As the world this year observes the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII, and continues to weather numerous conflicts around the globe, minedition’s fall offerings include two September picture books that sound a note of hope for peace in our time.
The first is A Prayer for World Peace, written by anthropologist and U.N. Messenger of Peace Jane Goodall and illustrated by noted Iranian artist Feeroozeh Golmohammadi. The book issues a call for people of the world to rise above religious and cultural differences in the spirit of justice, respect, and generosity.
In Sadako’s Cranes, Judith Loske tells the true story of Sadako, a girl who suffered devastating illness as a result of the Hiroshima bombing in August 1945. Inspired by the Japanese legend that says if a person makes 1,000 origami cranes, his or her wish will be granted, Sadako bravely attempted to complete the task as a wish to save her life, but she died at the age of 12. Her story has sparked many peace efforts, and a statue of Sadako adorns a memorial in Hiroshima Peace Park.
Michael Neugebauer, minedition publisher, founder, and designer, notes that although these titles coincide with a momentous anniversary, “it actually doesn’t really matter when such books like Sadako’s Cranes or A Prayer for World Peace are published, as long as they are published.” Neugebauer emphasizes that his company’s mission encourages the development of such projects. “Since children have open minds and clear minds for justice, such information and impressions may stay in them and be remembered when they are grown up,” he says. “At minedition, we believe in the ‘making love, not war’ philosophy. I am proud to have such important opinion makers on our list. I do believe that such books contribute to making this world a better place for all of us.”
During BEA, A Prayer for World Peace and Sadako’s Cranes will both be on display at the booth (2841), where the publisher will be giving away paper cranes while supplies last.
This article appeared in the May 27, 2015 edition of PW BEA Show Daily.
