5 Centimeters per Second: one more side
Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (354)
What’s inside...
Takaki Toono and Akari Shinohara, two very close friends and classmates, are torn apart when Akari's family is transferred to another region of Japan due to her family's job. Despite separation, they continue to keep in touch through snail mail. When Takaki finds out that his family is also moving, he decides to make a long trek to see Akari one more time. As years pass by, they continue down their own paths, their distance slowly growing wider and their contact with one another fades. Yet, they keep remembering one another and the times they have shared together, wondering if they will have the chance to meet once again. A contemporary classic, 5 Centimeters per Second won animator Makoto Shinkai international renown as a rare talent. Indeed, he just might be one of the most powerful bards of romantic longing and thwarted love working today in any medium. This official novelization narrates from the other side—for instance, from the point-of-view of the girl rather than the boy in the legendary first segment, 'Cherry Blossoms'—to tell a story that is both deeply engaging for first-timers and astonishingly fresh for fans of the film. The author of fantasy novels based on the Shining videogame series, Arata Kanoh is best known for his imaginative prose adaptations of the masterpieces of Japan’s hottest animator. Most recently, his take on Your Name was the #1 Kindle bestseller at Amazon Japan.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
13-17
Length
240 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Takaki TōNo
Kanae Sumida
Akari Shinohara
Risa Mizuno
Discussion points
How did the story make you feel about waiting and patience?
What do you think the cherry blossoms represent in Takaki and Akari's relationship?
Can you relate to the feelings of the characters when they miss each other?
What does the title '5 Centimeters per Second' mean to you after reading the story?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today’s world with modern technology?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable reading environment that encourages open conversation. Reflect on your own experiences with distance and relationships to share insights with your child. Encourage your child to express their emotions and thoughts about the story, reinforcing understanding and empathy. Use examples from the book to discuss the impact of time and distance on relationships, promoting deeper critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of moving forward
Explanation: The story emphasizes the significance of progressing in life despite the challenges and setbacks, as depicted through the characters' journeys.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to accept changes and overcome obstacles, helping them to adapt and grow in dynamic environments.
Example Lesson: Value of persistence
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate persistence in their personal goals and relationships, which ultimately leads them to new opportunities and self-discoveries.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of staying determined and working hard towards their goals, regardless of the difficulties they might face.
Example Lesson: Impact of communication
Explanation: The narrative shows how the characters' lives are influenced by their ability or inability to communicate their feelings effectively.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of expressing themselves clearly and listening to others, which can improve their interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of change
Explanation: The book portrays how characters come to terms with changes in their lives and relationships, learning to accept them as part of their growth.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that change is a natural part of life and learning to embrace it can lead to personal development and new opportunities.