#Japan #Kobe #Karen #Garden of Tears #EMON EDITION

Introducing 'The Garden of Tears'

The renowned publishing label EMON EDITION is set to unveil 'The Garden of Tears', the debut adult picture book by dressmaker Karen, on May 1, 2026. The book promises to offer an innovative artistic experience that blends the intricate world of dressmaking with heartfelt storytelling.

A Unique Approach to Storytelling

'\ The Garden of Tears' represents a fresh approach to adult literature by transforming the art of dressmaking into a captivating narrative form. The book showcases various techniques involved in creating a dress, such as embroidery, draping, dyeing with plant extracts, and the delicate balance between machine and hand sewing. Karen cleverly overlaps these methodologies with deep emotional themes, blurring the lines between illustration and garment design, and creating a bridge between the world of the picture book and reality.

The narrative unfolds in a mystical garden filled with mist, under moonlight, where blue flowers sway gently in a quiet night. Here, three flawed animals—a caretaker of the flowers, a caterpillar swathed in a cocoon, and a large cow with a battered horn—wander into this dreamscape, each embodying emotional pain and vulnerability. The book quietly accompanies adults living through daily struggles, fatigue, trauma, anxiety, and unspoken worries, presenting a space for solace.

Romanticism in Dressmaking

At the core of Karen's dressmaking lies a romantic perspective that honors the beauty and intricacy of the creation process, merging aesthetic appeal with the profound human experiences of anxiety, pain, and beauty. Each garment is more than just clothing; it becomes a layer of life's narratives that enhances the individual's emotional journey.

The meticulous crafting of traditional Hyogo specialty paper, the act of toasting fabric petals over candle flames, and the rich pigments of Japanese artistry come together to enrich the narrative's layers. This attention to detail is not merely aesthetic; it serves as a philosophy to connect deeply with readers' hearts.

In a world often ignorant of fleeting joys, 'The Garden of Tears' invites readers to recognize the beauty in their vulnerabilities and struggles.

A Safe Haven for Emotional Expression

Drawing from her own experiences of loss and pain, Karen presents a sanctuary within the garden where individuals can deposit their sorrows. The characters represent her inner struggles, providing readers with a reflective lens through which they can explore their emotions. The caterpillar, swathed in its soft cocoon, symbolizes the potentially transformative journey of confronting fears and moving toward healing, even when feeling trapped.

The story acts as an invitation to pause, breathe, and resonate with one's emotions amidst a fast-paced, overwhelming world. It serves as a 'heart garden' where readers can enter and navigate their feelings softly and quietly.

A Thoughtful Gift for Yourself or Loved Ones

In our ever-changing society, 'The Garden of Tears' captures the essence of what is often lost—a connection to self and the emotional wounds we bear. It gently portrays the tears shed through pain and uncertainty as tokens of cherished memories.

This book emerges as a perfect gift for those who neglect their feelings in the busyness of life. It's a thoughtful offering for anyone who might feel overwhelmed, expressing care and understanding. The book features a cocoon-inspired wrap, creating a sense of wonder as readers enter its world.

Book Information

• - Title: The Garden of Tears
• - Author: Karen
• - Price: 2,420 JPY (including tax and free shipping)
• - Format: Hardcover
• - Genre: Picture Book & Literature
• - Page Count: 78 pages
• - Size: A5 (160mm × 222mm)
• - Release Date: May 1, 2026
• - Publisher: EMON EDITION
• - ISBN: 9784991462405
• - Limited Edition: 150 signed copies available
• - Special Feature: Includes a special bookmark
• - Purchase Link: Official Online Store

About Karen

Karen is a dressmaker and picture book author born in 1999 in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. She began her journey in fashion at an art university, interning at couture brands before gaining hands-on experience in sewing and restoration. As an acclaimed designer, she has showcased her work at notable fashion events and continues to merge her love for fashion with storytelling, having now ventured into writing picture books for adults.

For inquiries about this project, please contact:
EMON EDITION / The Garden of Tears Team
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 03-6826-2126
Website: Karen Moriyama
Instagram: @karenmoriyama_official

About EMON EDITION

EMON EDITION is a Tokyo-based publishing label under DE BLANKK Co., Ltd., focusing on crafting narratives that last within people's lives, nurturing the emotional space and stories that connect through the meticulous handcraft of authors and artisans.