Japanese Picture Book Long-Seller Recommendation! Welcome to the World of Guri and Gura

Introduction

Guri and Gura is one of Japan’s most beloved picture books, cherished by children and adults alike for over half a century. With its gentle text and warm illustrations, it captivates young readers at first glance and continues to bring smiles to families from generation to generation. In this article, you’ll find detailed information about this classic picture book, including its publication date, recommended age range, and impressive sales figures. Whether you’re considering your very first copy of Guri and Gura or already have it on your shelf, we hope this gentle overview helps you rediscover its timeless charm. Let’s dive in!

1. What Is “Guri and Gura”?

Guri and Gura is a long-seller picture book published by Fukuinkan Shoten. The story was written by Rieko Nakagawa, with illustrations by Yuriko Yamawaki. The setting is a peaceful meadow in the forest, where two twin field mice named Guri and Gura live. One day, while exploring deep in the woods, the pair discover a wonderfully large, beautiful egg. They decide to use that egg to make a fluffy, delicious sponge cake together.

Guri and Gura find an egg so big and perfect that they can’t believe their eyes.
They discuss how best to cook it and use teamwork to bake a sponge cake.
When the cake is ready, its sweet aroma wafts throughout the forest, attracting other animals.
In the end, everyone gathers for a joyful tea party, sharing laughter and warm memories.

Throughout the pages, themes of cooperation, gratitude for nature’s gifts, and simple yet heartwarming happiness are gently woven together. Even on pages with very few words, the vivid illustrations bring the story to life—sparking children’s imaginations and encouraging them to explore every detail.

2. Publication Details

Guri and Gura first appeared on December 1, 1963 as part of Fukuinkan Shoten’s monthly magazine “Kodomo no Tomo.” It wasn’t until January 20, 1967 that the story was published in book form (hardcover). Since that first edition, it has seen numerous reprints and spin-off titles, continuing to enchant new generations of readers.

First Appearance (Magazine Edition): December 1, 1963 in “Kodomo no Tomo” (Fukuinkan Shoten)
Picture Book Hardcover Release: January 20, 1967 (Fukuinkan Shoten)
Publisher: Fukuinkan Shoten
Pages: 28 pages
Size: 20 cm × 27 cm

For its original publication era, this picture book is fairly large—allowing each page to showcase vibrant, full-color illustrations. Since its debut, it has been cherished for both read-aloud sessions at home and as a gift book for young children.

3. Recommended Age Range

Guri and Gura is generally suited for

ages 3 and up.

Even toddlers who cannot yet read can follow the story simply by looking at the illustrations.
When parents or caregivers perform a read-aloud, children around ages 2–3 will stay engaged from beginning to end.
Although the text is minimal, the illustrations fully convey the plot, sparking curiosity and creative thinking in young listeners.

As children grow and learn to read on their own—around early elementary school—the straightforward language and warm artwork still delight them, making Guri and Gura a book that can be enjoyed for many years.

4. The Appeal of the Story

There are several reasons why Guri and Gura’s simple yet enduring tale has continued to resonate for generations. Here are some key points:

Universal Sense of Wonder
- When Guri and Gura stumble upon a giant egg in the forest, readers instantly share in their “wow!” moment.
- The excitement of “How will they cook it? Will it really become a cake?” keeps readers turning the pages.
The Beauty of Working Together
- As twins, Guri and Gura show perfect harmony in their teamwork.
- They gather utensils, devise a plan, and bake the cake side by side—demonstrating how cooperation can produce something delightful.
- When other animals join in, the story expands to show how small acts of kindness and sharing can bring many friends together.
Sensory-Rich Illustrations
- The artwork almost lets you smell the fluffy, golden sponge cake as it bakes.
- Children, upon seeing the illustrations, often exclaim, “It smells so good!”—engaging their imagination and senses.
A Gentle, Heartwarming Conclusion
- At the end, all the forest animals gather around the cake and enjoy a happy tea party.
- After finishing the story, readers are left with a warm, satisfied feeling, eager to say, “Let’s read it again!”

Because these elements are perfectly balanced, reading Guri and Gura together can be just as soothing for the adult as it is exciting for the child.

5. How Many Copies Have Been Sold?

Guri and Gura truly lives up to being a “long-seller.” Here are some impressive figures:

Series Total Sales (as of 2018): Over 26.3 million copies
- This number includes all titles in the Guri and Gura series (including spin-offs).
Single Title “Guri and Gura” Sales (as of 2025):
- Now in its 250th printing, with over 5.71 million copies in circulation.
International Translations:
- Translated into English, French, Chinese, and more, it has won the hearts of children around the world.

Few books can boast these sales figures. Many preschools and kindergartens even use Guri and Gura in classroom settings, passing down beloved childhood memories from parents who once read it themselves to their own children.

6. When to Read Guri and Gura

This picture book fits many occasions:

First Read-Aloud Experience (Ages 0–3)
Use Guri and Gura to introduce the joy of exploring pictures and listening to stories.
Perfect Gift
Whether for a baby shower or a birthday, its universal appeal makes it a thoughtful present for any child.
Preschool and Kindergarten Classroom
Teachers can use it to demonstrate cooperation, sharing, and gratitude through a story that even the youngest children can follow.
A Cozy Break for Grown-Ups
Sometimes adults need a gentle reminder of simple happiness—reading Guri and Gura alongside a child can offer a moment of rest in busy days.

7. How to Enjoy Guri and Gura at Home

1. Deepen Parent-Child Conversation Through Read-Aloud

Start by spending a moment looking at each illustration together.
Say things like, “That egg is huge, isn’t it?” or “Can you imagine how sweet that cake must smell?” to encourage your child’s engagement.

2. Recreate the Cake with a Simple Recipe

Try making a “fluffy sponge cake” together. The sweet aroma filling your home will bring the story to life.
Tasting the cake after baking helps children connect the book’s story with real-world joy—making the experience memorable.

3. Share with Friends or Siblings

Like Guri and Gura, children can experience the joy of working together by setting up a “cake party” or drawing pictures of their own forest tea party.
Let them act out their favorite scenes to strengthen social skills, language, and creativity.

8. Conclusion

In this article, we introduced Guri and Gura as a Japanese picture book, long-seller, and recommended classic. Even after more than 50 years since its debut, it has sold over 26 million copies (series total) and remains an enduring favorite. With its simple yet profound message, warm themes, and beautiful illustrations, Guri and Gura is a picture book that every family should experience—whether you’re just starting your picture book collection or already treasure it on your shelf.

Reading Guri and Gura together creates a special “heartwarming moment” that breaks the rush of daily life. Gather your family, open the pages, and let the world of Guri and Gura’s fluffy cake fill your home with warmth and smiles.

Reference Summary

First Appearance (Magazine Edition): December 1, 1963 (“Kodomo no Tomo,” Fukuinkan Shoten)
Picture Book Hardcover Release: January 20, 1967 (Fukuinkan Shoten)
Publisher: Fukuinkan Shoten
Pages: 28
Size: 20 cm × 27 cm
Recommended Age: 3 years and up
Series Total Sales: Over 26.3 million (as of 2018)
Single Title Sales: Over 5.71 million (as of 2025)

Enjoy the world of Guri and Gura and share many happy moments with your family!