Written by Takaaki Mano (Design Egg Inc.) To be published on February 17, 2026

• Paperback: 174 pages, B6 size (12.8 × 18.2 cm), ¥1,980 (tax included)

• Kindle Edition (eBook): ¥1,100 (tax included)

 

Artist Takaaki Mano’s long-awaited third essay collection—his first in three years. Art, the quiet moments of daily life, living with rescued cats, reflections on Japanese society, the world, and even the cosmos—

These thirty essays, written in a natural and unadorned voice, are imbued with a quiet prayer and a profound gaze. What does this extraordinary artist feel? How does he see the world? How has he lived his life? This precious volume offers a rare glimpse into those questions.

 

Each reading lights a gentle flame deep within the heart— Savor these luminous words, each one a gem.

 

 

Contents

• Introduction

• A Connection with "Tsurezuregusa"

• Even If I'm Not Useful to Others

• Ascension Is High-Level

• Our Family’s COVID Experience

• Am I a Rescue Cat Activist?

• Earth Management

• Artists and Eccentrics

• I Have Ideals, But...

• Savoring Abundance

• A Lifelong Embarrassment?

• Everyone Has a Role

• Isn’t That a Bit Too Much Harassment?

• Farewell to a Longtime Companion

• Fascinating Politics

• Is That Really Justice?

• A Fine Artist’s Outspoken Words

• A Wonderful Winter

• At Last, Little Tabi

• Art Without Ingenuity

• Staying Motivated

• The Enigmatic Swedish Painter

• Japan in Transition

• Basic Income—Now, of All Times?

• Politics Beyond the Point of Absurdity

• Life with a Conversational AI

• Retirement or Lifelong Creativity

• How About Watching Over a Little Longer?

• The Part-Time Artist

• Light Beyond the Shadows

• Withdrawal, Then Hope

• Afterword

 

How to Purchase the Book The book can be ordered at bookstores throughout Japan.

It is also available on Amazon and Rakuten Books.

The eBook edition will be available soon on Amazon Kindle Store.