Bungeishunju Ltd. will publish Shuichi Okita's first full-length novel, 'Satoko is Always,' on Friday, August 21. This special novel by Okita marks the 20th anniversary of his directorial debut. As Okita was filming the entirely original film of the same name, he realized the existence of the Satokos extended beyond what could be written in the script. He chose to write a novel from scratch rather than a novelization. This novel, born from that decision, captures the breath of three Satokos overflowing from Okita's imagination. ■ A Word from Author Shuichi Okita The film was the catalyst. It's a story about three women named 'Satoko' who try to write stories. While writing the script, I couldn't fully depict the content they wrote, and I felt frustrated. Then, I decided to just write it as a novel. I couldn't stand the idea of a novelization of the film, and I wanted to write a novel from scratch with a fresh perspective, just like the characters in this story. I wrote about the feelings of ordinary people, who are everywhere, who want to write but aren't very good at it. It's perfectly fine to enjoy it alongside the movie, but I believe you can enjoy this novel on its own as well. Thank you for your support. ■ Synopsis of 'Satoko is Always' Satoko Nakai, 2nd year of junior high school. While vaguely aware of the looming high school entrance exams, she spends her lunch breaks chatting about romance with friends on the rooftop and reluctantly plays right field in the softball club after school (※ she runs away when the ball comes her way). Satoko Nishida, 35 years old. She deeply loves Korean culture and her niece, and works tirelessly at a film distribution company. Her initial passion to introduce hidden gems to the world has faded, and she's overwhelmed by mountains of work. Facing reality, she finds herself churning out safe, broadly appealing copy. Satoko Iijima, 55 years old. She diligently prepares lunches for her three sons every morning, and twenty years hav