Image source: HarperCollins via @catsuka.bsky.social — via Anime News Network
HarperCollins describes the story:
When Rikako arrives at school, she quickly becomes the center of everyone's universe. Academically and athleticallygifted, she's also arrogant, antisocial, and erratic. But no one can deny her magnetism; she's an "it girl" whether she wants to be or not. Taku begins to fall for her, as does Yutaka, his mature and cool-tempered best friend. Not wanting to threaten their friendship, Taku tries to suppress his feelings. But once he enters Rikako's unpredictable (and irresistible) orbit, he can't escape. From an unforgettable school trip toHawaii to a surprise visit to Tokyo in search of Rikako's father, the two grow increasingly close—until a misunderstanding tears them apart. As time passes, the little older and wiser Taku and Rikako cross paths again by chance, leaving Taku to wonder if their fleetingconnection may be fated for more.
The novel is the inspiration behind StudioGhibli's 1993 coming-of-age television special Ocean Waves (Umi ga Kikoeru). The film premiered in North American theaters in December 2016. Optimum Releasing released the Ocean Waves special on DVD in the United Kingdom in 2010, and Madman Entertainment released it onDVD in Australia later that year.
HBO Max started streaming the film in theUnited States in spring 2020. Netflix began streaming 21 Studio Ghibli films worldwide except for the United States, Canada, and Japan on Netflix in early 2020, including Ocean Waves.
Eight of Himuro's novels have been adapted into manga, including Nante Suteki ni Japanesque and The Change. She also directly wrote the stories of other manga, such as the Rising! story about the Takarazuka musical revue with artist Kazuko Fujita. Stillmore of her works have been adapted into live-action series (Nante Suteki ni Japanesque)and movies (Kurara Hakusho). Her Umi ga Kikoeru novel sequel, Umi ga Kikoeru II: Ai ga AruKara, was adapted into a live-action television special that is separate from Studio Ghibli's Ocean Waves anime.
Himuro died of lung cancer in June 2008.