Murdoku edition check

Murdoku green vs purple: are they the same book?

In most English-language listings, the purple North American cover and green UK-market cover represent regional editions of the original Book 1, not two separate puzzle volumes. Check the ISBN and title before buying.

Purple North American Murdoku Book 1 cover
Purple Book 1 cover used for the North American edition. Source: Murdoku official book page
Purple ISBN
9781454961796
Green UK ISBN
9781405985451
Main check
Title + ISBN + publisher

Why the cover color is confusing

Murdoku is published by different companies in different markets. Retailers often show only a cover thumbnail, so a color change can look like a new volume even when the listing is another regional edition of Book 1. Cover color alone is not a reliable series number.

Green UK Murdoku Book 1 cover
Green Book 1 cover shown by Penguin UK. Source: Penguin UK

Purple and green edition details

The official Murdoku book page groups the North American English and UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand English editions under the original book. The publishers and ISBNs differ, while the product remains Book 1.

EditionTypical coverPublisher/marketISBN
North American EnglishPurpleUnion Square & Co., US/Canada9781454961796
UK-market EnglishGreenPenguin Michael Joseph, UK/Ireland/Australia/NZ9781405985451
Book 2: Back in TimeSeparate sequel artworkRegional editions varyUS ISBN 9781454961802

How to avoid buying the same book twice

Open the full retailer description instead of relying on a marketplace thumbnail. Match the exact title, author Manuel Garand, ISBN, publisher, and whether the listing says Volume 2 or Back in Time.

  • If both listings describe the original 80 Murdoku cases, treat them as Book 1 editions until proven otherwise.
  • A translated cover may look completely different while still containing Book 1.
  • Use ISBNs to distinguish editions; use the volume title to distinguish content.

What about the orange or Back in Time cover?

Back in Time is Book 2 and is a genuinely different set of 80 cases. Its title is a stronger identifier than its cover color, because regional artwork can change.

Murdoku cover FAQ

Are green and purple Murdoku the same?

They are commonly regional English editions of Book 1. Verify the ISBN and full title because covers can change by market.

Which color is Murdoku Book 2?

Do not identify Book 2 by color alone. Look for the title Back in Time or Volume 2.

Why are the ISBNs different?

Regional publishers issue their own editions, so ISBN, cover, size, and production details may differ.

Which edition should I buy?

Choose the edition sold officially in your region unless language, size, or shipping gives you a reason to import another.

Related Murdoku guides

Sources checked

Cover art is shown for identification and comparison. Rights remain with the publishers and creator.