Abstract

A Japanese boy wandering the land of Cambodia is picked up by local street children. Even in a harsh environment, he finds friends, laughter, and trust. However, one morning, this very humble haven is suddenly shattered when a series of murders of unknown motives strikes them. What is the heart-wrenching truth that the boy finally discovers after suffering through his anguish? This is the first full-length novel by a major newcomer who was nominated for the Booksellers' Award for his debut novel, "Cry and Prayer," and has now won the 16th Oyabu Haruhiko Prize.

Author’s Information

Born in Tokyo in 1983, Shizaki graduated from the Faculty of Economics at Keio University. In 2008, he won the 5th Mysteries! Newcomer Award for his short story "The Road of a Ship Running Through the Desert." In 2010, he published a series called "Cries and Prayer," including the award-winning work, which won high praise, dominating the top ranks of various annual mystery rankings, including second place in the domestic category of Shukan Bunshun's Mystery Best 10, and was nominated for the 2011 Booksellers' Award. In 2013, he published his debut full-length novel, "I Don't Have to Cry: Riverside Children," which won the 16th Oyabu Haruhiko Prize.