Kenzo Tange: From a Single Pencil is a biographical volume dedicated to the life and reflections of Kenzo Tange. Published as part of the Japanese series Ningen no Kiroku (“Records of Human Lives”), the book presents a personal account of the architect’s intellectual development and professional career.

The title refers to the idea that every architectural project begins with a single line drawn by hand, symbolizing the creative process behind Tange’s work. The book traces his early life in Ehime Prefecture, his education at the University of Tokyo, and the experiences that shaped his architectural philosophy.

Through autobiographical reflections, the volume revisits the projects that established Tange as one of the most influential architects of the twentieth century, from major public buildings in Japan to international commissions. The narrative offers insight into the cultural, historical, and personal influences that guided his vision and contributed to the global recognition of his architecture.