Summer of thimble (Iwanami Bunko boy) (2009) ISBN: 4001141604

The detailed depiction of community life felt so authentic. I wonder if her own childhood or travels influenced this setting.

The story really captures childhood wonder, but I’m curious if younger readers today still connect with that innocence.

There are moments of struggle, but the overall tone remains hopeful. I wonder if that was a conscious choice by the author.