Exciting News: A Sequel to the Award-Winning Picture Book 'Neko to Kotori' Released!

Exciting News: The Sequel to 'Neko to Kotori'

World Cultural Publishing is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of 'Aoi Kotori,' the sequel to the award-winning picture book 'Neko to Kotori.' Scheduled for release on October 2, this delightful children's book continues the enchanting story crafted by renowned author Hiroshi Tatemo and talented illustrator Makoto Nakano.

A Tale from a Bird's Perspective

Since the success of 'Neko to Kotori,' which won several accolades including the Japan Picture Book Prize and the Parent-Child Book Award, about three years have passed. In this new installment, readers will experience a unique story told from a small bird's perspective, contrasting with the cat's view in the previous book. This tale dives into the unseen connections between the bird and the cat, alongside themes of family and the hope for a bright future.

Synopsis of 'Aoi Kotori'

In 'Aoi Kotori,' a little bird searches tirelessly through the forests for a branch of the fist tree to build a precious nest. One day, the bird encounters a cat who cannot smell. The bird politely asks the cat, "Could you share just a bit of that branch with me?" As their friendship grows, the bird was able to borrow one branch each day from the cat.

A Richly Illustrated Adventure

'Aoi Kotori' promises to deliver an even more expansive scale and intricate illustrations than its predecessor. The story blossoms with themes of life and hope in the forest, enriching the universe that connects both tales. The stunning illustrations are a product of detailed field research across Japan, capturing the essence of nature on every page.

Art Exhibition to Celebrate the Release

To commemorate the release, an exhibition titled "Tatemo Hiroshi's Picture Book Work" will be held, showcasing not only 'Aoi Kotori' but also other wonderful titles published by World Cultural Publishing, such as 'Usagi no Shima' by Eri Kondo and 'Amagaeru no Tanjou' illustrated by Haruko Kawashima.

- Exhibition Duration: October 3, 2025 - January 26, 2026
- Location: 'Ehon Bijutsukan Mori no Ouchi' (Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture)
- Ehon Bijutsukan Mori no Ouchi

Related Events

- Children's Tatemo Class: October 25 - A drawing workshop using items found in the forest.
- Adult's Tatemo Class: October 26 - Exploring, talking, and workshop sessions.
- Talk Event: November 23 - “Tatemo Hiroshi: Reflecting on the Past to Move Forward” (Book signing included).

For inquiries and registration, please call 0263-83-5670 (available from Sunday to Wednesday & Friday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM).

Author and Illustrator Profiles

- Hiroshi Tatemo (館野鴻)

Born in Kanagawa in 1968, he is a celebrated painter and picture book author. He studied under renowned illustrator Chikabo Kumada from a young age. Tatemo has received multiple awards for his works, including the Shogakukan Children's Publishing Culture Award and the Japan Picture Book Prize.

- Makoto Nakano

Born in Kanagawa in 1984, Nakano is an accomplished artist and illustrator. After graduating from Musashino Art University and working at a design company, she pursued a career as an illustrator while learning from Hiroshi Tatemo. Her debut work earned her the Japan Picture Book Prize alongside 'Neko to Kotori.'