Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Children’s author Rieko Nakagawa, best known for her heartwarming “Guri and Gura” picture book series featuring twin field mice, passed away at the age of 89 in Tokyo. Born in Sapporo, Hokkaido, in 1935, Nakagawa’s legacy lives on through her enchanting stories that have captured the hearts of children worldwide.
After studying to become a nursery school teacher at Tokyo Metropolitan school, Nakagawa began her writing career with the publication of her first book, “Iya Iya En,” in 1962. The following year, she introduced readers to the lovable duo of Guri and Gura, who embark on whimsical adventures in the forest.
Inspired by the children at the day care center where she worked, Nakagawa aimed to create stories that would bring joy and delight to young readers. Alongside her younger sister, Yuriko Yamawaki, who illustrated her books, Nakagawa’s creations have become timeless classics that continue to be cherished by generations.
The “Guri and Gura” series, with its endearing characters and captivating storytelling, has sold over 22 million copies and been translated into multiple languages. Nakagawa’s impact on children’s literature extends beyond her most famous works, including titles like “Momo Iro No Kirin” and “The Sky Blue Seed.”
In addition to her writing, Nakagawa penned the lyrics for the theme song of the beloved animated film “My Neighbor Totoro.” Her contributions to the world of children’s entertainment were recognized with the Kikuchi Kan Prize in 2013, cementing her legacy as a literary icon.
As we mourn the loss of Rieko Nakagawa, her stories will continue to inspire and enchant readers of all ages, keeping her spirit alive through the magic of storytelling.
Children’s book author Rieko Nakagawa dies at age 89
Who was Rieko Nakagawa?
Children’s author Rieko Nakagawa was known for her beloved “Guri and Gura” picture book series about twin field mice. She passed away at the age of 89 in a hospital in Tokyo on October 14.
What was Nakagawa’s background?
Rieko Nakagawa was born in Sapporo, Hokkaido, in 1935. She graduated from Tokyo Metropolitan school, where she studied to become a nursery school teacher. After graduating, she worked at a children’s day care center in Tokyo.
How did Nakagawa start her writing career?
While working at the day care center, Nakagawa began writing her first book, “Iya Iya En,” which featured a preschool-age boy who hated many things. The book was published in 1962. The following year, she published the first of the “Guri and Gura” picture books, which became a long-selling classic.
What inspired Nakagawa to write the “Guri and Gura” series?
Nakagawa was inspired to write the “Guri and Gura” series by the children at her day care center who loved a book called “Little Black Sambo,” which featured pancakes. She wanted to give the children an even better treat, leading to the creation of the field mice twins who find an egg in the forest, bake castella, and share it with the other animals.
Who illustrated Nakagawa’s books?
Nakagawa’s books were illustrated by her younger sister, Yuriko Yamawaki (maiden name Omura). Unfortunately, Yamawaki passed away in 2022.
What was the impact of the “Guri and Gura” series?
The first book in the “Guri and Gura” series sold a total of 5.71 million copies, making it a long-selling classic. The series has been translated into multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, and is loved by children all over the world. In total, the 22-book series has sold more than 22 million copies.
What other works did Nakagawa create?
In addition to the “Guri and Gura” series, Rieko Nakagawa wrote many other children’s books, including “Momo Iro No Kirin” (a pink giraffe) and “The Sky Blue Seed.” She also wrote the lyrics for the theme song of the animated film “My Neighbor Totoro.”
What recognition did Nakagawa receive?
Rieko Nakagawa and her sister, Yuriko Yamawaki, won the Kikuchi Kan Prize in 2013 for their contributions to children’s literature.
Sources: Asahi
Sad news has struck the literary world as renowned children’s author, Nakagawa, has passed away at the age of 89. Her family has decided to hold a private funeral service for her, with her eldest son, Kakuta, being the chief mourner. The loss of such a talented and beloved writer has left many wondering whether a public gathering will be organized to celebrate her life and legacy.
Nakagawa’s journey as a writer began in Sapporo, Hokkaido, where she was born in 1935. After completing her education at the Tokyo Metropolitan school, where she trained to become a nursery school teacher, she went on to work at a children’s day care center in Tokyo. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for writing and began penning her first book, “Iya Iya En,” which was published in 1962.
The following year, Nakagawa introduced the world to the lovable field mice twins, Guri and Gura, in her picture book series. The first book in the series, where the twins discover an egg in the forest and bake castella to share with other animals, quickly became a hit among children. Nakagawa drew inspiration from the children at the day care center, who adored a book called “Little Black Sambo,” featuring pancakes, and wanted to create something even more special for them.
Nakagawa’s books were brought to life through the beautiful illustrations of her younger sister, Yuriko Yamawaki. Tragically, Yamawaki passed away in 2022, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of collaboration with her sister. The “Guri and Gura” series went on to sell millions of copies, becoming a beloved classic that transcended borders and languages, touching the hearts of children worldwide.
In addition to the “Guri and Gura” series, Nakagawa authored numerous other children’s books, including “Momo Iro No Kirin” (a pink giraffe) and “The Sky Blue Seed.” Her creative talents extended beyond writing, as she also penned the lyrics for the theme song of the beloved animated film “My Neighbor Totoro.”
Nakagawa’s contributions to children’s literature were recognized with the Kikuchi Kan Prize in 2013, honoring her dedication to storytelling and her ability to captivate young readers with her enchanting tales. Her impact on the world of children’s literature will continue to be felt for generations to come, as her books remain cherished treasures that spark imagination and joy in the hearts of readers everywhere.
As we bid farewell to Nakagawa, we remember her as a visionary storyteller whose words will live on in the hearts of those who have been touched by her enchanting tales. Her legacy as a beloved children’s author will continue to inspire and delight readers of all ages, ensuring that her spirit remains alive in the pages of her timeless stories.