Summary
かくしたの だあれ is an interactive and visually striking picture book by 五味太郎.
Each spread invites children to search for everyday objects cleverly hidden within animals’ bodies.
With bold design, playful camouflage, and rhythmic language, the book transforms reading into an engaging visual game.
Why This Book Is Loved
Designed for the Joy of Finding
Parts of familiar animals are secretly replaced with everyday items—gloves, socks, toothbrushes.
The moment a child spots the hidden object brings a powerful sense of accomplishment and excitement.
Refined Design and Bold Color
Gomi Taro’s distinctive color palette and generous use of white space create a clean, modern layout.
Each page feels like a piece of graphic art, elevating the book beyond a simple seek-and-find activity.
Playful Camouflage and Surprise
A lion’s mane becomes upside-down rain boots.
An elephant’s trunk turns into a toothbrush.
The unexpected visual substitutions create humor and delight.
Rhythmic, Participatory Language
The repeated phrases “Kakushita no dare?” (“Who hid it?”) and “Mitsuketa!” (“Found it!”) create a satisfying rhythm.
Even toddlers who are just beginning to speak can join in.
Building Observation Skills Through Play
Children learn to notice similarities in shape and color while searching.
Even after the answers are known, the book remains enjoyable, encouraging repeated reading.
Cultural Notes
・Japanese picture books often encourage active participation, turning reading into a dialogue.
・The strong graphic style reflects Japan’s modern illustration tradition, influenced by design and visual minimalism.
・Everyday objects (toothbrushes, socks, boots) highlight how ordinary life becomes playful through imagination.
Book Information
Title (JP): かくしたの だあれ
Title (EN): Kakushita no Dare? / Who Hid It?
Author / Illustrator: Taro Gomi
Recommended Age: 1–3 years
First Published: 1977
Publisher: Bunka Shuppankyoku (Japan)