Before Chainsaw Man (Vols. 17 - 21) - Tatsuki Fujimoto

Before Chainsaw Man: 17–21 collects four early short stories by visionary manga creator Tatsuki Fujimoto, written between the ages of 17 and 21. This collection offers a rare look into the young creator’s raw talent and evolving narrative voice before he took the manga world by storm with Chainsaw Man.

Each story in this anthology delivers a mix of emotional depth, absurdity, and originality, laying the groundwork for Fujimoto’s distinct style. From strange romances to poignant drama, 17–21 captures the essence of experimentation, creativity, and heartfelt storytelling.

Main Themes of the Book

• Existential Dread and Hope: Each story explores the complexities of human emotion, purpose, and the will to move forward.
• Dark Humor and Absurdity: Fujimoto’s offbeat sense of humor is present in surreal, unexpected ways.
• Human Connection: Themes of loneliness, love, and longing thread through each short tale.
• Creativity in Constraint: Witness the unrefined, bold storytelling that would define his later success.

Why you should read this manga

• A must-have for Chainsaw Man fans who want insight into Fujimoto's early work.
• Perfect for manga readers who appreciate standalone stories with emotional punch.
• Offers a glimpse into the mind of one of the most creative voices in modern manga.
• Compact, impactful stories that are easy to read but hard to forget.
• A unique mix of humor, melancholy, and narrative experimentation.

Tatsuki Fujimoto Before Chainsaw Man: 17–21 is more than a prelude—it’s a showcase of raw brilliance. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to his work, this collection reveals the early genius of a storyteller who would go on to reshape the manga landscape.