#Japan #Osaka #reading skills #Miyake Kaho #Minerva Publishing

Inspiring the Future: A Special Class on Language Expression

On December 17, 2025, a unique educational event took place at Osaka International Junior High School and High School, where renowned literary critic Kaho Miyake conducted a special workshop for around 300 middle school students. This initiative was organized by Mynavi Publishing, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, with the aim of enhancing young students' language expression abilities and fostering a deeper connection with literature and the publishing industry.

The Essence of Reading: Expanding Perspectives

Kaho Miyake, who has authored popular works such as The Art of Articulating Your Love, kicked off the session by passionately explaining the transformative power of reading. She emphasized that reading transcends conventional wisdom and introduces new values and perspectives. To illustrate the connection between reading and expression, she referred to writing book reports as a concrete example, urging students to share their insights and newfound understandings derived from their literary experiences.

Key Techniques for Language Expression

During her presentation, Miyake highlighted two crucial strategies for effective language expression: specificity and personalization. She used her own reading experience with Night Picnic by Riku Onda as a demonstration of these techniques. By encouraging students to think about how they could personalize their interpretations, she engaged them in contemplating their thoughts and feelings about the text. Students listened intently and took diligent notes, eager to absorb every detail of her advice.



In the latter part of the workshop, students had the opportunity to put these techniques into practice during a hands-on activity. They reflected on positive experiences from the past year and worked on articulating these moments more clearly, intertwining their narratives with personal context.

Reflections from Mynavi's Leadership

After the event concluded, Mynavi's President, Teruki Kadotake, expressed hope that the students would rediscover the joys of reading and the fascinating aspects of language expression through this workshop. He emphasized the company's ongoing commitment to engaging with younger generations and promoting the delightful world of literature and language.

Background of the Initiative

Mynavi Publishing upholds the philosophy of 'co-creating your future through knowledge, learning, and business experiences.' Rather than only disseminating information through traditional publishing, the company aims to provide experiential learning opportunities and platforms for readers to communicate with one another. Strongly believing in the potential of the younger generation, Mynavi is dedicated to providing them with new values and experiences.

As a continuation of this initiative, a previous workshop was held in June 2025, wherein Mynavi's editors engaged students in understanding the publishing industry, specifically the often-hidden roles of magazine editors. The recent workshop at Osaka International Junior High School and High School is the second installment of this ongoing educational endeavor, facilitated by Kaho Miyake's enthusiastic support.

About the Speaker: Kaho Miyake

Kaho Miyake, born in 1994 in Kochi, is a respected literary critic and a part-time lecturer at Kyoto City University of Arts. She left her doctoral studies at Kyoto University to pursue her career in literature. Her impressive portfolio includes works like 50 Life-Altering Classics and Buzz-Worthy Writing Workshop, among others, and she remains a strong advocate for literature's ability to shape thought and culture.

Going forward, Mynavi Publishing aims to continuously support the potential and aspirations of the younger generation through various activities designed to illuminate their future.

About Mynavi Publishing

Mynavi Publishing became an independent entity in October 2015, having emerged from the publishing division of Mainichi Communications. With over 45 years of experience, it seeks to be a publisher that supports individuals in their professional and personal enhancement across diverse fields—IT, culture, and lifestyle. The headquarters are located at 2-6-3 Hitotsubashi, Chiyoda, Tokyo. You can learn more at Mynavi Publishing.