Fans of Studio Ghibli naturally have a love for fantastical storytelling that feels comforting and dreamlike, yet simultaneously nostalgic. That is, after all, part of what makes these films so popular. If you or someone you know is a fan of Hayao Miyazaki’s work, then this collection of official and fan-made books is sure to bring a sense of familiar, cozy delight. Plus, you don’t even need to be an avid reader to thoroughly enjoy most of the books in this collection! The books in this article range from short stories to cookbooks, art books, and even coloring books!
Studio Ghibli fans should also check out our articles showcasingStudio Ghibli home decorandanime-themed gaming accessoriesto find even more ways to add a little bit of magic to your home.
My Neighbor Totoro Picture Book
Studio Ghibli: 100 Collectible Postcards: Final Frames from the Feature Films
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Studio Ghibli: The Complete Works
This book is an essential item for any Ghibli fan, as it outlines the studio’s history and discusses its future. It includes full-color illustrations, exclusive interviews, and director commentaries that will be super interesting for both Ghibli aficionados and casual fans alike!
Sharing A House With the Never-Ending Man Book
If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about the behind-the-scenes at Studio Ghibli, then this account from Steve Alpert, who worked for Ghibli for many years, is perfect. Alpert paints an interesting picture of iconic Ghibli figures like director Hayao Miyazaki and producer Toshio Suzuki, and recounts his own experiences as the resident foreigner at the company and being immersed in a new language and culture.
The Ghibliotheque Anime Movie Guide
This book, written by the hosts of the Ghibliotheque podcast, Jake Cunningham and Michael Leader, takes a look at some of the best animated movies to come out of Japan. This is perfect for anyone who has an interest in other Japanese films outside of Ghibli, or is looking for a place to get started.
The Unofficial Studio Ghibli Cookbook
This fun cookbook is perfect for Studio Ghibli fans who want a new way to celebrate their favorite anime movies! Written by Jessica Yun, this book features 50 fan-created recipes making it an “unofficial” compendium of delectable dishes inspired by the best Ghibli movies!
Shuna’s Journey
If you’re a Miyazaki fan, you’ll definitely want to check outShuna’s Journey, a manga about a prince on a quest for a golden grain that could save his land. This is the first time the story has been published in English and is a must-read for anyone who loves Hayao Miyazaki’s work and wants to see more of the acclaimed director’s artistic and storytelling talent.
Howl’s Moving Castle: The Novel
Many of the Ghibli films are based on books, and there is perhaps none more famous thanHowl’s Moving Castleby Diana Wynne Jones. Relive the magic and read the original tale that inspired Howl and Sophie’s story in the movie!
Hayao Miyazaki Book
Hayao Miyazaki is probably the most famous of the Ghibli directors, helming such classics asSpirited Away,My Neighbor Totoro, andHowl’s Moving Castle, among a host of others. This book details his career and his detailed creative process, with concept art, storyboards, and much more included.
The Art of Princess Mononoke
If you’re interested in the art process of Ghibli movies, these coffee table art books are a great collector’s item to have. This one features paintings, character designs, and concept art fromPrincess Mononoke, and there are also art books for a lot of the other popular Ghibli films as well.
My Neighbor Totoro Manga
My Neighbor Totorois one of the most charming and iconic films to come out of Studio Ghibli, and this manga version of the story is perfect for fans of Satsuki, Mei, and their adventures with Totoro. It’s a great read for kids and adults alike who want to see the story represented in a different medium.
An Unofficial Guide To The World Of Studio Ghibli
Ghibli fans may be well aware of the Ghiblioteque podcast, delivered by superfans Michael Leader and Jake Cunningham. This is their unofficial guide to all the films they love, presented in 8 enthralling chapters. The book comes in hardcover and is 125 pages in length, so whether you’re a fan of the podcast or just the films themself, it is sure to be both educational and enjoyable, as you pour over the illustrations and factoids presented by two authorities who are passionate about the subject matter.
Studio Ghibli Cookbook
The beautifully animated food scenes in Studio Ghibli movies are always a standout, and this cookbook will help you recreate some of the most iconic Ghibli dishes in your own home! The recipes found within the pages include okayu fromPrincess Mononoke, bento fromMy Neighbor Totoro, and seafood salad fromWhen Marnie Was There.
Kiki’s Delivery Service Journal
For fans ofKiki’s Delivery Servicethat prefer to write their own stories (or just want a place to write down their thoughts), this journal is a perfect piece of Ghibli merch to own. Not only does the journal have gorgeous full-color artwork on the front and back covers, it also includes concept art and illustrations throughout its pages.
Kiki’s Delivery Service Novel
Whether you’ve seenKiki’s Delivery Serviceonce or a thousand times, it’s always worth checking out the original children’s book that inspired the whimsical film. Follow along with the young witch Kiki as she comes of age and finds a new town to move to for one year, as is the witch’s tradition. Little does she know she’ll change the town and learn things about herself along the way!
Ghibli Best Stories
This book compiles 13 different piano arrangements composed by Joe Hisaishi for the various Hayao Miyazaki films he worked on at Studio Ghibli. It is the only Ghibli score book approved by the composer himself and features music fromCastle in the Sky,My Neighbor Totoro,Spirited Away, and many more. It’s a perfect addition to the collection of the Ghibli fan who’s more musically inclined!
This picture book, based on the movieMy Neighbor Totoro, is perfect for the younger Ghibli fans in your life! This storybook features art taken directly from the film and retells the story ofTotoroin a written format, including scene-by-scene illustrations and dialogue straight from the movie.
You’ll need to buy two of these beautiful boxes of collectible postcards - one to keep and one to mail out to all your friends and loved ones. Or, maybe you need one extra so you’re able to frame all your favorite pics?This lovely box of collectible postcards from Studio Ghibli and Chronicle Books features the final frames from the feature films. They come in a keepsake box with a lifting ribbon, so you can easily take them out and look at them whenever you want.
More Ways to Add Studio Ghibli to Your Life
Filling your life with fantastical stories and implementing some of the recipes found in these Studio Ghibli-inspired cookbooks is a great way to introduce more Miyazaki vibes into your day-to-day life. In addition to decking out your home with Studio Ghibli merchandise, you should also aim to create a pleasant atmosphere. Here are some essential tips to enhance your living space, so you may feel like a character right out of a Studio Ghibli film.
The Best Overall Studio Ghibli Book
This official Studio Ghibli book features a comprehensive deep dive into the history of Studio Ghibli’s animation studio and its most prominent projects. Complete with high-quality, full color illustrations and photos, this book makes a great addition to any fan’s collection. If you or anyone you know is an avid Studio Ghibli aficionado who enjoys learning more about what was going on behind the scenes of their favorite films, then this book is for you.
Best Studio Ghibli Cookbook
If you are interested in expanding your cooking horizons by introducing over 50 Studio Ghibli-inspired Japanese recipes, then this book is perfect for you. This cookbook showcases delicious recipes inspired by the films, like Herring and Pumpkin Pot Pie from Kiki’s Delivery Service and Ham-topped Ramen from Ponyo. Available digitally or hardcover for just under $20, this cookbook stands as an excellent gift or addition to any fan’s kitchen.
Best Studio Ghibli Manga
Shuna’s Journey is an original manga written and illustrated by Hayao Miyazaki and has been translated into English by Alex Dudok de Wit. This story centers around a young prince on a journey to improve the lives of his people by retrieving a legendary golden grain. Complete with full watercolor illustrations and immersive storytelling, this manga would make an excellent gift to any Studio Ghibli enthusiast by providing a brand-new piece of media to enjoy.
