HarperCollins has scheduled the English-language release of Saeko Himuro’s acclaimed novel Ocean Waves for March 2, 2027. Translated by Yui Kajita, the upcoming edition will feature original illustrations by Katsuya Kondō.
About the Story
The narrative follows Taku Morisaki after he leaves his coastal hometown of Kochi to attend college in Tokyo. Expecting a fresh start, his plans are upended when he discovers that Rikako Muto—a sharp-tongued and magnetic transfer student from his high school days with whom he had lost touch—has turned down a local university to move to Tokyo as well.
The revelation plunges Taku into a wave of nostalgia for his teenage years, recalling how the brilliant yet unpredictable Rikako captured the attention of everyone around her. As Taku and his calm, level-headed best friend Yutaka both find themselves drawn to her, Taku attempts to keep his feelings in check to preserve his friendship. However, being pulled into Rikako’s orbit proves unavoidable. From a memorable high school trip to Hawaii to an impromptu trip to Tokyo to find her estranged father, the two grow increasingly close until a sudden misunderstanding drives them apart. Years later, an unexpected encounter gives an older and wiser Taku and Rikako a chance to cross paths once again, raising the question of whether their unfinished story might finally find its resolution.
Legacy and Adaptations
Himuro’s novel served as the source material for Studio Ghibli’s beloved 1993 coming-of-age television special, Ocean Waves (originally titled Umi ga Kikoeru). Over the years, the anime has seen various international releases, including a North American theatrical run by GKIDS in 2016, a UK DVD release by Optimum Releasing in 2010, and an Australian release by Madman Entertainment. The film also became available for streaming globally through platforms like HBO Max and Netflix.
Saeko Himuro was a celebrated author whose literary works frequently crossed mediums. Eight of her novels inspired manga adaptations—including Nante Suteki ni Japanesque and The Change—while others were adapted into live-action television series and films. She also collaborated directly on manga stories, such as Rising!, a tale centered around the Takarazuka musical revue illustrated by Kazuko Fujita. Additionally, the sequel to her most famous work, Umi ga Kikoeru II: Ai ga Aru Kara, was adapted into a live-action television special separate from the Studio Ghibli production.
Himuro passed away from lung cancer in June 2008.