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New Picture Book 'Nakanaka Ienai Uuntone' Set to Release

World Cultural Company is excited to announce the launch of the picture book "Nakanaka Ienai Uuntone," written and illustrated by Yukari Igata, set to hit the shelves on September 18. This charming book aims to resonate with children who find it challenging to express their feelings verbally.

In a world where every child has a unique emotional landscape, many struggle to articulate their wants, needs, and frustrations. Some children may feel overwhelmed in bustling environments, leading to hesitation in expressing themselves. "Nakanaka Ienai Uuntone" is a gentle companion for those young readers, helping them navigate the complexities of their emotions.

A Recommendation from Summer Yokozawa

The book has been endorsed by comedian and mother of three, Summer Yokozawa, whose thoughtful words grace the cover. In her endorsement, she shares, "I’ve finally understood why I feel nervous when talking to others! This book clarifies the whirlwind of emotions in our heads, providing courage for both parents and children to understand and share their feelings better."

The Story of Naokun and His Emotional Journey

The protagonist, Naokun, struggles to express his feelings, often visualizing them as eggs. When his kindergarten, Kurinikien, decides to host a musical performance, the children face the challenge of choosing which instruments to play. Naokun’s emotional journey unfolds through the metaphor of eggs rolling through various experiences, symbolizing his internal struggle and the desire to find his voice.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

Throughout the pages, readers will follow the adventures of Naokun’s "emotional eggs" as they embark on a journey, exploring the uncertainties that accompany their desires and voices. What destinations will these eggs reach? How will Naokun ultimately navigate his feelings?

Early Reactions from Readers

Prior to its official release, the book was previewed online, garnering a heartwarming response from early readers. Here are some highlights from the feedback:

• - "I completely resonated with the imagery of my thoughts getting stuck! The scenes depicting Naokun’s struggle to choose from limited musical instruments were beautifully illustrated and relatable."
• - "This book captures the essence of a child’s frustration, perfectly illustrating their difficulty in communicating their genuine feelings."
• - "Reading about Naokun's emotional tension as he battled his fear was an unforgettable moment!"
• - "I felt an overwhelming urge to hold my friend’s hand tightly after finishing the book."

About the Author

Yukari Igata, born in Miyagi Prefecture, is a talented storyteller and illustrator. After graduating from Tokyo Women’s University, she honed her skills in picture book creation at Tokyo Designer Gakuin. In addition to her illustration work for the Koguma-za theater, she has received several awards, including the First Prize in the Ninth Japanese New Drug Children’s Literature Award for Illustration. This book marks her first published picture book.

Publishing Information

Title: Nakanaka Ienai Uuntone
Author/Illustrator: Yukari Igata
Release Date: September 18, 2025
Price: 1,650 yen (tax included)
Specifications: A4 size, 24 pages
Publisher: Sekai Bunka Wonder Group
Published by: Sekai Bunka Co., Ltd.
Book Link
Amazon Link