The great Isao Takahata, without whom the Hayao Miyazaki we know would not exist, was and remains an influential figure in Japanese animation. Finally, a book in English explores his work and gives a clear picture of how and why he is so highly regarded by directors and animators. Editors Rayna Denison, David Desser and Lindsay Coleman gathered a group of scholars and academics who write as clearly and as well as they think, to put together a book that is both rigorous and readable and will be an essential tool for anyone seeking a better understanding of Japanese animation.
I’m delighted to be included in this lineup. Fans who attend my talks have heard me sing Takahata’s praises. He was widely read across many art forms and cultures – Miyazaki once said his hobbies were “music and studying”. He was also a passionate logician who lived his socialist values, a fascinating, phenomenally exacting director who gives equal weight to story, art and audience.
This book from the University of Hawai’i Press is currently only available in hardback at the usual high academic price of £56. If the publisher gets enough demand, a paperback and ebook at more accessible price points might follow. Meanwhile you can buy it online in all the usual places, or ask your local public or college library to buy it – all the information you need is here.