Born in Tokyo, Kaya Doi graduated with a degree in design from Tokyo Zokei University. She got her start with picture books by attending the Atosaki Juku workshop, a Tokyo bookshop specializing in picture books. Since then, she has produced numerous picture books featuring her softly styled color-pencil drawings. She now lives in Chiba Prefecture and maintains a strong interest in environmental and animal welfare issues. Since the earthquake of March 2011, she has been active in recovery and shelter efforts for abandoned pets. David Boyd is assistant professor of Japanese at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. His translations have appeared in Monkey Business International, Granta, and Words Without Borders, among other publications. Asa Yoneda has translated books by Yukiko Motoya, Rin Usami, and Banana Yoshimoto, among others. Asa's translation of Under the Eye of the Big Bird (Hiromi Kawakami) was shortlisted for the 2025 International Booker Prize.

"Pencil-like linework, minimal but evocative details, and spot colors [lend] warmth and intimacy as the youth, and the relationship, mature... It's a clear-eyed take on adjustment and a reassuring model that honors the challenges and rewards of welcoming a new family member with open paws."

-- "Publishers Weekly"

"A patient kitty adjusts to an infant's arrival... Similar to the illustrations in Doi's beloved Chirri & Chirra series, the minimalist spot art and clean design create a pared-down aesthetic that suits the story's graceful text, translated from Japanese... Well-paced page turns warmly capture the bloom of affection between the titular characters. A simple and sweet sibling tale."

-- "Kirkus Reviews"

Publisher: Enchanted Lion

Pub date: 2026-05-12

Length: 44 pages