The Strongest Boy in the World

The latest in Souhami's series of retold world stories. Kaito, a Japanese boy who is the unbeaten wrestling champion of his village, sets off to the city to compete in the world-famous Sumo wrestling tournament. On the way he meets Hana, a mysterious girl who is even stronger than he is. She offers to help him train, and as a result Kaito becomes the champion.

When he's offered the job of Imperial Champion however, he turns it down, instead taking the prize to Hana and returning to his village, which thenceforth prospers as a result.

Based on an ancient Japanese tale, Souhami's simple text is enhanced by her illustrations, which admirably reflect the culture and the subject of her retelling.