Mushime To Anime (虫眼とアニ眼) is a collaborative book effort by renowned anime director Miyazaki Hayao and novelist Yoro Takeshi. The title is a wordplay on the Kanji character for “eyes” ( a reference to the 2 authors who are visionaries in their respective fields ), and the book is a transcript of the conversation between Miyazaki and Yoro as they use two Ghibli films ( Princess Mononoke & Spirited Away ) as a springboard to discuss environmental and ecology issues, as well as Man’s ability to co-exist with nature.
The topics covered will no doubt be an interesting read if you can understand Japanese, but even if not Miyazaki-san’s beautiful watercolor illustrations for the book are still a pleasure to look at.
(above right) Miyazaki-san and Yoro-san also appear as caricature versions of themselves in the illustrations, Miyazaki-san in his usual alter-ego of his power animal, a pig, and Yoro-san is represented by a terrier. Both are wearing shirts with their kanji names on it.
Please note that this is not an art book, and the bulk of the contents is Japanese text. Miyazaki-san’s charming illustrations however are worth the price of the book, in my opinion.
“Mushime To Anime Miyazaki Hayao Book 虫眼とアニ眼 養老孟司/宮崎駿” artbook details :
– Dimensions – 15.4 x 10.8 x 1.2 cm
– Softcover with jacket, 192 pages ( hard cover edition is also available )
– Full color (watercolor), In Japanese
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November 18th, 2014 at 1:48 am
“… in my opinion.” and you’re right! beautiful watercolour storytelling.
November 19th, 2014 at 11:23 am
oh man.. i wish i can read japanese… planning to buy this nevertheless. thanks for the review!
November 19th, 2014 at 9:44 pm
nyuudo – :]
Charles – The illustrations are delightful just on their own ! :]
November 20th, 2014 at 6:53 am
Un libro muy interesante, como todo lo que dibuja Hayao Miyazaki. Lastima que yo no sepa japonés.
November 23rd, 2014 at 9:21 pm
I wonder if Viz Media is willing to translate this book in a close future. As a Primary School teacher (and a Miyazaki-san admirer) I find it very interesting for educational purposes.
November 24th, 2014 at 12:35 am
luisgoros – The illustrations can still be enjoyed if you don’t understand Japanese. :]
yaridovic – I would say the chances are quite small, although I’m definitely for it.
Interestingly enough, Miyazaki and Yoro-san wrote this book with children and young adults in mind, because they understand that education in these matters is very important and that children are the future of the country.
December 16th, 2014 at 9:46 am
Man you have done such an excellent job with Halcyonrealms.com its one of my top favorite get in the know sites. Insightful and addicting. I couldn’t ask for a better place to study while drinking tea. Thank you