#Japan #Kodansha #Bunkyo #Children's Books #Aoi Tori Bunko

Classic Literature Sets for Young Readers

Kodansha is excited to announce the release of specially curated sets from its acclaimed Aoi Tori Bunko series, which has been cherished since its inception in 1980. Designed to inspire a love of reading among children, these themed collections feature popular works that resonate with young minds. Here’s a closer look at the offerings available through the hometown tax donation program starting April 2026:

1. Top 10 Books Read by Todai Students

Aimed at elementary school students, this set is perfect for youngsters in their early academic years. For a contribution of ¥32,000, this collection includes beloved titles such as:

• - Order Made Restaurant by Kenji Miyazawa
• - Night on the Galactic Railroad by Kenji Miyazawa
• - Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
• - Sherlock Holmes: A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle
• - The Mystery of the Vanishing Five by Kaoru Hayamine

This collection not only provides entertainment but also aids in vocabulary building with its complete ruby (furigana) text. It’s curated based on recommendations from 184 Todai students about essential reads for young minds.

2. Detective Stories Set

Popular among children and parents alike, this ¥30,000 set features a selection of nine mystery titles, including:

• - The Grim Resignation of the Detective Dream Water series by Kaoru Hayamine
• - Sherlock Holmes Stories by Arthur Conan Doyle

Perfect for encouraging problem-solving skills, these engaging tales are also presented with supportive furigana to enhance reading confidence.

3. Timeless Masterpieces Set

This set, comprising ten stories for ¥30,000, is aimed at young readers eager to delve into narratives that endure through ages. Notable titles include the captivating Hinata and Hikari series, The Mysterious Town Beyond the Fog, and more. Each book is meticulously chosen to offer not just entertainment but also valuable life lessons and reflections on friendship, courage, and imagination.

4. Hinata and Hikari Complete Series

For ¥35,000, this full collection of the beloved Hinata and Hikari series is a top pick among elementary school girls today. The series follows twin sisters on their adventures, spotlighting themes of identity and friendship as they navigate the world of a popular idol and her ordinary sister. This 12-volume set will surely captivate young readers with its relatable storyline and engaging illustrations.

5. Anatomy and Health Books

In addition to literary classics, Kodansha is featuring two informative and visually compelling books:

• - New Body Atlas and Disease Atlas (Revised Edition), each priced at ¥20,000 respectively. These books are designed to provide children and families with a clear understanding of the human body and health, combining precise color illustrations with comprehensive explanations that are easy to grasp, even without a medical background.

These offerings through the hometown tax donation scheme reflect Kodansha's commitment to enhancing children's reading experiences while ensuring families have access to quality literature and educational resources. Be sure to explore these exceptional collections and enrich your child's library with stories that will inspire and engage their inquisitive minds. For detailed information on these sets, please visit the respective hometown tax websites such as Furusato Choice, Furunavi, and Rakuten Hometown Tax.