have opportunities to meet the artist during signing sessions (distributed via a lottery system through Egmont Manga’s social media channels) and witness a live drawing session on the “Schwarzes Sofa” on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
Exclusive Merchandise and Limited Editions
Egmont Manga will offer exclusive merchandise at the fair, including a limited-edition set featuring the first two volumes of Centuria and other fan articles. Attendees of the Manga Comic Con will have early access to the second volume of Centuria, ahead of its official April release. This strategy of exclusive releases and merchandise is a common practice in the manga industry, fostering a sense of community and rewarding dedicated fans.
Press Access and Privacy Considerations
Recognizing the importance of both media coverage and artist privacy, Egmont Manga is offering pre-scheduled interview opportunities with Kuramori. However, photography of the artist during the event will be restricted, with pre-prepared materials provided to the press instead. This approach balances the need for publicity with the artist’s desire for a more controlled environment.
Beyond Centuria: Other Featured Artists
The Leipzig Book Fair will also showcase other talented creators, including author and artist Anne Luise P., promoting her New Adult trilogy The Wrong Scents, and mangaka Ren M. Pape, presenting her second fantasy work, Nebel. This diverse lineup demonstrates the breadth and depth of the contemporary manga and comic scene.
FAQ
Q: How can I attend the signing sessions with Tohru Kuramori?
A: Places for the signing sessions will be allocated through a lottery system. Details on how to enter will be announced on Egmont Manga’s social media channels.
Q: Where can I purchase the limited-edition Centuria set?
A: The limited-edition set will be exclusively available at the Egmont stand in Hall 3, Stand G201/H200 at the Leipzig Book Fair.
Q: Will photography of Tohru Kuramori be allowed during the event?
A: No, photography of the artist will not be permitted. Pre-prepared materials will be available for the press.
Q: When will the second volume of Centuria be officially released?
A: The second volume of Centuria will be officially released in April.
Pro Tip: Follow Egmont Manga on social media for the latest updates on the lottery for signing sessions and other event details!
For interview requests with Tohru Kuramori, Anne Luise P., or Ren M. Pape, or for review copies, please contact Till Reischl at [email protected].
