Kako Satoshi: Yokohama Exhibition Celebrates Picture Book Master
A Yokohama exhibition celebrates the works of picture book author Kako Satoshi 100 years after his birth. Kako’s stories of Little Daruma, novice thieves, and crow bakers have charmed generations of Japanese children.
An exhibition honoring the centennial of Japanese children's book author Kako Satoshi (1926-2018) is on display at the Kanagawa Museum of Modern Literature until September 23. Known for over 600 titles, Kako is celebrated for his Little Daruma series, which reimagines the Buddhist monk Daruma as a curious child exploring Japanese folklore and beliefs. His daughter, Suzuki Mari, notes that Little Daruma embodies various aspects of children Kako met throughout his life.
A highlight of the exhibition is a comparative display of initial sketches and final artworks for Little Daruma and Little Tengu, showcasing Kako's meticulous attention to detail. The characters interact with cultural figures such as the thunder god, rabbits, a tiger cub, and Daikokuten, the god of prosperity. Books from the series have been translated into multiple languages.
Before his writing career, Kako studied applied chemistry at the University of Tokyo and engaged in theater activities. He later worked in a social welfare program supporting children's learning and play in Kawasaki, Kanagawa, where he drew pictures and created kamishibai (paper theater) stories. One such work, My Mother, drew inspiration from children's writings and pictures depicting families impacted by war. This and other early works are now displayed at the exhibition for the first time.
Kako's career began with The Dam Builders, published by a publisher who was drawn to one of his drawings. His popular Thief School series, based on a kamishibai work, features a principal who mistakenly trains students in thievery. Kako's crow-themed series, exemplified by Mr. Crow's Bakery, showcases eccentric bread creations that captivate young readers. The crow series is rooted in Kako's observations from his community work.
In addition to storytelling, Kako wrote science picture books emphasizing honesty and curiosity in understanding science. Works like Autumn and Papo the Jellyfish, reflecting his disillusionment with the militaristic system following World War II, were published posthumously. Kako also created peace-related posters and shared insights on peace through his 2014 autobiography, To the Little Darumas of the Future, featuring quotes available at the exhibition's exit.
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