#Japan #Tokyo #Gokusai no Shokutaku #Miyo #Yoko Tanji

A Colorful Culinary Journey

On June 20, 2025, Micro Magazine Company will unveil a heartwarming novel titled Gokusai no Shokutaku: Home Sweet Home, penned by Miyo and featuring beautiful illustrations by Yoko Tanji. This book tells the captivating story of two individuals—an art student named Tsuki, poised to graduate, and Ritsuko, a once-celebrated painter now struggling with her own life challenges.

The narrative takes flight with Tsuki receiving a phone call from the director of a restoration workshop, urging him to take a two-week training session on a remote island in the Seto Inland Sea. As he prepares to leave the comfort of home and Ritsuko, he feels a tinge of anxiety about their separation. Tsuki’s journey to Hanano Island introduces him to a cast of intriguing characters—from a boy forced to leave the island due to his parents' choices to a beautiful, mature woman married to a sick artist, and a veteran restorer named Minamoto. Through their encounters and shared meals, Tsuki grapples with his past while uncovering secrets that Ritsuko harbors.

In celebration of the book's release, readers who purchase the novel at select stores in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions will receive a special short story paper, written by Miyo, as a bonus.

Reader Reactions

Early readers have shared their thoughts on this colorful yet poignant tale. One media member described it as a work that, while vibrant, carries an underlying sadness. They noted the charm of Ritsuko’s character and the depiction of culinary beauty, remarking that after the secrets of both characters are revealed, one could almost smell the dishes described in the book. It was a richly rewarding experience that evoked a sense of happiness.

Another reviewer appreciated how Tsuki, who once found solace in art, is unable to paint anymore. The budding relationship between Tsuki and Ritsuko, marked by their shared meals, subtly heals their individual loneliness. The changing seasons and vibrant dishes painted a warm dialogue, leading to a rewarding conclusion that left a lasting impression.

Similarly, a bookstore representative emphasized Tsuki and Ritsuko's journey of personal growth through cooking and art. The vivid descriptions not only brought the meals to life but also reflected their emotional healing. Ritsuko’s complex character—innocent yet thoughtful—adds layers of engagement to the narrative, culminating in a satisfying conclusion.

Author and Illustrator Profiles

Author: Miyo - Hailing from Kagawa Prefecture and raised in Osaka, Miyo has a knack for storytelling and enjoys crafting narratives based on personal experiences. Her love for animals shines through her writing.
Illustrator: Yoko Tanji - A graduate of the prestigious Tokyo University of the Arts, Tanji thrives in diverse literary and visual mediums, producing illustrations for books, magazines, and advertisements.

Gokusai no Shokutaku: Home Sweet Home adds to the exciting collection of works published by Kotonohabunko, a label of Micro Magazine Company, dedicated to delivering heartwarming and engaging narratives for adult audiences. With a multitude of successful series under its belt, Kotonohabunko continues to captivate readers.

For more about the book and exciting updates from Kotonohabunko, please visit their official site here.