Kiki's Delivery Service (魔女の宅急便 / Kiki's Delivery Service #1)

Kiki's Delivery Service is the first book in the series by Eiko Kadono which inspired the classic animated movie from Studio Ghibli. Originally published in 1985, this English translation from Random House Children's was published 7th July 2020. It's 208 pages and available in hardcover and ebook format. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. 

This is such a heartwarming and well written book. It has a nostalgic vibe for me as well because, although I was older than the target audience at the time, I remember the Ghibli animated movie very fondly. It's really lovely to see it being brought out for a new generation of readers. The translation work is seamless; it reads very well and the scansion is well rendered and never feels choppy or confusing. 

The art is appealing and enhances the story very well. I loved the chapter heading art and section illustrations. They're different from, but reminiscent of, the 1989 Miyazaki film. 

Everything about this translation and reformat/re-release is high quality. I recommend it unreservedly. I hope a whole new generation of fans discover this gem. Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.