Character Book (issued on May 20th 2001 in Japan)

What is it ? This book was issued after the series first started, and gathers 14 pages of color illustrations and 38 pages in black and white introducing the characters, along with interviews. The only disadvantage is that it is entirely written in japanese, but Random Fandom published a translation on its mailing List (Fruitygroup).

Where to find it ? This kind of publication is usually intended fot Japan only. It can also be ordered on websites such as Amazon or eBay.

Artbook FB – 1998 – 2002 (issued on April th 2004 in Japan)

What is it ? This is the only genuine FB artbook featuring all of Natsuki Takaya’s illustrations (as well as a few unpublished pictures). The illustrations are sorted chronologically, and are printed in big size, on high quality paper.
The double cover is extremely beautiful.

Where to find it ? Same as for the Character book, on eBay or Amazon. The average price for that book is 45 euros, which, if we take its quality into consideration, is a reasonable price.

GuideBook 2005 (issued on May 19th in Japan)

What is it ? If the first Character Book was all about introducing the characters and the Artbook was more into illustrations by Takaya, this guideBook gathers everything a fan could dream of ! Included in this book are outstanding colored pictures, stickers, a graphic tutorial made by Natsuki Takaya herself for Fruits Basket pictures’ colorisation, a diagram of the character relationships, an illustrated timeline, illustrated and detailed character profiles, a ranking of the best duos (according to some Japanese poll), two Q&A interviews of the author, games, quizzes, commented scenes, a story board and also, at the very end of the book, 8 pages of never published before comics.

Where to find it ? Same as the two previous books, on eBay or Amazon.
The guideBook is the same size as a normal tankobon book.

Bonus : preview GuideBook

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