It's okay to cry, but don't be too sad.

Author Rintaro Uchida's works are bestsellers in Japan and are very popular with children.

In this book, he uses timeless words, accompanied by Kazumi Takao's warm-toned, softly-penned illustrations, to convey a sense of melancholy intertwined with warmth. It helps readers understand that although the departure of loved ones brings loneliness and sadness, memories will forever remain in our hearts, and through intergenerational inheritance, the meaning of life continuously expands.

Facing the "loss" in life, everyone's capacity to cope is different. How can we talk to children about it and help them through a period of grief, transforming remembrance into strength? This touching story, coupled with soft and elegant illustrations, can serve as a healing antidote for both adults and children. Grandfather's heartfelt words, full of hope and courage, left for his beloved grandchild... We hope that all those who are grieving and helpless due to the loss of a loved one can find comfort and strength in this warm and moving story.

When we lose a cherished item, we feel reluctant; when we lose a beloved pet, we cry; when we lose a dear family member, our regret and sorrow need time to heal... This is a warm story imbued with strong grandparent-grandchild affection, told through the monologue of a deceased grandfather. It expresses his reluctance to leave his grandchild, his fond memories of past good times, and his imagination and expectations for his grandchild's future life.

You're still waiting as before, still unaware that I've passed away. If you knew, you'd probably cry endlessly! Tears streaming down your face, quietly sobbing without stop. For a child, the death of grandparents can be the first most profound challenge in life.

The departure of a loved one is inherently a sad and sorrowful event, so when you feel like crying, just cry. But please don't be too sad, because more than seeing you grieve, the departed wish for you to smile and live a happier, more fulfilling life with their blessings. If only you could forget me, yet you just can't. However, time slowly allows one to forget; life operates in such a thoughtful way. Still, occasionally, under a blue sky, in distant clouds, in the wind, at a street corner, one might suddenly feel a pang of longing. Time allows one to gradually forget, to dilute sadness and pain, leaving only the most precious memories and thoughts of loved ones.

Rintaro Uchida, hailed as a "language magician," skillfully uses his philosophical, poetic, and beautiful words, and his simple yet profound storytelling ability, to deeply soothe every wounded and lonely soul with gentle text, accompanied by Kazumi Takao's warm-toned, softly-penned illustrations. Day by day, year by year, you will grow into an adult, fall in love with someone, have your children, and then, grandchildren. Life is a continuous cycle of inheritance, and separation is inevitable. In times of sadness and loneliness, remember that love and memories are never far away.

We hope this story, full of courage and hope, will enable you and your children to bravely face the sorrow of losing a loved one, and also understand the meaning of life passed down from grandparents to you, and then from you to the next generation. This book is dedicated to adults and children who have experienced "loss." When missing a loved one, remembering the beautiful times shared together and cherishing those common memories is the best comfort for the departed.