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Book details

The House of the Lost on the Cape

The House of the Lost on the Cape

Published in
2015
4.04
on Goodreads (137)

Description

From the author and translator of the Batchelder Award-winning novel Temple Alley Summer comes the moving story of three generations of women adapting to their new home, and its mythical inhabitants, in the tragic aftermath of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake disaster.In the wake of a devastating earthquake and tsunami, Yui, fleeing her violent husband, and Hiyori, a young orphan, are taken in by a strange but kind old lady named Kiwa in the small town of Kitsunezaki. The newly formed family finds refuge in a mayoiga, a lost house, perched atop a beautiful cape overlooking the sea. While helping to rebuild Kitsunezaki, the three adapt to their new lives and supernatural new home, slowly healing from their troubled pasts. Kiwa regales Yui and Hiyori with local legends-from the shapeshifting fox-woman who used to roam the mountains, to the demon Agame and a sea snake who once terrorized the townspeople, preying upon their grief and fears until they trapped the snake and the demon's claws in an underwater cave.But when mysterious and sinister events start happening around town, the three fear the worst. Did the earthquake release Agame and the sea snake into the world again? Kiwa, Yui, and Hiyori join forces with a merry band of kappa river spirits, a bold zashiki warashi house spirit, and flying Jizo guardian statues to save their new family and home and banish Agame and the snake once and for all. Now a hit anime film, The House of the Lost on the Cape is a heartwarming tale about the strength of family and friendship in the face of natural and mythical forces.
Age
8-13
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
201 pages

Why to read

  • Exploration of Grief and Healing: 'The House of the Lost on the Cape' offers a poignant look into the process of dealing with loss and the journey towards healing, making it a touching read for anyone who has experienced grief.
  • Rich Blend of Genres: The book masterfully combines elements of fantasy, folklore, and reality, providing a unique reading experience that caters to fans of multiple genres, including magical realism and supernatural tales.
  • Cultural Insight: Written by renowned Japanese author Kashiwaba Sachiko, the story provides readers with a glimpse into Japanese culture, traditions, and the coastal landscapes, enriching their understanding and appreciation of a different way of life.
  • Award-Winning Storytelling: As a work by an influential author in Japanese children's literature, 'The House of the Lost on the Cape' promises a high-quality narrative that has been recognized for its literary merit, ensuring an engaging and thought-provoking read.