Tokyo-based artist and illustrator Mateusz Urbanowicz was inspired to create this side project, "Bicycle Boy", by the Studio Ghibli classic "Whisper of the Heart." And it's so impressively done, you could probably put it shoulder to shoulder with that title and others and find no shame.

It's not simply the beautiful water-coloring that stands out, but the series seems to carry with it the nostalgic charm and innocence of a Ghibli title. The illustrated series tells the story of a young boy peddling toward his goal on his faithful bicycle, braving the elements and racing past modern day Japan-inspired scenery, using the same sketchbooks that Miyazaki Hayao used for his concept sketches.

Take a look, enjoy, and try and imagine the story being told here.

Like all good stories, our protagonist starts out with resolve and a sense of adventure...

...the locals wonder where he could be headed so fast, but he has no time to answer...

...but the path is hard and challenging...

...and even when taking shelter, he keeps his mind on the prize...

...and he's back on the path toward his goal once again...

...because if you can just show a little perseverance...

...there's a finish line that makes any trial worth it. Every time.