On Thursday, April 23rd, a double event was held at “Koryu Jun-kissa Nagori” in the Joyful Minowa Shopping Street: a picture book reading called “The World of Picture Books” by picture book therapist Tomoko Osaki, and “The Traveling Fortune Teller’s Mansion” by fortune teller Tsukasa.
Although the fortune-telling session had to be cut short that day due to the fortune teller falling ill, the picture book reading was enveloped in a warm, peaceful atmosphere, creating a wonderful time that relaxed the hearts of the visitors. Here is a report on how the day unfolded.
Picture Book Readings Blending into the Retro Cafe Atmosphere
Whether they had been looking forward to the event beforehand or just happened to drop by for lunch, everyone enjoyed the time in their own way. What was particularly striking was an elderly regular who frequents Nagori. Although they were hearing impaired, they happened to be there eating omurice during the reading, following the illustrations with their eyes and fully soaking in the atmosphere of the event.
After the event, this person quietly handed a letter to the organizer, Tomoko. “It brought back nostalgic memories of the picture books I used to read as a child.” — That single comment truly speaks to what a warm and welcoming space this event provided.
The Four Picture Books Read This Time
The four books Tomoko selected featured themes such as “the current season,” “the start of the new school year,” and “being true to yourself,” offering gentle comfort to the hearts of adults as well.
“Sakurarara”
Text by Junko Masui / Photos by Takuya Kodera (Alice-kan)
Tomoko chose this book after seeing cherry blossoms blooming beautifully on a weekend trip to Lake Suwa, even though the season had already passed in Tokyo. It is a work featuring beautiful photography paired with warm, encouraging messages. It was the kind of picture book that gently shares the joy of the cherry blossom season.
“Kun-chan’s First Day of School” (Buzzy Bear Goes to School)
By Dorothy Marino (Penguin-sha)
A book selected specifically for the start of the new academic year. It tells the story of a little bear boy named Kun-chan, who, despite being nervous about his new environment, gains confidence guided by the warm, watchful eyes of his teacher. The story, which gently encourages anyone starting a new chapter in life, easily brought a touch of warmth to the adults as well.
“The Little Hummingbird’s Little Drop”
By Keisuke Unosawa (Imagination Plus)
Based on a folktale from Central and South America, this is a vibrant picture book crafted by a world-renowned designer. The message—”Even if you are different from others, do what you can do”—resonates both powerfully and gently in the heart. With its richly colored cover, it was a truly eye-catching book.
“Jeppe Loves Hats”
Photos by Yasuhiro Ishigame (Bunka Publishing Bureau)
A photographic picture book capturing the daily life of a three-year-old boy living in Denmark. He absolutely loves hats, and seeing him constantly wearing one is incredibly cute. It reminds us of the importance of having adults around who warmly accept a child’s quirks and individuality, rather than shutting them down with a “No!”.
Even a Regular Storytelling Volunteer Couldn’t Help But Say…
A regular storytelling volunteer also attended and had such a relaxing time that they couldn’t help but remark, “Picture books are especially wonderful when someone reads them to you,”and “I just want to fall asleep right here.” It seems that the experience of “being read to” was quite special, even for someone who usually does the reading.
Whether they had planned to come or dropped by by chance, everyone let us know they “had a great time.”
Summary
This event became a time where everyone, from children to the elderly, could connect with picture books at their own pace. Even if you cannot hear or don’t understand the words, the illustrations in a picture book and the atmosphere of the space can move people’s hearts—it was an event that truly reaffirmed the power of picture books.
We are planning to host more events at Koryu Jun-kissa Nagori in the future. Please feel free to stop by!