700,000 Copies Sold: 'Strange Maps' Wins Okinawa Bookstore Award; Masked Writer Uketsu Delights Venue with Video Performance and Guitar Playing

The award ceremony for the 12th Okinawa Bookstore Award, where Okinawan bookstore clerks select the book they 'most want people to read now,' was held on the 20th at Tenbusu Hall in Naha City, Okinawa. From among many works, the Grand Prize in the Novel category was awarded to 'Strange Maps' (Futabasha), a buzzworthy work by the world-renowned horror mystery writer Uketsu. Released on October 31, 2025, this work had an extraordinary start with a total of 250,000 copies, including an initial print run of 200,000 and a pre-release reprint of 50,000. Immediately after its release, it sold out at bookstores across the country. It topped various bookstore rankings and has continued to be a record-breaking hit, surpassing a cumulative total of 700,000 copies in just over a month. This award has further heightened its evaluation and recognition. Uketsu previously won the Grand Prize at the 9th Okinawa Bookstore Award in 2023 with 'Strange Pictures' (Futabasha), making this a remarkable second win. Uketsu, known as a masked writer, did not appear on stage this time either, but appeared in a pre-recorded award comment video. Remaining in the 'bizarre' style of a white mask and black tights, Uketsu said, 'I haven't been to Okinawa yet, so I'd like to take a walk there someday,' which elicited laughter from the audience due to the surreal comment. Furthermore, in the video, Uketsu performed a guitar piece, a skill they are known for. Playing 'Michishirube ~a road home~' by ORANGE RANGE in honor of Okinawa, Uketsu greatly excited the venue with their unique presence. Uketsu continues to captivate readers with a strong visual of a white mask and black tights and unpredictable expressions. 'Strange Maps' is likely to see further growth following this award. Uketsu (Uketsu): A web writer and masked author specializing in horror styles. Also active as a YouTuber, with over 1.89 million subscribers and over 200 million total video views. Characterized by a white mask and black full-body tights. Following the debut 'Strange House' series (Asuka Shinsha), 'Strange Pictures' (Futabasha) was also adapted into a comic and has become a global million-seller with a cumulative 2.1 million copies. Its popularity has crossed the sea, with translated publications decided in 39 countries and regions across five continents, including the US, UK, France, Korea, China, Brazil, and Morocco.