Who is 'Chiriken' recommended for?

Ideal for high school students, educators, map lovers, and fans of coming-of-age stories.

How can I join the event?

Register via Peatix URL on a first-come, first-served basis. Capacity is 20 people.

Where can I buy 'Chiriken'?

Available at bookstores nationwide, Amazon, and Shogakukan's official site.

Does author Haruma Kobe have other works?

Currently, 'Chiriken' is their first commercially published novel.

Can the general public visit Kusouchizu?

Yes. It's a geography-themed book café open to all visitors.

Map Story of a 17-Year-Old: YA Novel 'Chiriken' Released by Shogakukan

Published Jul 15, 2026 8:30 PM ・ Updated Jul 15, 2026 2:09 PM ・ 5 min read ・ Source: PR TIMES

Shogakukan has released the YA novel 'Chiriken' on July 15, 2026. This short story collection follows members of a high school geography club as they conduct fieldwork, using maps to navigate both physical spaces and personal challenges such as relationships and career decisions. A commemorative talk event will be held on August 29.

Bibliographic Information

'Chiriken'

Author: Haruma Kobe

Price: ¥1,650 (tax included)

Format: Yonkoban, 256 pages

Release Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Published by Shogakukan

https://www.shogakukan.co.jp/books/09289348

The YA (Young Adult) novel 'Chiriken' was released today, July 15, by Shogakukan. This short story collection follows members of the Chiba Coastal High School Geography Research Society (nicknamed 'Chiriken') as they conduct fieldwork in their local environment. By walking with maps and reflecting on their experiences, the characters find new perspectives on personal struggles including relationships and future career paths.

Synopsis

Kosakura Kajun, a passionate map enthusiast, is appointed as the new president of the school's Geography Research Society—'Chiriken'—despite being only a first-year student. The club is on the verge of dissolution, its members are eccentric, and the newly assigned advisor seems unreliable. Yet, every journey begins with a single step. By exploring their immediate surroundings, the students begin to connect with the present world and find light in uncertain paths. This is a series of short stories about high schoolers gaining profound insights through everyday geography.

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Author's Essay: 'I Wrote This Book'

Now available online:

https://shosetsu-maru.com/yomimono/essay/chiriken

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Talk Event Announced to Commemorate Release!

To celebrate the book's publication, a special talk event will be held. The author, Haruma Kobe, will engage in a geography-themed conversation with active geography teacher Kazuyuki Iizuka.

They will discuss favorite maps, memorable cartographic experiences, and must-check items when traveling, from diverse perspectives.

Event Details

'Chiriken' Release Commemoration: Geography Talk Event

Date: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Venue: Kusouchizu, a Geography-Themed Book Café https://kusouchizu.com/

Speakers (names without honorifics): Haruma Kobe (Author), Kazuyuki Iizuka (Social Studies Teacher, Meiji University Nakano Senior High School)

Capacity: 20 people (elementary school students and above), first-come, first-served

Admission: ¥1,000 (includes one drink)

Registration: https://peatix.com/event/5083880

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Source: PR TIMES
Category: New Product

Map Story of a 17-Year-Old: YA Novel 'Chiriken' Released by Shogakukan

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