“If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”
― Stephen King

For eight years, Hokkaido International School has honored students for their reading and persuasive defense of great books. 2022 is a great year to rebalance the force.

On Tuesday, April 12th, nine students were honored for their creativity in writing. 
 

“If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”
― Stephen King

For eight years, Hokkaido International School has honored students for their reading and persuasive defense of great books. 2022 is a great year to rebalance the force.

On Tuesday, April 12th, nine students were honored for their creativity in writing. 

Hana Katayama & Aina Nishi-Strong, Miyako Cammack, Kate James, & Ena Kanai, Teleri Thompson & Josie Walzem, and Jiwoo Kim & Hazuki Kawana wrote collaborative short stories that moved five judges. 

Hana & Aina’s winning story “Pen Pal”
“I loved the opening scene. I thought the relationship between mother and daughter was well developed—the tension, resentment, and frustration were palpable. I think this is a very relatable experience for many people.”
— Mr. Neil Maclean

Miyako, Kate, and Ena’s runner-up story “Melting into Spring”
“My favorite scene was when Winter finds out that Chamomile is considered loud and annoying, and how she immediately feels solidarity and takes action. The need to defend someone often means they matter to us, but it also takes courage to do it. This incident changes the whole dynamic, nicely done.”
— Dr. Raluca Nagy

Teleri and Josie’s finalist story “My Best Friend”
“What a story! It was fantastic that it starts with James and his best friend and that the reader only finds out later that it is an imaginary best friend. The descriptions of places are wonderful and they really transported me to beautiful sunsets and school corridors.” 
— Ms. Ann Van Den Borne

Jiwoo and Hazuki’s “The Edge of the World”
"I loved the sense of mystery and intrigue throughout, the imagery and use of language, the contrast between the fantastical and real-life conflict, the deep and authentic emotions."
— Mr. Tim Schlosser

We hope you enjoy reading the winning stories just as much as our students do!

Please get excited about 2023 where HIS will continue the tradition of not only reading and speaking but writing creatively. For after all…

“When we read the story of others, ours becomes clearer.”
— Mr. Jared Pangier