“Books Bought with Taxes” Manga Gets Anime and Live-Action Adaptations
The Japanese manga series Zeikin de Katta Hon (税金で買った本; lit. ‘Books Bought with Tax’) by Zuino and Kei Keiyama is set to expand its reach with both an anime and a live-action television drama adaptation. The manga, which began its life on Kodansha’s YanMaga Web platform in August 2021 before moving to Weekly Young Magazine in December of the same year, currently boasts 18 volumes (tankōbon).
Plot Summary
The story centers around Ishidaira Keiichi, a rebellious high school student who unexpectedly finds himself working part-time at a library. His journey begins when he discovers he never returned a book borrowed ten years prior. To rectify the situation, he purchases a replacement and, through a series of events, secures a job at the library, rediscovering his love for reading in the process. Alongside his colleagues, Hayasemaru and Shirai, he tackles challenges related to book maintenance and unravels the mysteries surrounding them.
Live-Action Drama Details
A live-action adaptation is scheduled to premiere on NHK General TV in the third quarter of 2026. Details regarding casting and specific broadcast dates have not yet been released.
Anime Adaptation
An anime television series adaptation is likewise in development, though specific details regarding the studio, release date, and cast remain undisclosed as of February 28, 2026.
Characters
- Kiichi Ishidaira (石平 紀一, Ishidaira Kiichi): A high school student whose tough exterior hides a natural curiosity and a passion for learning.
- Sayaka Hayasemaru (早瀬丸 小夜香, Hayasemaru Sayaka): A librarian who guides Ishidaira back to reading and introduces him to the world of library operations.
- Satoyuki Shirai (白井 里雪, Shirai Satoyuki): A librarian who works closely with Hayasemaru.
Zeikin de Katta Hon offers a unique blend of comedy and slice-of-life elements, exploring the world of libraries and the power of books.