A Veteran Shinchosha Editor Speaks: How to Enjoy Mysteries More — A Mystery Primer for Readers and Aspiring Writers

Reading and writing are two sides of the same coin. Knowing the writer's perspective makes reading even more enjoyable. From what viewpoint does an editor read a work? Behind-the-scenes stories that are a must-listen even for those aiming for newcomer prizes.

Instructor profile: Hisayuki Arai (新井久幸)

Born in Tokyo in 1969 and raised in Chiba Prefecture. Graduated from the Faculty of Law at Kyoto University. While at university he belonged to the Detective Fiction Research Society (Kyoto University Mystery Club). He joined Shinchosha in 1993. After editing magazines and books, he served as editor-in-chief of the magazine "Shōsetsu Shincho" for six years from 2010. He is currently head of the publishing department. Major works he has handled include 『夜のピクニック』（恩田陸）、『重力ピエロ』（伊坂幸太郎）、『ボトルネック』（米澤穂信）、『向日葵の咲かない夏』（道尾秀介） and the anthology "Story Seller." Last year he edited 『失われた貌』（櫻田智也）, which won a triple crown in mystery rankings.