How Many Volumes Of Fruits Basket Are There

Okay, let's talk about Fruits Basket. Specifically, how many volumes exist. It seems like a simple question, right? Well, prepare for my slightly controversial, yet totally valid, take.
The easy answer is 23. Twenty-three volumes of pure, angsty, heartwarming goodness. But, BUT... is that really the whole story?
The Original vs. The Collector's Edition
See, there's the original run. Twenty-three volumes. That's what most people know and love. We devoured them. We cried along with Tohru.
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Then came the Collector's Edition. Twelve bigger, fancier volumes. Beautifully redesigned. Did they just squash the story down? More on this later.
So, Is It 23 or 12? My Unpopular Opinion
Here's where I get a little spicy. I say it’s BOTH. Hear me out! It depends on what you're asking.
If you're talking about the OG Fruits Basket experience? The one we all lined up for at the bookstore? It's 23.

But if you're talking about owning the entire story, physically? Then the 12 Collector's Editions absolutely count.
It's like saying, "How many Harry Potter books are there?" You wouldn't exclude the special editions, would you?
And let's not forget Fruits Basket Another! That's a whole other beast. Did you even remember that one? It's technically a sequel, but exists in the same universe.
Don't Forget Fruits Basket Another!
Fruits Basket Another has 3 volumes. It focuses on the next generation. It expands the world.

So, technically, if we're counting EVERYTHING Fruits Basket-related? We're inching closer to… well, a lot! This math is getting complicated.
Are we including fan books? Spin-offs? Merch that tells little stories? Okay, maybe I'm getting carried away. But the point is!
My Final (Probably Wrong) Answer
My official (and likely wrong) answer? It's complicated. It depends. It's all relative.
If you just want the core story, you have options. You get 23 original volumes, or 12 fancy Collector's Editions.

But if you want the FULL Fruits Basket experience, including the sequel? Then you need to factor in the 3 volumes of Another. Do you want to dive even deeper? I suggest you start with fan theories.
Basically, prepare to spend a lot of money and shelf space. Because Fruits Basket is worth it. Even if the volume count gives you a headache.
So, there you have it. My extremely nuanced (and probably confusing) answer to a seemingly simple question. Don't @ me. I stand by my truth.
In the end, does the number really matter? Isn't it about the journey? The love? The Zodiac curses? Okay, maybe the Zodiac curses are important too.

Ultimately, just enjoy the story! Whether you have 12 volumes, 23 volumes, or a digital subscription. That's what Natsuki Takaya wanted. Probably.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go reread the whole series again. For research purposes, of course.
And yes, I am fully aware that this article probably made things even MORE confusing. You're welcome!
Just remember Kyo's orange hair. Then you'll feel better.
