More on release of Kitano's first English publication

From VERTICAL:

Japanese Filmmaker Takeshi Kitano's Short Story Collection in US Next Summer

July 10, 2006 – Vertical, Inc. announces acquisition of English rights to publish Shonen (Boy) - a collection of three stories by acclaimed film director Takeshi Kitano (aka Beat Takeshi).
Originally published in 1992 by Shinchosha, Kitano's short story-collection explores the coming-of-age of three adolescent boys.

The first story is about a ten year old who despite excelling at schoolwork cannot shrug off his younger brother's superiority in sports. When he finally gets a chance to show off his athleticism, he gets excited despite himself. The second story is about a twelve year old who has just moved into a new city with his brother. They consider themselves fledgeling "astronomers," but the new schoolmates make fun of how cheap and low-quality their telescope is. The third
story is about a 16 year old boy with a penchant for history. He makes a solo
trip to Kyoto, only to run into a modern-day hood rat at his hotel. He becomes
immersed with her gang and ends up giving them all his money.

Boy will be translated by noted Haruki Murakami-translator Alfred Birnbaum, for Summer 2007 release.