#Japan #Tokyo #Gakken #The Geese #Five Minutes Later

Celebrating a Unique Collaboration

In a surprising collaboration, Kazuyuki Takasa, a member of the renowned comedy duo The Geese, has crafted an original work titled "Meisui" (Great Reasoning). This piece is set to be released for free on July 15, 2025, to commemorate the 10th anniversary and 5 million copies sold of the popular short story series “Five Minutes Later.” This announcement was made by Gakken Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Gakken Holdings based in Shinagawa, Tokyo.

A Milestone Celebration

The “Five Minutes Later” series has become a household favorite across various age groups, particularly among middle and high school students. Marking this significant milestone of 10 years, the series has achieved an impressive circulation of 5 million copies. In this spirit, Gakken has teamed up with Kazuyuki Takasa, a finalist in the King of Comedy contest, to deliver a fresh narrative that embodies the wit and unexpected twists the series is known for.

About the New Work: 'Meisui'

Takasa's contribution, "Meisui," adds to the rich tapestry of the “Five Minutes Later” collection. The series is acclaimed for its surprise endings, engaging readers with humor, suspense, and emotional depth in succinct forms. With stories that vary from laughter-inducing scenarios to thrilling conclusions, it keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Alongside the special release of Takasa's work, a new book titled "Five Minutes Later: Sepia-colored Screen" featuring this original narrative will be available on July 24, 2025. This new publication will promise more of the series’ signature twists and surprises.

The Impact of the Series

The “Five Minutes Later” series has made waves in popular culture, even being adapted into a live-action drama aired in September 2022 on YTV. The series not only captivates young readers but has also garnered accolades on various platforms, including being ranked as the top book among middle school boys and girls for multiple consecutive years in school library surveys. The series truly resonates with its audience, bridging the gap between entertainment and literary achievement.

Given its ongoing success, the series showcases a variety of genres, from humor to horror and science fiction, effectively engaging a wide array of audiences. Furthermore, the collection’s editor showcased a selection of adult-oriented stories in a compilation published by Kodansha, making it a bestseller as well.

Who is Kazuyuki Takasa?

Kazuyuki Takasa was born on September 2, 1980, in Hakodate City, Hokkaido. Not only is he a talented comedian, but he is also skilled in various arts including pantomime, dancing, magic, and harp. His diverse interests extend to participating in ping-pong competitions and achieving certifications in kanji and world heritage.

His multifaceted background enriches his storytelling capabilities, making his addition to the “Five Minutes Later” series a unique fusion of comedy and narrative depth.

Access the Original Work

Readers interested in experiencing Takasa's special piece can access it through the following link: Read 'Meisui' for Free Here

For further reading, the recently released book and other related content can be found on Gakken's official websites.

As expected from a series that continues to win hearts, “Five Minutes Later” remains a staple in the literary landscape, offering a blend of unexpected endings and compelling tales that encourage quick reading while leaving readers in awe. The collaboration with Kazuyuki Takasa is just another feather in the cap for Gakken, ensuring the legacy of this popular series continues for years to come.