Abstract

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Selected as one of Apple Books’ Best Books of 2024.
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The “Best Books of 2024” is an annual selection curated by Apple Books editors, featuring five outstanding novels and five manga titles published during the year, along with three notable debut works.

The world is full of gentle miracles.
A master of healing and fantasy, Saki Murayama presents five deeply moving tales in her finest work to date—by the author nominated for the Japan Booksellers’ Award.

A heartbroken young man.
A girl mourning her grandfather.
A crime novelist stuck in creative despair.
A shy boy who finds solace in books.
A woman writer facing an uncertain future...

From the Showa era to Reiwa, these tender stories follow people living quietly on the edges of society. Across time and space, their hidden emotional wounds are soothed by small, magical encounters.

Each story is a miracle of warmth—illuminating the heart with soft light amid the harsh winds of our age.

This is Murayama’s most beloved prayer—
a testament to how sincere wishes for others can summon gentle miracles.

Five stories wrapped in love.
A breathtaking collection of short fiction.

[Table of Contents]
In the City Where Stars Fall - 005
Chīko, Who Travels Through Time - 061
The Leap Year Bridge - 119
The Wind and Light of That Summer - 183
The Twins of the Evening Star - 233
Afterword - 287

Author’s Information

Born in 1963 in Nagasaki Prefecture, she began submitting her work to literary contests while still a student and made her official debut after graduation. In 1991, she won the Grand Prize at the 15th Mainichi Children's Story Newcomer Awards. Her award-winning debut work Chiisai Eri-chan later earned her the 4th Hirosuke Hanatono Children’s Literature Award in 1994.

She was twice nominated for the Japan Booksellers’ Award, for The Story of Oukazedou (2017) and The Magic of the Department Store (2018).

Her other notable works include The Adventures of Princess Sheher, The Witches Who Guard Sleep, The Port of Wind, The Enchanted Café NEKOMIMI, and The Stars Are Bright Tonight. She is also the author of several beloved series such as Twilight Convenience Store, Ryugu Hotel, The Hanasaki Family, and Kanariya-so Roman.

Her writing spans a wide range—from children’s literature to fantasy for adult readers.