#Japan #Tokyo #Kinokuniya #You Like a Star #Yu Nagira

The Launch of a Special Edition

Kino Group, led by Chairman Masafumi Takai, is excited to announce the upcoming release of a special edition of Yu Nagira's award-winning novel, "You, Like a Star" (Kodansha). This paperback edition will be available starting July 15, 2025, and features a stunning design aimed at both loyal readers and newcomers alike.

Yu Nagira's novel made waves in the literary world when it was named the top book of 2023 by "Kinobes!" and won the prestigious 20th Bookseller Award. This acclaim has generated passionate interest in the book, prompting the creation of the exclusive Kinokuniya Group special edition as it transitions into paperback.

This unique edition will be available in all Kinokuniya Group stores across Japan (excluding specialized foreign language bookstores) and on the Kinokuniya online store. It will showcase a full-size reversible obi (a paper band) that creatively ties in with the story's meta-narrative elements, enhancing its thematic depth.

Special Features of the Edition

The special edition will include a reversible obi created to reflect the essence of the novel. The obi's intricate design is inspired by the in-story work that plays a significant role in the book’s final scenes, adding another layer for readers to explore.

The standard paperback edition will retail at ¥900 (tax included ¥990), and it will be spaciously stocked in all Kinokuniya stores across 71 locations, along with 11 stores of Asahiya and 20 stores of Keibundo, though availability may be limited. Those interested are encouraged to secure their copies early to avoid disappointment.

This new version aims to deliver a fresh emotional experience, especially for readers who may encounter "You, Like a Star" for the first time through this paperback format. The author has thoughtfully concealed an alternate narrative in the reversible ob, inviting readers to uncover additional depths to the story once they finish.

A Message from Author Yu Nagira

In a heartfelt message, author Yu Nagira expressed her sentiments about the special edition, emphasizing how a story evolves beyond the writer once shared with readers. She pointed out that the kinship between booksellers at Kinokuniya has birthed this beautiful edition, aiming to leave a lasting impression on readers' hearts as they engage with her story.

Nagira remarked, “I hope that after finishing the book, readers will flip the cover and see what lies beneath it, capturing another side of the story.”

About the Story

The plot centers around Akimi, who grows up on a picturesque island in Setouchi, and Kai, a new transfer student entangled in a complicated relationship with Akimi and her mother. The two characters, both grappling with their own loneliness and emotional voids, quickly develop a romantic bond that faces the trials of miscommunication and growth. The narrative profoundly explores themes related to the freedoms and constraints of life, ultimately crafting a poignant love story.

Author Profile

Yu Nagira, based in Kyoto, made her literary debut in 2007. She is renowned for her works in the BL genre, with several novels stepping into television and film adaptations, most notably the hit series “Beautiful Him.” Her acclaimed book, “Drifting Moon,” was published in 2017 and subsequently earned her significant recognition, including a 2020 Bookseller Award win. In 2022, "You, Like a Star" was nominated for various literary awards and ultimately secured another Bookseller Award. In November 2023, Nagira will introduce a sequel to the beloved story, expanding the universe further.

For more details about the special edition release, visit Kinokuniya. For inquiries, please contact the Kinokuniya Corporate Communications Department at [email protected].