Fairy Tailhas been a cornerstone of Japanese pop culture ever since it first debuted in the pages ofWeekly Shonen Magazineback in 2006. Since then, the series—created by Hiro Mashima—has expanded to include a long-running TV anime, feature films, spin-offs, and more. And yet, despite its global popularity, some parts oftheFairy Tailfranchisehave never been available in English—until now.
Recently,Kodanshaannounced plans to releasean English-language edition ofMagnolia: FAIRY TAIL Complete Illustrations, a comprehensive hardcover art book by Hiro Mashima. Originally published in Japan, the collection features over 300 pages of full-color artwork from theFAIRY TAILmanga, including character designs, promotional illustrations, magazine covers, and previously unreleased pieces.
The book spans the entirety of the series, showcasing the visual evolution ofMashima’sFairy Tailworldand its characters. It also includes commentary from Mashima himself, offering insight into his creative process. Set to release in Fall 2025, this edition will mark the first time international fans can officially access this title in English.
Hiro Mashima’s Early Career and Breakthrough
A Global Hit and Expanding Universe
Hiro Mashima began his career in 1998 when he received recognition in theWeekly Shonen Magazine’s Newcomer Award for his workMAGICIAN, and made his official debut that same year withBAD BOYS SONGinMagazine FRESH. He gained early success withthe fantasy adventure seriesRAVE MASTER, which launched in 1999 and was later adapted into an anime. In 2006, Mashima began serialization ofFAIRY TAILinWeekly Shonen Magazine, a series that would go on to win the 33rd Kodansha Manga Award for Best Shonen Manga in 2009.
FAIRY TAILran for nearly eleven years, from 2006 to 2017, and concluded with a total of 63 collected volumes. The story follows the adventures of Natsu Dragneel, Lucy Heartfilia, and their guildmates in the magical world of Fairy Tail. With its energetic characters and fast-paced storytelling, the series attracted a broad international audience. It was adapted into a long-running anime beginning in 2009 and expanded into multiple films, spin-offs, and games, making it one of Mashima’s most enduring and recognizable works.
A New Fairy Tail Chapter On Screen
Art That Shaped A Shonen Classic
Recently,FAIRY TAILreturned to television withFAIRY TAIL: 100 Years Quest, the anime adaptation of the official sequel manga by Hiro Mashima and Atsuo Ueda. Premiering in July 2024, the series follows Natsu and his guild as they take on a legendary mission no one has completed in over a century.
With the anime back and the story continuing,Magnolia: FAIRY TAIL Complete Illustrationsarrives at a fitting time to look back. Through its pages, you can see how Mashima’s art has grown over the years, along with the imagination and energy he’s brought to the series from the very beginning.
Fairy Tail
Cast
Fairy Tail follows the adventures of Natsu Dragneel and his guild members in the land of Fiore. As a wizard in the Fairy Tail guild, Natsu searches for the dragon Igneel while undertaking missions that involve battling dark forces, protecting his friends, and uncovering ancient secrets. The series explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and magic, featuring a diverse cast of characters with unique magical abilities.
