(KPL) On March 15, 2026– The Lao-language edition of the internationally acclaimed novel Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata was officially released on March 12, according to an announcement by Dokked Publishing.

The book was also featured during Book Festival 2026 in Vientiane on March 13.

Winner of the prestigious Akutagawa Prize (155th edition), the novel has gained global recognition, with translation rights sold in 44 countries and regions and more than 2.5 million copies sold worldwide.

The story follows Keiko Furukura, a woman who has worked at a convenience store for 18 years and finds comfort in the structured routines of store life. Through humor and sharp social observation, the novel explores themes of individuality and social conformity in modern society.

The Lao edition was translated directly from Japanese by Phonepasert Xaymonty, a former Japanese Government (MEXT) scholarship recipient with extensive academic experience in Japan.

The book was edited by Douangdeuane Bounyavong, a recipient of the Southeast Asian Writers Award and a Lao National Artist.

The translation and publication were supported by the Japan Foundation, which promotes Japanese culture and literature worldwide.

The publication marks the first Lao-language edition of the widely celebrated novel, introducing Murata’s work to readers in Laos.

According to Dokked Publishing, the release is part of a broader effort to bring major works of world literature to Lao readers while promoting Lao literature internationally.

The Lao edition of Convenience Store Woman is now available for 125,000 kip at major bookstores in Vientiane and across Laos.

Media Contact:

Dokked Publishing

Email: dokkedbook@gmail.com

Vientiane, Lao PDR

KPL