Four Lives Remain: Tatsuya Endo Before Spy x Family - Tatsuya Endo

Four Lives Remain offers an intriguing glimpse into the early storytelling of Tatsuya Endo, the acclaimed creator of Spy x Family. This collection brings together four standalone stories, each showcasing a different narrative style and genre—from supernatural suspense to dystopian drama. Though written before his breakout hit, these works demonstrate Endo's emerging talent for emotionally charged plots, compelling characters, and creative world-building.

Main Themes of the Book

• Fate vs. Free Will: Several stories explore how characters face predetermined outcomes and fight to change them.
• Human Nature & Morality: Endo questions what it means to be good or evil in desperate situations.
• Identity & Belonging: Each protagonist grapples with personal identity, isolation, and the desire for connection.
• Sacrifice: Characters often must make difficult choices that weigh personal safety against protecting others.

Why you should read this manga 

• Discover the creative roots of Tatsuya Endo before Spy x Family.
• Each story presents a unique genre experience—from thriller to drama to the surreal.
• A must-have for fans of anthology manga and short-form storytelling.
• Offers fast-paced, emotional plots with strong character moments.
• Visually rich with Endo’s signature balance of dramatic intensity and human vulnerability.

Four Lives Remain is a powerful anthology that reveals the early brilliance of Tatsuya Endo. With tightly woven plots and emotionally resonant themes, this collection is both a compelling read on its own and a fascinating look at the evolution of one of today’s most celebrated manga creators. Whether you're a die-hard Spy x Family fan or new to Endo’s work, this volume is a rewarding exploration of life, loss, and what remains when everything else fades.