Monster Signed Editions Reference

Monster is Urasawa’s masterwork — an eighteen-volume psychological thriller (serialized 1994–2001 in Big Comic Original) following Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a Japanese neurosurgeon in Germany who saves the life of a young boy named Johan Liebert, only to discover years later that Johan has become a prolific serial killer. Tenma’s pursuit of Johan across a post-reunification Europe encompasses Cold War history, the psychology of evil, and the question of whether one life is worth more than another.

English Editions

Viz published eighteen volumes in single format (2006–2008) and later released a Perfect Edition in nine double-volumes. First printings of the single volumes are the bibliographic firsts in English.

Signed Copy Market Values

• Signed English volumes: $200–$500 each
• Unsigned first printing volumes: $10–$25 each

Monster is widely considered the finest thriller manga ever created. Its influence on subsequent psychological thriller manga and anime is immeasurable.