Young Magazine US, representing Kodansha USA Publishing, has announced the availability of the first chapter of the popular crime-suspense thriller manga, "My Home Hero," for free online. This initiative is part of their ongoing "#FirstChaptersOfLegends" campaign, designed to introduce new readers to iconic manga series. The announcement highlights the series with the compelling tagline, "A story of guilt, love, and violence."
The tweet from Young Magazine US, dated August 7, 2025, directly challenges potential readers with the question, "What would you do to protect your family? Read the first chapter for free —then decide." This direct appeal underscores the manga's central theme of paternal protection against overwhelming odds. The availability of the initial chapter serves as a strategic marketing move to engage a broader audience.
"My Home Hero" is written by Naoki Yamakawa and illustrated by Masashi Asaki. The series, which concluded its serialization in Kodansha's Weekly Young Magazine in Japan in July 2024, has garnered significant attention for its intense narrative. It follows Tetsuo Tosu, an ordinary salaryman who finds himself embroiled in the dangerous world of the yakuza after taking extreme measures to protect his daughter.
Kodansha USA Publishing, a prominent subsidiary of Japan's largest publisher, Kodansha, licenses and distributes "My Home Hero" in North America. The manga has achieved considerable success, with over 2 million copies in circulation by June 2022, and was adapted into an anime television series in April 2023. Offering free initial chapters is a common strategy within the manga industry to attract new readership and encourage full volume purchases.
This promotional effort allows potential fans to delve into the high-stakes, psychological thriller that has been praised for its intricate plot and suspenseful storytelling. The series is known for its exploration of themes such as family loyalty, moral ambiguity, and the lengths one will go to ensure the safety of loved ones.