Carlo Zen, the author best known for the dark military fantasy series “Saga of Tanya the Evil,” has launched a new manga series. The new series is titled Hoshinaki Sekai no Annainin (Guides to a Starless World). Here’s everything we know about this exciting new project from the creative mind behind Tanya von Degurechaff’s adventures.
Who is Carlo Zen?
Carlo Zen is a Japanese novelist and game scenario writer. He is best known for writing the light novel series “The Saga of Tanya the Evil” (幼女戦記, Yōjo Senki), which gained immense popularity and has been adapted into a manga, anime series, and a film. Zen originally published “The Saga of Tanya the Evil” on the user-generated novel publishing website Arcadia. Enterbrain published the first volume of the series in June 2013.
Zen maintains a low profile, and little is known about his personal life. His pen name is based on the Venetian admiral Carlo Zeno. Zen’s work is known for its complex narratives, detailed world-building, and morally ambiguous characters.
Other Works by Carlo Zen
Besides “The Saga of Tanya the Evil,” Carlo Zen has also written other novels, including:
- Yakusoku no Kuni (約束の国)
- Seventh Dragon 3 UE72 Mikan no Yūma (セブンスドラゴン3 UE72 未完のユウマ)
- Jyūma Taisen Okotahakarigoto Renri (銃魔大戦 怠謀連理)
He also wrote the story for the manga Baikoku Kikan – The queen of the opera. Additionally, Zen is credited as the original creator for the anime series Isekai Quartet and Yakitori: Soldiers of Misfortune.
What is Hoshinaki Sekai no Annainin About?
Hoshinaki Sekai no Annainin (Guides to a Starless World) centers around a Destination Management Company. This unique company offers personalized, one-on-one guided tours to lost foodies, leading them to the world’s finest cuisine.
Who is Issei Hatsuyoshiya?
Issei Hatsuyoshiya is the artist collaborating with Carlo Zen on Hoshinaki Sekai no Annainin. Hatsuyoshiya is best known for their work on the manga Cells at Work! Code Black.
Where is the Manga Published?
Hoshinaki Sekai no Annainin is published in Kodansha’s digital Morning two Magazine. The series launched on May 8, 2025.
“The Saga of Tanya the Evil” Overview
“The Saga of Tanya the Evil” is a Japanese light novel series written by Carlo Zen and illustrated by Shinobu Shinotsuki. The story follows Tanya Degurechaff, a ruthless and intelligent soldier who is the reincarnation of a Japanese salaryman who rejected God. As punishment, he is reborn as a little girl in a war-torn world resembling early 20th-century Europe. Tanya is determined to climb the ranks of the military and live a comfortable life, but her actions often lead to unintended consequences and further entanglement in the war.
Adaptations of “The Saga of Tanya the Evil”
The light novel series has been adapted into several forms:
- Manga: A manga adaptation illustrated by Chika Tōjō began serialization in Kadokawa Shoten’s Comp Ace magazine in April 2016.
- Anime: An anime television series adaptation premiered in January 2017. Crunchyroll streamed the series as it aired, and Funimation streamed an English dub.
- Film: An anime film with the same staff and cast was released in Japan in February 2019. Crunchyroll screened the film in the United States in May 2019 and began streaming it in September 2019.
Other Manga by Carlo Zen
Besides “The Saga of Tanya the Evil” and Hoshinaki Sekai no Annainin, Carlo Zen has also written Baikoku Kikan. Another military manga written by Carlo Zen is Ashita no Teki to Kyō no Akushu wo.
Where to Read Carlo Zen’s Works
Carlo Zen’s works are available in various formats and locations:
- Light Novels and Manga: Yen Press licenses both “The Saga of Tanya the Evil” light novel and manga series for North America. They are available at major book retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Indigo.
- Online Platforms: Crunchyroll streams the anime adaptation of “The Saga of Tanya the Evil”.
Final Thoughts
Carlo Zen’s new manga series, Hoshinaki Sekai no Annainin, promises a delightful escape into the world of culinary exploration. Partnering with Issei Hatsuyoshiya, known for their art in Cells at Work! Code Black, the series is poised to deliver a unique and engaging story. For fans of Carlo Zen’s previous work, this new manga offers a fresh perspective, blending his storytelling with the enticing theme of gourmet cuisine.
