Japanese Literary Awards

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Kodansha Children's Literature Newcomer Award こうだんしゃじどうぶんがくしんじんしょう

Edition 18 (1977)

Children's literature

Winners

3 people
野火晃 award

Tiger is a children’s literary work recognized by the Kodansha Children’s Literature Newcomer Award. Through the image of the animal, it presents vitality and the moment when people face nature and fear in a form accessible to young readers.

The tiger’s presence reflects the vastness and fear of the world through a child’s eyes.

children’s literaturenaturefeargrowth
浅川じゅん honorable mention

Crybaby Witch Teacher is a humorous children’s book about a timid witch teacher and her relationships with children. Through magical mishaps and school-life commotion, it conveys the warmth of facing others while carrying one’s own weaknesses.

A tearful witch teacher stumbles her way closer to the children’s hearts.

221 pages
children’s literaturewitchschoolkindness
粂川妙子 honorable mention

The Distant White Ball is a children’s work centered on baseball, dreams, and setbacks. Through the act of chasing the ball, it layers friendship, effort, and family relationships.

A white ball flying into the distance carries young hopes and growth.

434 pages
children’s literaturebaseballfriendshipgrowth