Lonely Castle in the Mirror

"Lonely Castle in the Mirror" (Japanese: かがみの孤城, Kagami no Kojō) is a Japanese novel written by Mizuki Tsujimura, published in 2017. It tells the story of seven students who are avoiding school, discovering that their bedroom mirrors shine, pulling them into a wondrous castle. There, a girl in a wolf mask informs them of a hidden key that grants a wish. They must find it before the end of the school year and leave the castle by 5 PM daily, or face dire consequences. As time passes, they share their stories and find a deep connection. The story explores themes of loneliness, bullying, and friendship during adolescence, blending fantasy and reality. The novel has been adapted into a manga and an anime film, which premiered in 2022, receiving nominations and praise globally.