The Little Sparrow Murders

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Renowned detective Kindaichi Kosuke, featured in 77 stories by Seishi Yokomizo, finds himself entangled in a series of murders in Kisui village, where a haunting ball game song circulates. This later work reflects Yokomizo's unique style, established since 1946, during a time of rapid change in post-war Japan, which influenced the mystery genre. By the time "The Demon’s Ball Game Song" was published, Yokomizo had become somewhat stagnant in his writing, ceasing activities after 1964, only to experience a resurgence a decade later with the film adaptation of "The Inugami Clan." This story serves as a poignant final challenge from a master, showcasing his skills at a pivotal moment in the evolving mystery landscape, aiming to create a national mystery that rivals Western classics. Set in 1955, during the 30th year of the Showa era, Kindaichi returns to Okayama Prefecture, reminiscing about past cases. He meets Inspector Isokawa at a tranquil hot spring in Kisui, where Isokawa recounts a 23-year-old incident that once unsettled the village. As preparations for a major festival unfold, the village chief mysteriously vanishes, and the famous actress Yukari Oozora's return heightens the tension. During the festival, her close friends become victims in a series of murders, each coinciding with the ominous ball game song.