Short Summary
Moi Moi is a Japanese picture book designed especially for babies.
It uses simple shapes and the repeated sound “moi moi” to naturally attract a baby’s attention without telling a traditional story.
Why this book is special
This book is based on scientific research from the University of Tokyo Baby Lab, where researchers studied the eye movements of thousands of babies to discover shapes that truly capture their attention.
Many parents report that even crying babies calm down or focus quietly when looking at this book, showing its strong ability to hold a baby’s interest.
Because the book uses only the sound “moi moi,” adults can freely change their voice, speed, and rhythm, making reading time a playful communication experience.
The high-contrast colors and round, simple characters are easy for babies to see, even with still-developing vision.
Japanese Culture Point
In Japan, there is a strong culture of combining childcare with scientific research.
Books like Moi Moi reflect the Japanese approach of carefully observing babies and designing products based on real data, rather than adult assumptions.
This shows how seriously early childhood development is taken in Japanese parenting and education.
Book Information
Title: Moi Moi
Original Title: もいもい
Author: Kazuo Hiraki
Illustrator: Jun Ichihara
Recommended Age: 0–2
Country: Japan