I Dream of a Journey

Book excerpt: Akiko Miyakoshi’s enchanting new book explores how it feels to harbor a secret dream. People from all over the world come and go at the gracious innkeeper’s little hotel, some even becoming friends over the years. Only, sometimes, the innkeeper feels the desire to travel far away himself. He longs to pack a big bag and journey from one unfamiliar town to another. He imagines stopping to visit his friends. And having wonderful and unexpected experiences. The innkeeper continues to go about his daily routine at his hotel. But, someday, he is sure, he will explore the world. For every child — and adult — who yearns for what lies beyond the horizon.