The novel is a new frontier
"Ken-chan" is a third-year high school student attending a special needs school, and is based on a young man Kodama met at the boarding school where he used to work.
"He's just so free. He paints, he writes newspapers, he plays music. As we talk, he drifts deeper and deeper into his own fantasy world. I was drawn to his unrestrained nature, and I've always wanted to write a novel about him."
However, Kodama struggled to write, as it was different from writing autobiographical novels or essays.
"In the end, it took me nine years. I was so used to writing facts that writing a novel felt uncomfortable, like I was lying. People around me said, 'Novels should be free, you can write anything you want' (laughs). The only things I was able to write smoothly were the descriptions of the countryside scenery that I had seen."
The story is set in the bitterly cold north, but Kodama's elegant writing style makes it feel familiar. Magnificent snowy scenery, the sparkling night view outside the window with clear air, and vibrant rowan trees. In this beautiful natural setting, the adults are influenced by Ken-chan and begin to soften their hardened hearts.
"He does what he wants to do, just as he pleases. I hope that even a little of Ken-chan's charm can be conveyed to you."
