Comedian Ryo Fukawa's Essay Collection 'I Decided to Live Alone' to be Released as a Shincho Bunko Paperback on June 24, 2026

Shinchosha Publishing Co., Ltd. will publish the paperback 'I Decided to Live Alone' by Ryo Fukawa on June 24, 2026. This is the second work from the Shincho Bunko label by Fukawa, whose 'contrarian' nature knows no bounds. Please enjoy the ever more powerful Fukawa world.

The long-awaited paperback edition of the popular essays by Ryo Fukawa, who cannot overlook 'discomfort,' detailing his unique obsessions!

● The definition of 'Shonan' that he can't stop thinking about
● The aesthetics of the person treating and the consideration of the person being treated
● The entertainment world as a game of musical chairs
● His own job title that never feels quite right
● A surprising comment from Minami Tanaka

And more... Open the book, and you are sure to become captivated by this complexity.

■ Newly includes a bonus track written for the paperback: 'Disqualified as a Comedian'

Three years after the publication of the hardcover 'I Decided to Live Alone.' During this period leading up to the paperback release, Fukawa's contrariness remains strong! Having been in the entertainment industry for 30 years, what customs does he secretly wish would disappear? Also, what kind of 'laughter' does he seek so much that he says, 'If this could happen again, I wouldn't mind being disqualified as a comedian'? The wishes of comedian Ryo Fukawa are here – a bonus track that even readers of the hardcover should read.

■ Excerpt from the commentary by Sawako Agawa, 'Inside the Fluffy Fukawa Costume'

I first encountered Fukawa's writing about five or six years ago when I read his essay collection 'Not Keeping Pace with the World.' I remember being impressed, thinking, 'Why does he notice these things?' In the chapter 'All-You-Can-Eat Hell,' where he mutters, 'I'll never have a takoyaki party again,' I laughed until I cried. The melody that announces 'Your bath is ready' at home is actually a dignified classical piece called 'The Doll's Dream and Awakening.' I thought, what a person to notice such things.

Fukawa brilliantly analyzes, resolves, and clears away the everyday 'niggles' and vague doubts that we tend to overlook or dismiss as not worth mentioning. His effect is truly like a refreshing digestive tonic.

■ A message from Ryo Fukawa

The official title is 'I Decided to Live Alone (Tears).'

I hope it doesn't reach many people.

■ Book Description

Even when he hears a voice in his head saying, 'Fukawa, whatever, it doesn't matter,' the contrarian Ryo Fukawa finds a universe in the corners that everyone else glosses over. As he enters middle age, his obsessions, which he can't easily abandon, only increase. These 22 essays unfold as he spreads the wings of imagination and delusion, even while being hurt by the casual jabs of his junior comedians. This paperback edition specially includes the bonus track 'Disqualified as a Comedian.' (Commentary by Sawako Agawa)

■ Author Profile: Ryo Fukawa

Born in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture in 1974. Debuted as a comedian at age 20 while a student at Keio University. He broke through with his 'Overcoming Timidity Course' act, wearing long hair and a white hair turban, which laid the foundation for the later 'Aru Aru' (things we all know) comedy style. Since then, his activities have ranged widely, including TV and radio appearances, writing, and DJing, but he has a strong aversion to being called a 'multi-talent.' In 2025, he won the 'Librarians' Choice! Gifu Book Award' for 'Traveling Without My Smartphone.' His other books include the essays 'Not Keeping Pace with the World' and 'I Wasn't Born in Tokyo,' and the novel 'I Quit Being a Good Person.' He also releases many songs under the name ROCKETMAN.

■ Bibliographic Information

[Title] I Decided to Live Alone (Shincho Bunko)
[Author] Ryo Fukawa
[Release Date] June 24, 2026; e-book also available on the same day
[Price] 649 yen (tax included)
[ISBN] 978-4-10-104782-9