[Sakuragi Shino's Latest Novel] Unveiling the Book Cover of 'Not Abnormal,' Delving into the Truth of Human Relationships Hidden within the Mitsubishi Bank Hostage Crisis!
The book cover for Sakuragi Shino's latest novel, 'Not Abnormal,' has been unveiled. Publication is set for April 22nd.
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- 📰 Published: March 30, 2026 at 20:00
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The author, known for works like 'Hotel Royal' (Naoki Prize) and 'Family Retirement' (Chuo Koron Literary Prize), which explore parent-child relationships and human nature, delves into their ultimate form and approaches the truth in the full-length novel 'Not Abnormal,' to be published by Shinchosha on April 22nd (Wednesday). We are now unveiling the book cover!
Why did such a grim incident, seemingly 'abnormal,' occur? Why is it 'not abnormal'?
Mystery, mystery, mystery... Due to the enigmatic content, the book cover deliberately features only the title and author's name to avoid imposing preconceived notions or images.
In January 1979, Kiyoshi Hanakawa (30) took approximately 30 bank employees and customers hostage at the Kitahata branch of Sano Bank in Osaka City. The following day, the Osaka Prefectural Police flew a helicopter to persuade his mother, Kayo, who lived in Kagawa, to talk him down. However, for two hours before boarding the helicopter, the mother disappeared and was found getting her hair done at a beauty salon. Furthermore, Hanakawa refused to speak with his mother when she arrived. The incident ended with his shooting. Not only Hanakawa's brutal actions within the bank but also the words he spoke about himself became known. Kondo, a desk editor at Maiho Shimbun, was struck by these words and, believing that nothing had been truly resolved despite the case being closed, launched a serialized project in the newspaper and began his investigation.
Sakuragi Shino's deeply committed full-length novel, 'Not Abnormal,' which closely examines the 'truth' hidden within the facts of the Mitsubishi Bank hostage crisis, a 'cold case' of the Showa era and perhaps of all time, is finally being published on April 22nd (Wednesday).
The book cover for this work has been unveiled. It's a powerful design with the title placed prominently in the center, so please take a look.
■ Author's Comment
As I approached the end, I confronted the fact that all wise people and criminals alike are born from women. From there, I felt it became a time to reflect on my own past as an individual and as a mother.
◼️ Book Contents
The most notorious bank hostage-taker: was he driven by his mother, a woman, society, or himself? The author, who has continuously depicted parents and children and human beings in works like 'Hotel Royal' and 'Family Retirement,' tackles the ultimate challenge and approaches the truth in this full-length novel.
◼️ Author Introduction: Sakuragi Shino (サクラギ・シノ)
Born in Hokkaido in 1965. In 2002, won the All-Reading Newcomer Award for 'Yukimushi,' and in 2013, 'La
FAQ
What is the title of Sakuragi Shino's new novel?
The title of Sakuragi Shino's new novel is 'Not Abnormal' (異常に非ず).
When will 'Not Abnormal' be published?
'Not Abnormal' is scheduled to be published on April 22nd (Wednesday).
What historical event is the novel based on?
The novel is based on the Mitsubishi Bank hostage crisis that occurred in Osaka in January 1979.
What are Sakuragi Shino's previous notable works?
Sakuragi Shino is known for 'Hotel Royal' (which won the Naoki Prize) and 'Family Retirement' (which won the Chuo Koron Literary Prize).
What is the main theme of the novel 'Not Abnormal'?
The novel explores the complex relationships between parents and children, and the deeper truths of human nature, particularly in the context of the hostage crisis.