It's a Waste to Only Watch the Movie! The Profound Charm of the Original 'Kiki's Delivery Service' [Children's Book Review]

The 'Kiki's Delivery Service' series is a story that depicts a young girl named Kiki as she becomes independent and grows up. The writing has a freshness like a breeze passing through the trees, yet at times, one can also feel a strength as if that wind were shaking the earth. Watching how Kiki's life changes shape and deepens in color from the first volume to the final one was truly an adventure for the reader.

In the first volume, 'Kiki's Delivery Service,' it is impressive to see Kiki strike out for a new town at age 13, struggling both as a witch and as a young girl. The unique premise of riding a broom through the sky and starting a delivery service makes the reader feel the expansion of freedom and possibility. It naturally sparks the imagination, making one think, 'How fun it would be to have a job like that.' Her encounters with Osono, the baker, and Tombo, a curious boy, bring warmth and hope. Kiki's slightly clumsy yet straightforward personality is so endearing that you cannot help but root for her.

As the story progresses, Kiki accumulates various experiences and grows into an adult woman. The walls she hits and her moments of worry seem to reflect our own, making us think. Each time she overcomes those obstacles, the way something new buds within Kiki is depicted very vividly. Her growth, not just in independence but through connections with friends, family, and the local community, feels as gentle as waves lapping at the shore, yet it also conveys a strong will. For example, scenes where she struggles to put her magic to use for town events or overcomes difficulties alongside the townspeople make one realize that Kiki has become something more than just a "witch."

In the sixth volume, 'Each Departure,' Kiki has become a mother of twins and is in the position of watching over children who are 13, the same age she once was. The joys and conflicts of being a parent, as well as expectations for the future, are carefully drawn through her warm gaze as she watches her children grow and the moments when she gently encourages them. The purity and strength Kiki held since her girlhood are expressed in a different form. Seeing the twins begin to search for their own paths felt as if Kiki's adventure had been passed on to the next generation, and it warmed my heart to read.

Through these six books, not only Kiki's growth but also the kindness and bonds of the people around her are depicted in detail. In particular, the hesitation and weakness Kiki shows deliver an important message to the reader: "It's okay not to be perfect." For instance, the scene where Kiki faces difficulties while delivering an important package and cannot solve them on her own, having to borrow the help of the townspeople, was a moment of learning the importance of mutual aid during trials. Also, when she starts helping at a new bakery, the way she gradually improves despite worrying about her own clumsiness vividly depicts the joy of effort and growth. This series, which teaches us about the trials and joys of life and the beauty of the moments when we open new doors, is a "coming-of-age story" that makes one feel as if they are wrapped in a gentle breeze.

Finally, I believe the 'Kiki's Delivery Service' series is a work that offers every reader small hints for enjoying life. By traveling with Kiki, perhaps we too can gain the courage to take a new step forward. I sincerely hope that this story will continue to be loved by many people for years to come.