The Eccentric Family

Original Title:有頂天家族

Languages:

  • French: La famille excentrique
  • English: The Eccentric Family
  • Japanese: 有頂天家族
  • Chinese: 有顶天家族
The Eccentric Family (Japanese: 有頂天家族, Uchōten Kazoku) is a Japanese novel series written by Tomihiko Morimi. The story is set in modern-day Kyoto, where humans, tanuki (raccoon dogs), and tengu (long-nosed goblins) coexist. The tanuki family, Shimogamo, has the ability to transform into humans or any other animate or inanimate objects. The story revolves around Yasaburo, the third son of the Shimogamo family, who leads a carefree life and often visits his tengu teacher, Professor Akadama. Through Akadama, Yasaburo becomes acquainted with Benten, a mysterious human woman who was taught to fly by Akadama. Meanwhile, the Shimogamo family also struggles to uncover the truth behind the untimely death of their father, a former tanuki leader, who was killed by a human group called the "Friday Fellows". The series explores themes of family, responsibility, and finding one's place in a strange world. The series consists of two novels, published in 2007 and 2015 respectively, and has been adapted into two anime seasons. The anime is produced by P.A. Works, with the first season airing in 2013 and the second in 2017. It is known for its unique fantastical world and charming characters.