Third-grader Kamekichi spends summer vacation facing all kinds of “why is that?” questions and thinking them through for himself. Using a school research project as its frame, the story humorously captures a child’s curiosity and delight in discovery.

Kamekichi’s summer vacation becomes a time for turning everyday questions into answers of his own.

Chihiro Homma’s illustrated poetry collection traces time spent with a cat. Brief poems and open, spacious images quietly preserve intimate memories, hints of parting, and the feel of living with an animal.

The memory of one cat breathes softly between poem and picture.