Abstract

Yuto, a junior high school student, is preparing for his high school entrance exam. Yuto feels out of place in his family. His father has left him, his mother, and his talented older brother Naoto behind, and his mother showers all her attention on Naoto rather than Yuto.

During his daily run, he encounters a girl, named Akane, sitting on a swing in the park. Yuto finds himself attracted to Akane, despite the dark expression on her face. When Yuto learns that Akane is responsible for caring for her sick mother, younger sister, and household chores all by herself, he wants to help her.

This engaging children's book explores the importance of caring for others and brings to light the struggle of young caregivers through the eyes of Yuto and his love for Akane.

Author’s Information

Kyoko Hamano: Born in Kumamoto prefecture. She won JBBY Award and Tsubota Joji literary award.

Nakada Ikumi: Born in Saitama prefecture. She is mainly based in Japan and Taiwan. Her works are presented at solo exhibitions and other events.