Honda, Tooru

Honda Toru (本田透) was born May 12th, 1969 in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture and became a prominent social critical responding to criticism towards otaku, masculinity and self-actualization. He attended Waseda University where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the Department of Human Sciences. Honda found success in 2005 with the publication of Denpa Otoko, a direct response directed towards the novel, manga and TV drama Densha Otoko. In it he revealed radical ideas regarding the preservation of a pure otaku mindset, the viability of finding love with two-dimensional characters, discussions of moé, and highlighting problems in society as a result of "Love Capitalism." His unfiltered critiques and relatable nature set him apart and established popularity within otaku circles, with his novel selling 33,000 copies in the first three months. As a professional writer, Honda Toru was very prolific during a period between 2005 and 2014, his publications ranged from social commentary essays to a number of light novels in late 2007. Honda has also worked on a number of other projects not limited to light novels or social commentary, including co-authoring various compilations and writing the script for the 8th episode of Kannagi.