'The Town Map Is Full of Terror': New Children's Horror Book Set in Familiar Streets Launches July 16

Takeshobo Co., Ltd. (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President & CEO: Junko Miyata) will release the children's book 'The Town Map Is Full of Terror' on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

'The Town Map Is Full of Terror' Book Cover

The Town Map Is Full of Terror

Author: Iruka Nanakura Illustrator: Yuna Ichijo

◆ Release Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026

◆ Format: B6 size, 272 pages

◆ Price: ¥1,925 (tax included)

Takeshobo Official Website:

https://www.takeshobo.co.jp/book/b10167980.html

❑ Synopsis

During summer vacation, fifth-grader Takehiro begins creating a map of his hometown. But this is no ordinary map—it’s a special one where he marks locations where eerie events have occurred with a 'Mystery' symbol. At first, he starts casually, but as the map fills with 'Mystery' marks, Takehiro begins to realize that countless wonders and oddities are hidden within the familiar streets of his town.

This novel originates from 'Kakuyomu,' a web fiction submission site, and is a juvenile horror story that blends the universally relatable theme of 'maps' with supernatural phenomena, set in an everyday town. A thrilling narrative where adventure and fear intertwine, gradually transforming the familiar scenery into another world, drawing readers deep into its story.

'The Town Map Is Full of Terror' Promotional Video

❏ Editor’s Highlights

Remember exploring your neighborhood as a child, map in hand with friends? The thrilling sense of adventure, and the inexplicable fear that creeps in as dusk approaches—few works bring back that vivid 'feeling of summer' so powerfully.

With every page turn, your heart leaps with anticipation: 'What’s next?' As you’re drawn into the mysteries of the supernatural events, what remains after finishing the book isn’t just fear. The children’s pure curiosity and friendship, the stories embedded in the town, and the unique magic of summer vacation—all are carefully layered, culminating in a powerful emotional experience.

The moment you finish, you’ll want to start reading from the beginning again. And you’ll feel inspired to walk through your own town with fresh eyes. This is a gem of a juvenile horror novel that offers such a reading experience. We confidently recommend it not only to children who love scary stories but also to adults who once cherished their summer breaks. We hope this becomes a new summer classic for readers everywhere.

❑ Author Information

Iruka Nanakura

Born in the Kansai region, currently residing in Kanto.

Dreams of traveling across Japan with her toy poodle, Natts.

Loves old maps, mysterious tales, fish dishes, vegetable gardening, and traveling.

And, of course, writing stories.

She continues to search for 'mysteries' hidden somewhere in the world.

Someday, she’d love to visit your town too.

Author X Account: https://x.com/nanakura_pc

Author Profile Image

Takeshobo Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1972, Takeshobo is a publishing company specializing in magazines such as 'Kindai Mahjong,' as well as books, comics, photo books, and DVDs.

https://www.takeshobo.co.jp/