book written entirely in kana
Refers to a book written solely in kana, without kanji. Often contrasted with 真名本 (まなぼん), a book written entirely in kanji. Used in historical or literary contexts.
See also: 真名本
In the Heian period, women wrote many books entirely in kana.
Compound of 仮名 (kana, 'kana script') and 本 (hon, 'book'), with rendaku voicing of ほん to ぼん.