Abstract

Set in 1970s Japan, this story depicts the bonds between a boy battling illness and the people he meets. Takano Taro, a first-year junior high school student, is forced into a long-term hospitalization due to a sudden illness, and suffers from loneliness and anxiety. However, with the support of his family and the people he meets at the hospital, he gradually opens up. His encounter with Umino Tamaki, a girl his own age, marks a major turning point. Taro is drawn to Tamaki, who possesses a quiet strength and kindness despite her serious illness, and the two bond through music. Taro works as a DJ at the hospital's radio station, delivering music to patients and their families, and discovers meaning in life. Tamaki becomes an avid listener, and the two cherish their limited days, sharing their dreams. However, Taro's condition worsens, and in his final broadcast, Taro expresses his gratitude to Tamaki and his friends before passing away peacefully. Tamaki takes his words to heart and vows to "live life to the fullest."

Author’s Information

Born in 1965 in Kagoshima, southern Japan, to parents who ran a barbershop. He lived in Kagoshima until graduating from Kagoshima University. During his university years, he studied abroad in the UK for two years, honing his English conversation skills. After graduating, he spent five years traveling to over 40 countries in Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, spending a year each in Australia and Israel. Running out of funds while in Europe, he returned to Japan from Russia on the Trans-Siberian Railway, a 10-day journey. After returning to Japan, he worked as a literary agent for five years at The English Agency (Japan), one of Japanese leading agencies. During his time as an agent, he worked with some of the world's leading publishers, including Random House and Penguin Books. He then left the agency to start his own agency and begin his own writing career. He is currently working on novels, including historical fiction. His novel "Hanaikusa(War of Flowers)," which explores the floral art of the Warring States period, was adapted into a film that won eight awards at the 41st Japan Academy Prize in 2018. His nine published novels include the best-selling "Little DJ," "Quartet," and "Koibumisanka(Love Letter Anthem)."