Description ★ Latest work by the artist behind the world-famous Rilakkuma character ★ Winner of the 12th LIBRO Picture Book Award ★ Winner of the 14th MOE Picture Book Award A place where both special days and ordinary days become happy — welcome to Mumu's Magic Cake Shop. What day of the year do children look forward to most? For many kids, it's their birthday — a day filled with presents, delicious food, cake, and celebration. But here's Mimi the cat, who doesn't know when her birthday is. On top of that, today is her very first day at a new workplace, making her heart race even more. For Mimi, the sweet smell of freshly baked bread and the warm smiles of the customers bring great comfort. Then Mumu welcomes her warmly and promises to make her a special birthday cake. In that moment, Mimi's nervous, pounding heart turns into one fluttering with excitement. A kind heart and a warm smile are all it takes to turn an ordinary day into something happy and special. Twelve Months, Twelve Imaginative Birthday Cakes More special than strawberry shortcake or chocolate cake! In 'Mumu's Magic Cake Shop,' there's a unique birthday cake for every month of the year. July brings a sparkling cake topped with star-shaped pieces, August features a cake capturing the deep blue of sky and sea, and September offers a cake piled high with seasonal fruits. Through Aki Kondo's soft yet vivid colors, each cake beautifully captures the feeling of its season, coming to life right before your eyes. What kind of cake matches the month of your birthday? What shape would you want your own cake from Mumu to be? What might December's cake taste like? This adorable picture book invites readers to enjoy delightful flights of imagination. The Latest Work from the Winner of the 12th LIBRO Picture Book Award and the 14th MOE Picture Book Award ※ Praise from Japanese Bookstore Buyers ※ - True to form for an artist known for lovable characters, this new character is just as wonderful. - The twelve monthly birthday cakes are so adorable, and the warm story brings an instant smile. - A picture book that sparks wonderful imagination in its readers. - A book that reminds us of something easy to forget — that while birthdays are special to everyone, every other day can be special too. Aki Kondo, celebrated worldwide for creating the beloved character Rilakkuma, has expanded into picture books, earning both the 12th LIBRO Picture Book Award and the 14th MOE Picture Book Award for 'Today's Dream Candy Shop.' The MOE Picture Book Award is especially meaningful, as it is selected by 3,000 children's book buyers from bookstores across Japan, who choose just ten picture books each year — a true mark of recognition from the bookselling community. Aki Kondo's work is known for its adorable, warmly colored characters and enchanting storylines. This new book is no exception, weaving a charming story through the characters Mumu and Mimi and their magical cake shop. Don't miss this latest work from an artist celebrated for both her character design and her storytelling craft.