Melancholy grapes

Author: (Japan) Hayashi Mariko / Shi Xiaowei / Zhang Lefeng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features: This is a classic work of a best-selling youth novel in Japan. The protagonist, Nariko, grows up in a quiet grape vineyard in the countryside. With an innocent and kind nature, she successfully enters Hongming High School (a key high school) as she wished, but faces jealousy from her former classmates and often suffers discrimination and bullying at school. As an innocent girl begins to bloom, encouraged by her friend, she bravely confesses her feelings to a boy she admires, only to receive a cruel rejection. She draws lots and becomes desk mates with another boy she has a good impression of, only to be mocked and despised by him. In the end, Cinderella enters university and becomes a broadcaster after graduation. Hayashi Mariko depicts with extremely delicate brushwork the real-life experience and psychological journey of a Cinderella-like girl who blooms brilliantly in her youth. The Grapes of Melancholy was published in single volumes and pocket editions by Kadokawa Shoten and Kōdansha within a few years. This honor is only reserved for great masters like Natsume Sōseki and Ryūnosuke Akutagawa, who have already passed away, and for living novelists, it is truly the highest distinction.