Collecting two stories based on the works of director Makoto Shinkai with “5 Centimeters per Second” penned by the iconic director himself. The release is accompanied by Children who Chase Lost Voices adapted by Asahi Akisaka.
“5 Centimeters per second When Takaki meets Akari in elementary school, they are as thick as thieves. She always teaches him the important things, while he does his best to protect her. After they are separated in middle school, though, they have to find their paths in life without each other…”
Children Who Chase Lost Voices Asuna is a shy and diffident girl who lives in the mountain town of Mizunofuchi. One day, she meets Shun, a boy who claims to be from a mythical land known as Agartha. However, just as a bond is beginning to form between them, Shun vanishes. As Asuna wishes she could see him again, she encounters Shin, another boy who looks just like Shun, and Morisaki, a teacher searching for Agartha. The three of them set out for the legendary country, each with their own goal in mind—and their own lessons to learn along the way.” (Yen Press)
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A true treat for fans of Makoto Shinkai, the two story collection offers a deeper insight into the creative process of the beloved creator. Unsurprisingly, Shinkai's own reinterpretation of his work through literary prose resonates the same poetic beauty of his animated projects – capturing that sense of wonderment and longing that resonates deeply within one's informative years. Consequently, the novel acts as an idyllic companion piece to further defining the icon's oeuvre.
Arguably, understanding of the world that Shinkai created within his anime helps elevate this release in creating intrigue to deeper understand the creator's process. However, it can't be understated enough that both stories excel in emotional reflections on their own merit. Essentially, the beauty and struggles of the characters make for a deeply engrossing and cathartic read regardless of the any tie-in across other media.
“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” written by author Asahi Akisaka, acts as the ideal second act to this collection. Undeniably, capturing the same sincerity and introspective prose as Shinkai outlined in the opening story with only a few notable shifts in narrative style – which in this case acts as a positive. Most importantly Akisaka understands the importance of emphasis on the internal struggles of the varied cast, ensuring each character is explored in earnest.
Much like the previous release from Yen Press covering the work of Shinkai (The Place Promised in Our Early Days), the release is given deserved consideration in how best to present the work. Beyond the hard cover and dust jacket, the print quality is exemplary and the text looks lovely on the off-white paper. In addition, the book is a compacted into pocket size which makes it the ideal travelling companion for those who like to read on the go or outside.
For existing fans of Maoto Shinkai grabbing this release is an easy choice as the work offers a deeper insight into how the creator interprets his own work in another medium. Conversely, those looking for an exemplary emotionally driven coming-of-age stories can easily jump in without any knowledge of previous accolades. A perfect read to get lost in whether it be lounging outside or curled up with your favorite relaxing music as a backdrop, “5 Centimeters Per Second + Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is the perfect summer book.
