Cover of "The Gift of Everything" A Special Picture Book Where the Baton is Passed from Shuntaro Tanikawa to Haruki Murakami "The Gift of Everything" (Original Title: The Gift of Everything) is the latest picture book by Patrick McDonnell, the creator of the globally acclaimed comic strip "MUTTS," which has been serialized in over 700 newspapers in 20 countries and celebrates its 32nd anniversary this year. It is the sequel to "Nani mo Nai" (Nothing at All), which was also a hit in Japan. The previous work was translated by Shuntaro Tanikawa, a leading Japanese poet. However, as Mr. Tanikawa sadly passed away, Mr. Haruki Murakami has taken over the translation as a "pinch hitter," so to speak, succeeding Mr. Tanikawa. Mr. Murakami himself was a devoted reader of the "MUTTS" comic strip in newspapers when he lived in the United States, and he holds deep affection for it. This is a truly special book, born from the baton pass between two giants representing the Japanese literary world. Click here for book information and to reserve your purchase. Comments from Haruki Murakami and Patrick McDonnell Mr. Murakami has provided a comment on his feelings about inheriting the translation from Mr. Tanikawa. The illustrations are drawn with a unique, warm touch, overflowing with natural affection for all living things, and bring a sense of comfort to the viewer. I also always enjoyed this comic strip in the newspaper when I lived in America. In addition to his comic strip, McDonnell has written and published several picture books featuring Mooch and Earl as protagonists, and the "Gift" series is one of them. The first book, "Nani mo Nai," was published with Shuntaro Tanikawa's wonderful translation, but sadly, Mr. Tanikawa has passed away, so I have taken on the translation of this book as a pinch hitter, so to speak – though it is a daunting task. (From the afterword of "The Gift of Everything") And, Mr. McDonnell sent words of gratitude to Mr. Murakami from America. "The Gif