Fans and editors gathered in Tokyo on Tuesday to mark the release of "Eternal Memory," the final novel by Keigo Higashino [1, 2].
The event serves as a poignant farewell to one of Japan's most influential authors, who died in July at age 68 [1]. Higashino's death left a significant void in the mystery genre, making the publication of this posthumous work a major cultural moment for his readership.
Four editors, including Toma Akizuki, joined approximately 50 fans [1] at the Kinokuniya Bookstore Shinjuku main store for a countdown event. The gathering began at 10:30 p.m. on Aug. 4 and culminated at midnight on Aug. 5 [1, 3], the official release time of the book [3].
During the event, editors shared behind-the-scenes stories regarding the writing process of the new title. The novel is the latest entry in the Galileo series, a franchise that has reached approximately 16 million copies in circulation [5] and recently marked its 30th anniversary [6].
Akizuki spoke about the author's deep connection to his audience and the physical spaces where they interact with his work.
"Higashino-san was a writer who was loved by readers all over Japan, I feel this from the bottom of my heart," Akizuki said [1]. "Higashino-san was a writer who loved nothing more than surprising the reader. Therefore, he placed great importance on bookstores, the place where readers and books meet. That is why I believe he was looking forward to this day."
The event focused on gratitude toward the readers, and the shared experience of Higashino's legacy. The atmosphere remained reflective as the clock struck midnight, signaling the official availability of the latest Galileo mystery to the public [1, 3].
“Higashino-san was a writer who loved nothing more than surprising the reader.”
The release of 'Eternal Memory' represents the conclusion of the Galileo series, a cornerstone of modern Japanese detective fiction. By hosting the launch at a physical bookstore, the publishers are honoring Higashino's specific belief in the importance of the brick-and-mortar retail experience in the discovery of literature.
