#Japan #Itabashi #Boku to Moyamoya #Tokyo Kasei University

Itabashi District's Heartfelt Picture Book: 'Boku to Moyamoya'

In a pioneering effort to support children in expressing their emotions, Itabashi Ward in Tokyo has unveiled a new picture book titled 'Boku to Moyamoya' (I and the Mysterious Clouds). This initiative, driven by the growing need for education on how to express SOS signals, aims to empower children to reach out to trusted adults while also equipping these adults to effectively help them.

The creation of this picture book is part of Itabashi's ambitious project to promote SOS education, making good use of the area's reputation as 'the Town of Picture Books.' It showcases the unique resources of the district while addressing an essential aspect of emotional health in children.

The book's development involved collaboration with Professor Yoko Takeda from Tokyo Kasei University, who, along with her students, participated in a series of workshops to craft the characters and narrative. Over five workshop sessions conducted in the fiscal year of 2023, they diligently worked on bringing the story to life, guided by the academic expertise of Professor Takeda.

The narrative follows the protagonist Shikaku-kun, who becomes ensnared by the 'Moyamoya' (the mysterious cloud), symbolizing anxiety and confusion. Through interactions with supportive adults named Daichi-san and Taiju-san, Shikaku learns to face his feelings, processes his emotions, and discovers the importance of consulting trusted adults for support.

The tangible outcomes of the project include digital distribution for elementary school students on tablets, as well as incorporation into classroom activities focusing on mental health for grades three and four. The book will also be made available in Itabashi’s public libraries.

To further this effort, there will be a range of events, including storytelling sessions at the Itabashi Ward Citizen Festival, interactive workshops, and the production of videos that explain the book's themes, all aimed at raising awareness about children's emotional health education.

In a message from Mayor Sakamoto, the significance of this book is highlighted: "I want children reading this book to express their inner 'Moyamoya' and recognize the importance of reaching out for help. Consulting is not something to be ashamed of, and it is crucial for children to understand that opening up can lighten their hearts. If you notice a friend grappling with their own 'Moyamoya', don’t hesitate to reach out. Creating an environment where we support each other is vital."

He also emphasizes the importance of adults understanding how to engage with children struggling with unexpressed worries, urging them to foster dialogue and interaction.

Publication Timeline

• - August 2025: The picture book will be distributed in Itabashi's public libraries, as well as on tablets for elementary school students.
• - October 2025: Storytelling events and workshops will take place during the Itabashi Ward Citizen Festival.
• - Fiscal Year 2025: There will be video productions of the storytelling and the development of lesson plans utilizing the picture book.

Note: All schedules are subject to change.

About the Book

• - Title: Boku to Moyamoya
• - Written by: Tokyo Kasei University Takeda Seminar + Yoshiyuki Maeda
• - Supervised by: Yoko Takeda
• - Published by: Itabashi Ward Health Promotion Division
• - Printing: Keiyu Printing Co., Ltd.
• - Binding: Omura Binding Co., Ltd.
• - Design: Yuji Morieda
• - Editing: Sachiyo Hoso

Currently, there are no plans for general sale or commercial distribution of the book. For more information, contact Itabashi Ward's Health Promotion Division at 03-3579-2329.