Toy maker People, which has continued observing children, to release 2 picture books for 1-year-olds' curiosity simultaneously in September 2026

People Co., Ltd. (Chuo-ku, Tokyo, President and Representative Director: Makoto Kiribuchi), a manufacturer of toys for infants and toddlers, will simultaneously release two picture books, "Uchi no 1-sai-chan Sussussu" and "Sekai no 1-sai-chan Minna Yatteru," in September 2026. These are the first picture books under the "1curiosity®" brand, which focuses on "toys that ignite the curiosity of 1-year-olds worldwide."

Two picture books to enjoy the curiosity of 1-year-olds

These two books were born from the desire to share the discovery that "1-year-olds are interesting," which we've encountered through over 40 years of "child observation" for toy making, with more people in a different form than toys.

"Uchi no 1-sai-chan Sussussu" (Conomatopoeia Picture Book)

Conomatopoeia are words that express a child's gestures and states, like sounds.

By adding special words like "Gabugabu muni!" and "Gon'gan'sui~," you can notice the fun in what the child is doing, and your everyday life can become a little more enjoyable.

[Planning and Original Concept] People Co., Ltd.

[Illustrations] Tomoko Shintani

[Specifications] Board book (rounded corners), 18.5 x 18.5 cm, 20 pages

"Sekai no 1-sai-chan Minna Yatteru"

This picture book was born from observations of 1-year-olds from around the world encountered during toy development, and interviews with their families. It is packed with the universal curiosity of 1-year-olds and the loving gaze of their families into a folding accordion-style book. When you open the pages, the curiosity of these 1-year-olds connects.

[Planning and Original Concept] People Co., Ltd.

[Illustrations] Ryo Honda

[Specifications] Accordion-style book (rounded cover corners), 18.5 x 18.5 cm, 12 pages

Scheduled Release: Early September 2026

Scheduled Pre-order Start: Early August 2026

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Tax Included)

・"Uchi no 1-sai-chan Sussussu" 1,760 yen

・"Sekai no 1-sai-chan Minna Yatteru" 2,420 yen

From toy making to picture books, the origin is "child observation"

People, which has continued to focus on what fascinates babies, such as Namelare Taro and Yaridai Houdai®, created 1curiosity from the discovery that "1-year-olds are interesting."

1curiosity is about carefully observing each of the gestures, feelings, and repetitive actions of 1-year-olds, and presenting their fun in a way that parents and children can enjoy together.

Both toys and picture books are born from the same observation and ideas.

1curiosity Brand Site

For detailed product information, please click here.

The trigger for making picture books was the "Curiosity about 1-Year-Olds' Curiosity Exhibition"

In October 2025, we held the "Curiosity about 1-Year-Olds' Curiosity Exhibition ~How to Make Toys That Children Really Play With~," where we exhibited materials from our long-term 1-year-old observation surveys and prototype toys. Approximately 570 people visited over 8 days, and we received a great deal of positive feedback.

It became clear that 1-year-olds' curiosity is full of discoveries and surprises not only for parents but for many people.

And that it can be enjoyed in various forms, not just through toys.

This realization led to the release of these picture books.

Click here for the event report.

Illustrator Introduction

Profile of Tomoko Shintani

Born in Tokyo. Graduated from Tama Art University, Faculty of Art and Design, Department of Design. After working as a designer for a company, she is now active as a freelance illustrator. She draws warm worlds that make viewers smile, focusing on animals and children. In addition to picture books, her approachable style, which can be enjoyed by both adults and children, is popular in illustrations for the Morinaga Milk Caramel package and a "spot the difference" series in the JAL Group in-flight magazine.

Profile of Ryo Honda

Illustrator. Lives in Tokyo. Graduated from Northumbria University (UK) with a degree in Graphic Design. Primarily engaged in book cover and interior illustrations, she also works on murals and children's workshops. She values illustrations that allow for enjoyment of stories and imagination.

People Co., Ltd. Company Overview

With the purpose of "creating moments when children's curiosity ignites!", we plan, develop, and sell products and services, including toys.

Company Name: People Co., Ltd.

Representative: Makoto Kiribuchi, Director and Representative Executive Officer

Established: February 1982 Toy Business Founded

Capital: 238.8 million yen

Number of Employees: 40

Head Office Location: VORT Higashinihonbashi, 2-15-5 Higashinihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

Company HP: https://www.people-kk.co.jp/

Listed on TOKYO PRO Market | Securities Code: 7865