Creating an Environment Free from Bullying: New Picture Book Based on Scientific Evidence

On March 19, the publishing company Sekai Bunka will release a groundbreaking picture book titled 'Kimi no Tonari no Kurassupi,' created by Ryohei Kadokawa, illustrated by Kimino Tsuda, and supervised by the Public Interest Incorporated Foundation for Child Development Science Research Institute. This book takes an innovative approach to bullying prevention by using scientific research as its foundation.

New Approach to Bullying Education

Recent studies related to bullying have revealed a startling fact: a significant number of aggressors often do not realize they are perpetrating bullying. Many justify their harmful actions by stating they were simply joking or that the victim misinterpreted their intentions. Therefore, traditional approaches merely stating that bullying is wrong have proven to be insufficient.

The book features a character named Kurassupi, who represents these misguided thoughts in a relatable way. By introducing this character, children can reflect on their own thoughts, potentially identify their biases, and ultimately prevent unconscious harmful behavior. The name Kurassupi is derived from 'Class Spirit,' representing a guardian or fairy of the classroom.

Learning Positive Behavior from 'Good Kurassupi'

The book depicts good Kurassupi as a kind presence watching over daily classroom activities. Alongside a child who greets everyone cheerfully is the 'Cheerful Monkey,' while the 'Helpful Sheep' hovers nearby to assist another student in need. A total of twelve different Kurassupi characters are presented, each embodying positive qualities that foster a warm, supportive classroom environment. They serve as engaging role models, instilling the importance of positive actions in a fun and relatable way.

Learning to Recognize Misguided Thoughts Through 'Troublesome Kurassupi'

Conversely, when a child entertains misguided thoughts, good Kurassupi transforms into 'Troublesome Kurassupi.' The Cheerful Monkey may turn into the 'Overzealous Monkey,' while the Helpful Sheep might become the 'Nervous Sheep.' These troublesome manifestations relate directly to bullying behavior, conveying the message that anyone can fall into the trap of flawed thinking, known as 'Thinking Errors (R).' The book emphasizes the importance of first recognizing these erroneous thoughts and thereafter correcting them.

Comprehensive Resources for Adults

Beyond its appeal for children, the book is also an invaluable resource for adults. It can be utilized in various settings, including moral education, school activities, community events, or as a shared reading experience at home. An informative section aimed at adults is provided at the end, where readers can further educate themselves about the concept of Thinking Errors, thereby enhancing their understanding and ability to address bullying situations.

Explore examples of anti-bullying program implementations

Note: Thinking Errors is a registered trademark of the Child Development Science Research Institute.

About the Author

- Ryohei Kadokawa: A game and workshop developer who launched an educational company after serving as a primary school teacher. He collaborates with schools and organizations to design gamified learning programs, including the 'Kurassupi' project in partnership with the Child Development Science Research Institute.
- Kimino Tsuda: An illustrator engaged in creating gamified educational materials and manga. Tsuda has worked on character designs and visual elements for the 'Kurassupi' project and also undertakes painting projects under a different name.
- Public Interest Incorporated Foundation for Child Development Science Research Institute: A dedicated organization supporting children's healthy development through research and societal implementation of findings related to bullying and school attendance issues.

Publication Information

- Title: 'Kimi no Tonari no Kurassupi'
- Author: Ryohei Kadokawa
- Illustrator: Kimino Tsuda
- Supervisor: Public Interest Incorporated Foundation for Child Development Science Research Institute
- Release Date: March 19, 2026
- Price: 1,870 yen (tax included)
- Format: A4 variant, 34 pages
- Published by: Sekai Bunka
- Links: Book Information | Amazon Page

Related Publications

- 'I Saw Bullying!'

- Author: Manabu Wakuta
- Illustrators: Yuto Imokawa and Chihiro Imokawa
- Supervisor: Public Interest Incorporated Foundation for Child Development Science Research Institute
- Release Date: October 31, 2024
- Price: 1,650 yen (tax included)
- Format: A4 variant, 32 pages
- Published by: Sekai Bunka
- Links: Book Information | Amazon Page