In Natsuko Imamura's poignant novella, Amiko is a young girl whose unique way of experiencing the world often leaves her misunderstood. Whether it's her uninhibited actions at school or her attempts to connect with her family, Amiko's vibrant and curious nature frequently meets with confusion rather than acceptance. As her mother grapples with depression and her brother seeks solace in a motorcycle gang, Amiko finds herself increasingly isolated, striving to make sense of a world that doesn't quite know how to make sense of her.

Why You Should Read?

• Explores neurodivergence with sensitivity, offering a tender portrayal of a young girl's journey for belonging.
• Provides a unique lens into contemporary Japanese family dynamics and societal interactions.
• Showcases the distinctive literary voice of Natsuko Imamura, author of the acclaimed The Woman in the Purple Skirt.
• A subtle, moving narrative that resonates with themes of loneliness, misunderstanding, and the search for connection.