Celebrating 50 Years of Beloved Picture Book Series 'Nontan': Three New Titles to Be Simultaneously Released on July 30, 2026

An exhibition commemorating the 50th anniversary of the picture book series 'Nontan' (created and illustrated by Sachiko Kiyono, published by Kaisei-sha) will begin on July 18 at PLAY! MUSEUM. Concurrently, a new picture book titled 'Nontan's House' will be released in August by Kaisei-sha.

Blue Sheep will simultaneously release three new books on July 30. The book design is by Shun Sasaki (AYOND), who also handles the exhibition visuals. This lineup offers a fresh perspective on the world of Nontan picture books.

1. 'Hey Hey, Nontan'

A children's book where Nontan's illustrations and words playfully come to life

Featuring various expressions of Nontan drawn from the series, this book revitalizes the character with bold colors and innovative compositions unlike previous portrayals. 'Hey hey, Nontan!' 'Paa!' 'Not here, not here!' 'Be-ro-rin-kon!'—Nontan is busy being mischievous, running, jumping, laughing, and crying. This book invites readers to play along with Nontan while reciting the playful phrases.

'Hey Hey, Nontan' Price: ¥1,650 (tax included)

Illustrations: Sachiko Kiyono, Layout: Shun Sasaki (AYOND), Edited by: Aya Nagao

B5 modified size (185×185mm), 32 pages, hardcover, ISBN: 978-4908356-80-3

2. 'Oh No, Nontan'

A heartwarming book for adults that captures Nontan's honest emotions

When things go wrong, when feeling lonely or overwhelmed—Nontan quickly returns to his cheerful self through big smiles and the kindness of beloved friends. Though childlike and free-spirited, Nontan is always honest about his feelings and looks forward with optimism. This book compiles 30 touching scenes that gently soothe the heart.

'Oh No, Nontan' Price: ¥1,650 (tax included)

Illustrations and text: Sachiko Kiyono, Written and edited by: Aya Nagao

Standard B6 size, 128 pages, paperback, ISBN: 978-4908356-81-0

3. 'Mama Nontan: Original Art Collection'

An exhibition catalog to discover Nontan through original artwork

Sachiko Kiyono, the creator of 'Nontan,' affectionately referred to herself as 'Mama Nontan.' This commemorative exhibition catalog features around 50 original artworks and sketches by Mama Nontan, along with valuable commentary. Enjoy vibrant illustrations of Nontan and friends running through meadows, discover the secrets behind Nontan's creation, learn about the picture book production process, and hear personal stories from the editor. This book deepens your appreciation for Nontan.

'Mama Nontan: Original Art Collection' Price: ¥2,200 (tax included)

Illustrations: Sachiko Kiyono, Commentary and editing: Aya Nagao, Assistant editor: Sae Kaneko

Standard A4 size, 80 pages, paperback, ISBN: 978-4908356-82-7

Book Common Information

Book design: Shun Sasaki, Ryuji Ooka (AYOND) Publisher: Blue Sheep

Sales schedule: Advance sales at PLAY! MUSEUM on July 18, 2026 (Sat), bookstore release on July 30 (Thu)

Publisher page: https://bluesheep.jp/projects/nontan-book

Book credits: ©SACHIKO KIYONO / MIKA KIYONO / KAISEI-SHA ©Blue Sheep

[Related Information] New release from Kaisei-sha: 'Nontan's House'

'Nontan's House'

A pop-up picture book, the first new title in the series in seven years, to be released in August.

When opened, the book unfolds into three rooms, creating an immersive 3D experience.

'Nontan 50th Anniversary: Always Friends!!!' Exhibition at PLAY! MUSEUM

Immerse yourself in a world where you enter 'Nontan's' dream, celebrate 'Nontan,' and play 'with Nontan.' Following an original story built around the three keywords 'no,' 'wo,' and 'to,' experience the positive and kind world of Nontan through video installations and 3D artworks. Approximately 50 colorful original illustrations and sketches from the picture books will also be displayed. After the Tokyo venue, the exhibition will tour nationwide.

Dates: July 18 (Sat), 2026 – September 27 (Sun) Opening hours: 10:00–18:00 (last entry at 17:30), open throughout the period

Venue: PLAY! MUSEUM (3-1 Midori-cho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo 190-0014, GREEN SPRINGS W3 Building, 2F)

Official website: https://play2020.jp/article/nontan50/

The 'Nontan' Series

The series began in 1976 with the bestsellers 'Nontan on the Swing,' 'Nontan Goodnight,' and 'Nontan Sticking Out Tongue,' and now includes 41 titles. Total circulation exceeds 35 million copies (as of May 2026).

Sachiko Kiyono

Born in Tokyo in 1947. Debuted in 1976 with 'Nontan on the Swing' (Kaisei-sha). She went on to publish 23 volumes of the 'Let's Play, Nontan' series and related works such as the 'Baby Nontan' series. 'Nontan' became her representative work, surpassing 35 million copies in total circulation. Passed away in 2008.