Pathway to Japanese Literature
Discover Japan's stories—across time, across language.
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| Original Title | あたまでっかち |
|---|---|
| Author | 下村 千秋 |
| Genre | War & Social Literature |
| Author Type | Male Author |
| Summary | Nestled along the mist-shrouded shores of Japan’s second-largest lake, a quiet village harbors a boy named Rintaro, whose oversized head earns him the cruel nickname “Gorokko”—tadpole. Bullied by peers and haunted by his father’s drunken rages, Rintaro blames himself for his family’s unraveling, convinced his appearance drives his parents’ strife. His only solace lies in his grandfather’s gentle reassurances and the loyalty of Shiroko, a fluffy white dog who becomes his steadfast companion. When Rintaro’s mother vanishes, leaving him in a desolate home, he embarks on a desperate journey across the lake’s vast expanse, guided by childish hope and Shiroko’s devotion. Through hazy summer nights and echoing loneliness, the pair navigate both physical and emotional landscapes, uncovering fragile truths about family and belonging. This tender tale weaves the tranquility of Kasumigaura’s waters with a child’s quiet resilience, exploring how love and loyalty can illuminate even the deepest shadows of self-doubt. |
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