In a thrilling announcement for anime enthusiasts, an anime film adaptation of the mystery fantasy novel Whoever Steals This Book (Kono Hon wo Nusumu Mono wa) has been officially confirmed for a 2026 theatrical release in Japan. The project, helmed by Studio Kagome Company and directed by Daiki Fukuoka, promises to bring the enchanting and enigmatic world of Nowaki Fukamidori’s acclaimed novel to life on the big screen. The official website for the film, launched to mark the announcement, offers a glimpse into the magical narrative that awaits viewers.
The adaptation is being crafted by Studio Kagome Company, a rising name in the anime industry, with Daiki Fukuoka at the helm as director. Fukuoka, known for his meticulous attention to narrative and visual storytelling, is poised to translate the novel’s atmospheric charm into a visually stunning film. The production team has teased a faithful yet innovative approach, aiming to preserve the novel’s essence while enhancing its magical elements through animation. The official website features a promotional video showcasing early concept art and a hauntingly beautiful score, hinting at the film’s ethereal aesthetic.
Scheduled for release in 2026, the film is already generating anticipation for its promise of blending mystery, fantasy, and emotional resonance. While specific details about the cast and additional staff remain under wraps, the website assures fans that updates will follow as production progresses.
Check out the stunning key visual for Whoever Steals This Book anime film:
What is Whoever Steals This Book about?
The anime film is based on the novel Whoever Steals This Book by Japanese author Nowaki Fukamidori, first published in 2020. The story, a blend of mystery and fantasy, has garnered praise for its unique premise and intricate storytelling. Set in the fictional town of Tsukimori, the novel centers on a young girl named Mito, who, despite her aversion to books, becomes entangled in a fantastical adventure tied to her great-grandfather’s vast library. The work has been lauded for its imaginative exploration of literature’s power and its ability to weave emotional depth with supernatural intrigue. Published in English by Yen Press, the novel has captivated readers worldwide, setting high expectations for its cinematic adaptation.
The official synopsis from Yen Press provides a vivid glimpse into the story’s allure:
The city of Tsukimori is a haven for book lovers—a metropolis devoted to libraries, reading, and the celebration of the written word. At the center of it all is Mito, a high school girl who can’t stand books despite her great-grandfather’s massive, majestic library, which now falls to her to maintain. When someone in Tsukimori activates a curse that could destroy the town and all its stories, Mito has no choice but to dive into the fictional worlds within those books to track down the culprit!
With its roots in a beloved novel and the creative vision of Studio Kagome Company, Whoever Steals This Book is shaping up to be a standout anime film in 2026. The adaptation’s focus on a literature-centric narrative, combined with its supernatural elements, offers a fresh take on the mystery genre, appealing to both fans of the original work and newcomers alike. As production continues, the anime community eagerly awaits further details on the film’s cast, soundtrack, and release date, all of which will be shared via the official website of the anime film.
Sources: Comic Natalie, official website of Whoever Steals This Book
