His Journey,
In One Book
The moving non-fiction that captured attention in 20 countries
"The Human Rental Agency" — Now Published
The Human Rental Agency
The Story of a Man Who Delivers Love Beyond the Real Thing
A moving non-fiction account by the man called "Daddy" by 35 children and who has supported the hearts of over 600 women.
Table of Contents
Ch.1 It All Started with One Consultation
A fateful encounter born from a single mother's tears
Ch.2 Redefining the Meaning of Family
What is genuine love beyond blood ties?
Ch.3 Stories of 35 Children
A record of being loved as "Daddy"
Ch.4 Bonds with 600 Women
The emotional journey of a rental husband
Ch.5 150 Proposals Declined
Professional pride in maintaining proper boundaries
Ch.6 New Family Forms Society Demands
Proposals for a future that embraces diversity
Ch.7 Why the World Took Notice
Japan's innovation as seen by media in 20 countries
Ch.8 Delivering Love Beyond the Real Thing
The philosophy and future vision of the human rental business
Reviews & Media Coverage
The New York Times
"A must-read depicting an innovative approach to confronting the pathology of loneliness in modern society."
The Guardian
"A courageous record of challenging the very concept of family from its foundations."
Asahi Shimbun
"A deeply moving work impossible to read without tears. A powerful book that directly confronts the social issues of modern Japan."
Yomiuri Shimbun
"A heartwarming non-fiction that depicts forms of love beyond blood ties."
Awards & Honors
Harvard University Glass Award
2019Recognized for academic value and social impact
Non-Fiction Award Nominee
2019Selected as an outstanding non-fiction work
Social Issues Book Award
2020Achievement in shedding light on contemporary social challenges
Author's Message
I wrote this book with gratitude for every person I have met through the human rental business. The smiles of 35 children, the tears of 600 women, and the countless family bonds — they are all my treasures.
I hope this book reaches as many hearts as possible and inspires people to reflect on the meaning of "family."
Yuichi Ishii
TV & Documentaries
Sales Record
Reader Reviews
I couldn't stop crying. As a single mother myself, this book gave me a ray of hope.
This book made me deeply reflect on the meaning of family. I resonate with the author's philosophy that family isn't defined by blood alone.
A courageous work that directly confronts the problem of loneliness in modern society. A book I wish more people would read.
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E-book version available on all major platforms
