On September 7th, picture book author Satoshin will hold a live storytelling event, "Let's Enjoy Picture Books with Satoshin in Hirosaki," at Santa House Hirosaki Park (Motodaikumachi, Hirosaki City).

In addition to his signature work "Unko!", Satoshin has written other picture books such as "We Are Not Pandas" and "Coughing and Shiritori." He also came up with the idea for "Hand Picture Book," a parent-child game in which the palm of the hand represents a picture book, and has been introducing the fun and importance of communication through picture books all over the country.

On the day, Satoshin will sing along to various music while reading picture books and fairy tales at a "storytelling live" event, as well as an exhibition and sale of his latest picture books, including "The Flapping Futon," and a signing session. There will also be a workshop on making a windmill using Neputa paintings by the art project team "HIROSAKI_AIR." There is no age limit for participants, and the capacity is 40 people (reservations required, first come first served).

Satoshin's event will also be held at Santa House Hirosaki Park in 2022. The facility is a senior citizen housing and day care center, but plans events that are open to non-users as well. Abo Hideki, the facility's director, was impressed by Satoshin's event and said, "Not only is it fun for children, but it's also thought-provoking and encouraging for adults, and is stimulating. You can also hear about the thoughts of popular picture book authors as they create their works. I hope many local people will come."

The event will be held from 10:00 to 12:00. The participation fee is 500 yen per person (free for elementary school students and younger). Applications can be made by phone (TEL 0172-88-7707 ) or through a special form.