From War-Torn Ukraine to Timor-Leste and Haiti: Picture Book 'Stories the Sun Has Seen: Folktales from Five Countries' to Release July 2

Sekaibunka Publishing will release the picture book 'Stories the Sun Has Seen: Folktales from Five Countries' on July 2, 2026 (Thu), featuring traditional folktales from Ukraine, Timor-Leste, Palau, Ecuador, and Haiti.

The book features illustrations by Kensuke Miyazaki, an artist known for creating murals around the world.

This picture book is based on stories collected by artist Kensuke Miyazaki during his visits to various countries through the 'Over the Wall World Mural Project.' Despite vast geographical distances, the folktales passed down in nations such as war-affected Ukraine share common human values—mutual aid, wisdom, courage, and reverence for nature.

With warm and beautifully retold narratives by Keiko Masaoka and powerful illustrations by Miyazaki, who has personally visited these regions and deeply understands their cultural contexts, this book offers readers of all ages a chance to experience diverse global cultures. The book concludes with an introduction to the 'Over the Wall World Mural Project' and a commentary by Dr. Toshio Ozawa, a leading expert on folktales. It is a picture book that inspires readers to learn about the world and reflect on human connections through storytelling.

The book includes Ukrainian tales 'The Mitten' and 'The Little Pea Boy,' Timor-Leste's 'The Crocodile Who Became an Island,' Ecuador's 'The Hummingbird's Single Drop,' and Haiti's 'The Magic Orange Tree.' A highlight is the vibrant artwork by Miyazaki, who incorporates authentic cultural elements from each country he has visited.

Author Profiles

Text: Keiko Masaoka

Born in 1941 in Hiroshima Prefecture. A picture book and children's story writer. Her major works include 'The Fox's Tanabata' (Sekaibunka), 'I'll Be Waiting for You' (Froebel-kan), and 'The Badger's Laundry Shop' (PHP Institute), among many others. She is also actively involved in storytelling events.

Illustrations: Kensuke Miyazaki

Born in 1978 in Saga City. After completing his master's degree at the Graduate School of Art Research, University of Tsukuba, he moved to the UK. Centering on the theme of 'Super Happy,' he creates art that instantly brings joy. He leads the global mural initiative 'Over the Wall World Mural Project,' with projects in Kenya (2015), Timor-Leste (2016), Ukraine (2017), and Ecuador (2018).

Book Overview

'Stories the Sun Has Seen: Folktales from Five Countries'

Release Date: July 2, 2026 (Thu)

Text: Keiko Masaoka

Illustrations: Kensuke Miyazaki ■ Price: 2,200 yen (tax included)

Format: B4 variant size, 32 pages

Publisher: Sekaibunka Publishing Co., Ltd.

https://books.sekaibunka.com/book/b10169615.html

https://amzn.asia/d/0fSEbYFS