Akiko Hayashi, illustrator who first brought Kiki the witch to life, dies at 81

The world of children's literature is mourning the loss of Akiko Hayashi, a highly respected Japanese author and illustrator whose work shaped the childhoods of millions. Hayashi died on July 1 in a Nagano prefecture hospital due to pneumonia, at the age of 81.

Born in Tokyo in 1945, Hayashi began her career after graduating from Yokohama National University. Her debut in 1973 with the picture book "Kamihihoki" (Paper Kite) marked the start of a journey that would establish her as a prominent figure in Japanese children's art. Her distinctive style, characterized by warmth and tenderness, and her skill in capturing the subtle emotions of children, earned her legendary status.

While internationally recognized for her visual interpretation of the young witch Kiki in Eiko Kadono's 1985 novel "Kiki's Delivery Service," Hayashi's influence extends far beyond this iconic role. Her illustrations for the book, created long before Hayao Miyazaki's 1989 Studio Ghibli film adaptation, were the first to introduce Kiki and her cat Jiji to readers. Hayashi's artwork defined the visual identity of the story, giving it its initial soul and appearance.

Beyond "Kiki's Delivery Service," Hayashi left an indelible mark with numerous other works. Her 1976 collaboration with Yoriko Tsutsui on "Mikin's First Errand" became a classic across Asia, depicting a five-year-old girl's first solo trip to the store. She also illustrated Kyoko Matsuoka's "There's a Hippopotamus in My Bathtub!" and authored and illustrated her own timeless stories, such as "Good Evening, Mr. Moon" and "Kon and Aki." Her books have sold over twenty million copies worldwide and have been translated into multiple languages, solidifying her legacy as one of Japan's most successful picture book creators.

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She was the warmest author who drew children's hearts.