#Japan #Chiyoda #Rachel Bright #Hio Miyazawa #Jim Field

A New Adventure Awaits with 'Advancing Turtle'

The highly anticipated children’s picture book, Advancing Turtle, is set to be launched on May 27, 2026, by Two Virgins Inc., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo. This book marks the seventh release in the popular translated picture book series, renowned for reaching over 6 million copies globally and being translated into 43 languages. The translation for this edition is done by the talented actor Hio Miyazawa, who is no stranger to this task, as he previously worked on Whale of Wishes in this same series.

Advancing Turtle continues the legacy of celebrated British author Rachel Bright and the widely acclaimed illustrator Jim Field. The duo has created a magical world for children, filled with adorable animal characters. Like previous translations done by Japanese celebrities such as actress Sakura Ando, comedian Takashi Fujii, and former football star Atsuto Uchida, this book is expected to resonate deeply with audiences and continue the dialogue around children's literature in Japan.

A Spark of Courage - Miyazawa's Reflections

Hio Miyazawa shared his thoughts on the project, stating, “A tiny courage can create significant change. This story teaches us the importance of taking that first step.” Miyazawa, who has captivated audiences with his performances in various television dramas, films, and stage productions, emphasizes the importance of storytelling, especially in the realm of children’s literature.

An Engaging Storyline

The storyline begins in a serene midnight setting on a sandy beach, lit by the glow of the moon. Here, baby sea turtles make their dramatic debut, each one welcomed by a plethora of supporting animal friends. The lead character, Tula, races with her brother Tiny to make it to the ocean. However, risks abound on their sandy path, and Tiny goes missing amidst the chaos. With dawning light threatening their journey, will the spirited little turtles reach the safety of the sea?

The book carries a powerful message—that every small presence has the potential to make a big difference in the world. Tula reminds readers that determination and support can overcome obstacles, creating a captivating experience for children and parents alike.

About the Book

Advancing Turtle

• - Author: Rachel Bright
• - Illustrator: Jim Field
• - Translator: Hio Miyazawa
• - Price: ¥1,980 (¥1,800 + tax)
• - Format: A4 Variant (210mm × 260mm × 10mm), hardcover, 32 pages, full color
• - ISBN: 978-4-86791-090-0
• - Release Date: May 27, 2026 (release dates may vary by region)
• - Publisher: Two Virgins Inc.

Meet the Creators

Hio Miyazawa, born on April 24, 1994, in the U.S., made his acting debut in the second season of the NHK drama Code Blue. He has since been involved in various notable projects, including films and plays, with the latest highlights being his award-winning performance in Egoist.

Rachel Bright is an award-winning children’s book author whose enchanting stories have captivated hearts across 43 languages. Her creative process flourishes in her printmaking studio by the sea. Jim Field, a celebrated illustrator and character designer, has received prestigious awards like the Roald Dahl Award. He resides near Paris with his family and their spirited cat.

Explore the Series

In addition to Advancing Turtle, the series features other remarkable titles, including:

• - Heart of the Lion
• - Lazy Koala
• - Welcome Back, Wolf
• - Whale of Wishes (translated by Miyazawa)
• - And many more that speak to the themes of courage, friendship, and discovery.

Don't miss the chance to embark on this inspiring journey with Advancing Turtle, a book that promises to ignite imagination and impart vital life lessons to its readers.