"Why is this character on the cover?!" Even the author jokes about it! SPY x FAMILY Vol. 17 released, "Auntie Tonito" cover becomes a hot topic

Tatsuya Endo, the creator of SPY x FAMILY, has updated his official X account to announce the release of Volume 17, sparking a massive buzz among fans.

Endo reported, "SPY x FAMILY Vol. 17 will be released tomorrow, April 3rd," and shared two images. The first is the cover of Volume 17, featuring the logo set diagonally against a green background and Donna Schlag—better known as "Auntie Tonito"—sitting regally in a chair with lightning crackling at her fingertips. Regarding the choice of character, Endo humorously remarked, "Those who haven't read the story yet might think, 'Why is this person on the cover?!' but I hope you can bear with me," while also sharing the design background of the featured chair.

The second image shows a square Anya papercraft included with the special edition. Endo revealed his struggle with the assembly, admitting, "I tried making an Anya myself, but between my clumsiness and my aging eyes, just this one nearly broke my spirit." He encouraged fans by saying, "Please stay strong and do your best when you assemble yours."

Fans reacted enthusiastically to the unexpected cover star with comments such as, "I never thought the day would come when Auntie Tonito graced the cover," "Oh, she's the one whose likability skyrocketed," "That's because she has a total hero episode," and "Your impression of her changes 180 degrees in this volume."

(C)Tatsuya Endo/Shueisha, SPY x FAMILY Project