Series by 嶋津蓮

After losing her grandmother and seeing her grandfather struggle with grief, 12-year-old Konoha is sent by her mother from their rural home to live with him in the bustling Narukami tenement house in Edo-era Japan. Determined to help her grandfather heal, Konoha immerses herself in the vibrant community of the tenement, where she meets a colorful cast of residents, each with their own stories and struggles. As she forms bonds and navigates daily life, Konoha discovers the warmth of found family and the strength it takes to mend broken hearts. Though grounded in reality, the story occasionally weaves in fantastical elements, like visits to mythical realms, adding a touch of wonder to their journey.

Takumi, a sixth-grader and art committee member, proposes creating a mural of everyone’s dreams as a graduation project, but his classmates lack enthusiasm. Alone in the art room, he meets Art, a lively girl who reveals herself as the spirit of a bronze statue. Takumi, inspired by her energy, teams up with Art to motivate his peers, sparking creativity and unexpected adventures. Their collaboration brings humor and warmth, as Art’s magical presence transforms the art room into a hub of imagination. Together, they navigate classroom dynamics and quirky challenges to bring the mural project to life.