<![CDATA[Realistic depiction and representation of harsh reality of life have markedly emerged in children’s literature. In the age of global conversation around bullying and sexual violence, investigating trauma—formerly a forbidden, delicate topic—has gained crucial momentum. Accordingly, this study (1) examines Eyes’ traumatic disorders in Heaven (2022) by Mieko Kawakami, and (2) unveils his result of trauma recovery journey. Applying a descriptive-qualitative approach, data were gathered through systematic close reading and note-taking, and interpreted according to Judith Herman’s theory of trauma. It is revealed that Eyes’ trauma stems from chronic emotional and physical bullying, as well as non-direct sex violence, leading to extreme disassociation. His recuperation is represented as incomplete and precarious. There are moments of safety through a comforting letter-writing, yet they are unstable. Remembrance and mourning stages are constrained, as exemplified by lack of self-consciousness, absence of empathy from others, and no professional help. Reconnection falls through when he chooses a physical transformation through eye surgery over emotional recovery and relational reconciliation. To conclude, “Eyes” is an example of a silent and silenced trauma victim, whose continuous anonymity throughout the entire story functions as a form of personal, social, and narrative erasure, indicating unsuccessful trauma recovery. From this novel, the significance of performing open and honest discussion supportive environment, and empathetic team—among peers, between students-teachers, children-parents, and general public—emerge as a set of central educational message.]]>
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