#Japan #Tokyo #picture book #Yoshitake Shinsuke #Blue Sheep

A Unique Take on Thievery in Yoshitake Shinsuke's New Creation

Yoshitake Shinsuke, the renowned author and illustrator, is set to release a delightful picture book titled "まだ大どろぼうになっていないあなたへ" ("To Those Who Are Not Yet Great Thieves") on July 10, 2025. Published by Blue Sheep Co., Ltd., located in Musashino City, Tokyo, this book explores the fascinating world of thieves, uniquely challenging readers' perceptions of what it means to be a thief.

The narrative invites readers to consider becoming a "great thief" — an aspiration that transcends mere criminality. Rather than portraying thieves as mere outlaws, Yoshitake's depiction leans toward a deeper significance; it's about reclaiming what one has unwittingly lost over time. This exploration encourages readers to achieve true freedom by embracing the whimsical idea of becoming a 'great thief' — a gentle yet motivating message wrapped in captivating illustrations, designed to resonate with both children and adults alike.

A Journey Through the Imagination

Yoshitake's narrative is woven into the upcoming exhibition titled "大どろぼうの家" ("The House of Great Thieves"), to be held at the PLAY! MUSEUM, starting July 16, 2025, and running until September 28, 2025. This exhibition is set to capture the imagination of its visitors by inviting them to sneak into the home of a legendary great thief, incorporating a storyline that centers around the whimsical notion of nurturing the next generation of thieves through a picture book.

In this storyline, Yoshitake cleverly captures readers' attention by subverting expectations, offering a surprising depth with his themes. His interpretation of what it means to create a book from a thief's perspective defies conventional storytelling, laying bare the emotional echoes of loss and the thought of recovery through imaginative play.

Exhibition Highlights and Book Details

During the exhibition, original illustrations from the book will be displayed as part of the great thief's collection. The visual richness and the playful themes embedded within the illustrations provide a sneak peek into what Yoshitake has imagined — a playful world where the boundaries of morality are softened by the adventures and misadventures of the characters portrayed.

The book itself is designed to capture attention not only for its content but also for its aesthetics. With a retail price of 1,320 yen (including tax), it is meticulously crafted with a special hardcover format and spans a total of 40 pages. The ISBN for the book is 978-4-908356–69-8, ensuring it's accessible to booksellers nationwide.

About Yoshitake Shinsuke

Born in Kanagawa Prefecture in 1973, Yoshitake Shinsuke is an acclaimed picture book author and illustrator celebrated for his ability to capture the essence of daily experiences through sketches and illustrations. His debut work, "りんごかもしれない" ("It Might Be an Apple"), won various awards, including the 6th MOE Picture Book Store Award. With many accolades to his name and a growing portfolio of influential works — including his recent publications — Yoshitake continues to tour Japan with exhibitions showcasing his artistry.

As part of the promotion for "To Those Who Are Not Yet Great Thieves," fans can visit the special website curated by Blue Sheep, providing more insights into Yoshitake's works and the upcoming exhibition.

This upcoming release is a celebration of the joys of storytelling and a reflection on loss, recovery, and the magical realms found within the pages of a picture book. Readers young and old alike will find intrigue in Yoshitake's beautifully illustrated creations that challenge and delight the imagination.