The “Anime de Sekai e! Shōsetsu Taishō” (Anime to the World! Novel Prize) literary award, jointly organized by Twin Engine and Straight Edge, announced the main staff for the anime adaptation of its grand prize-winning story on Wednesday. Veteran director Junichi Satō is set to serve as chief director, with NAGOMI handling the animation production for author Puri’s highly anticipated work.
Puri’s story, titled [Watashi no Ofuru de Waruin dakedo] to Okaa-sama (Heroine) ni Torimaki o Oshitsukerare, Totsuida Henkyō demo Yome Atsukai Saremasen ga, Okage de Jiyū ni Ikiraremasu! (My Mother [the Heroine] Married Me Away Like Second-Hand Goods to One of Her Followers, But I’m Not Treated Like a New Bride in the Remote Region I Moved to, and Now I Get to Live Freely!), secured the top honor in the literary contest.
A Visionary Director Takes the Helm
Junichi Satō, a celebrated figure in the anime industry, has been appointed as the chief director for the adaptation. Satō’s extensive career includes directing iconic series such as Sailor Moon, Aria the Animation, Aria the Natural, 2023 Akuma Kun, and Sgt. Frog. His rich experience across various genres and his reputation for crafting beloved animated narratives promise a compelling adaptation of Puri’s story.
The animation production will be undertaken by NAGOMI. The choice of studio and director signals a commitment to bringing the winning narrative to life with quality and artistic integrity.
The Grand Prize-Winning Narrative
Puri’s story, which captivated the judges from a pool of over 6,000 submissions, explores themes of freedom and identity within an unconventional domestic setting. The narrative follows a woman who is married off to one of her mother’s followers. Despite being unwelcomed by her new husband’s family, she embarks on a new life, finding solace and comfort in the presence of dolls alongside her expressionless husband. This unique premise and the promise of a journey from written word to animated wonder highlight the award’s goal of fostering creative talent.
The “Anime de Sekai e” Literary Contest
The “Anime de Sekai e! Shōsetsu Taishō” literary award was launched by Twin Engine, an animation planning and production company, and Straight Edge, an IP production and writer management company, in 2024. The contest was established with the explicit goal of discovering outstanding literary talent and guaranteeing an anime adaptation for the winning entry. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between aspiring novelists and the anime industry, facilitating the creation of new and exciting animated content for a global audience.
The winners of the contest were first revealed in June, with Puri’s story taking the grand prize. In addition to the guaranteed novel and anime adaptation, Twin Engine and Straight Edge are also considering manga and video game adaptations for the winning work, offering a multi-media expansion for Puri’s creation. The grand prize also included up to 1 million yen (approximately US$7,010) in prize money.
Other Noteworthy Entries
Beyond the grand prize, the contest also recognized other talents. Nanase Natsume’s Dungeon Sumikko Gurashi ~Jitsuryoku Mujikaku-kei Haishinsha o Seken wa Hisshi de Sagashidasu. Hayaku Dungeon kara Detekite!? and Aoi Miyazaki’s Bibō no Shōnen no Katei Kyōshi o Shiteitara Ikeoji Kōshaku ni Propose Saretan desu ga? both received special prizes, showcasing the depth of talent among the more than 6,000 submissions. A total of 16 animation studios participated as judges in the award process, emphasizing the industry’s investment in discovering fresh narratives.
