Japanese Mystery Novelist Keigo Higashino Dies at 68

Keigo Higashino, a celebrated figure in Japanese mystery fiction, has passed away at the age of 68. His publisher, Kodansha, announced his death on Monday, stating he died on July 23 from colorectal cancer. Higashino authored more than a hundred books during his career, with sales exceeding 100 million copies in Japan alone. His novels have been translated and published in 41 countries and territories worldwide, solidifying his international reputation. Many of his works have also been adapted for screen, with over twenty of his books becoming films or television series. Higashino gained recognition in France, receiving the International Novel Prize at the Polar de Cognac festival in 2010 for "La maison où je suis mort autrefois" (The House Where I Died Before). He is also known for titles such as "The Devotion of Suspect X" and "A Midsummer's Equation." Born in Osaka in 1958, Higashino began his literary career after winning the prestigious Edogawa Ranpo Prize in 1985 for his novel "Hokago" (After School). His passing marks a significant loss for the literary world, with fans expressing deep admiration for his storytelling. "The stories he wrote will undoubtedly continue to captivate countless readers," Kodansha stated in their announcement, noting that his funeral has already been held privately.