After her parents divorce, An Uekusa and her mother move from Tokyo to rural Shimane. Used to the anonymity of city living, An can't get used to the almost overbearing kindness of the people in her mother's hometown. But when personal tragedy strikes, An discovers how much she needs that kindness.<br /><br />In 2005 Sand Chronicles was awarded the 50th Shogakukan Manga Award for shōjo manga.