``Kojikoji'' is a manga that is popular for its meaningful words and nonsensical gags that even adults will be surprised by. More than 30 years have passed since the creation of the main character, the "space lifeform" Kojikoji, and the series is attracting attention, especially among people in their 20s and 30s, for its cuteness and fun, as well as the depth of the work.

At PLAY! MUSEUM in Tachikawa, Tokyo, the first-ever Kojikoji exhibition “Kojikoji Expo” was held from April to July 2022. Through installations of the "fairy tale country" where the Kojikojis live, original drawings from manga and illustrations, and original videos, we will introduce a number of unique characters, famous quotes, and the main story in an experiential manner. Just like in the real world, Kojikoji brightly and happily embraces his friends who are struggling with friendship, love, and self-discovery, and we explore the charm of this work, which sublimates everything into laughter.

This book is a long-awaited book for fans that serves as an exhibition catalog and fully conveys the charm of Kojikoji. In addition to manga original drawings of famous scenes where you can feel the breath of author Momoko Sakura, we will also introduce treasure-class color drawings such as Kojikoji, Maru-chan and Kojikoji, and the cover art that appear for the first time. Furthermore, the world of Kojikoji, with its nonsense gags, ambiguous characters, and intertwined human patterns, will be thoroughly explained with plenty of illustrations and text. Also included are special contributions from writer Banana Yoshimoto, who is close friends with Momoko Sakura, and comedian Yuki Iwai (Haraichi), as well as special interviews with Denki Groove, who were in charge of the anime's ending. This is the definitive edition for everyone who loves Kojikoji.

©MOMOKO SAKURA 2022

Editing: Aya Nagaoka, Chihiro Okuyama, Reiko Imamura
Binding: Akiko Higasa
Specifications: A5, average size, 280 pages
ISBN: 978-4-908356-37-7

■Sakura Momoko
Born in 1965 in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture (formerly Shimizu City). Debuted as a manga artist in 1984. His representative works include Chibi Maruko-chan'', ``Kojikoji'', ``Kami no Chikarakko Shimbun'', and the self-parody manga ``Chibi Shikaku-chan''. His essays ``Momonokandume'', ``Saru no Koshikake'', and ``Tai no Okashira'' (all published by Shueisha) have been million sellers for three consecutive years. His works are wide-ranging, including comics, picture books, essays, and songs he has written. Passed away in 2018.

[Staff review]

staff:Akatsuka
Key points: This book is the catalogue for Coji-Coji's first exhibition, "Coji-Coji Expo." It's packed with history, so it's a bible-like book that can be enjoyed by Coji-Coji fans as well as those who aren't.

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