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Rainbow Bridge
An Illustrated Novel
The tears of farewell mark the beginning of a miracle journey.
With the wish to see his mama again, Mamesuke takes his first step into the adventure of the Rainbow Bridge.
Main Characters
Smiling Mamesuke, Luke, who carries quiet uncertainty within & Misha, with a charmingly playful smile. — 3 hearts that weave the tale, quietly gathered on the cover.
Wild Beasts
In the background, wild beasts appear—silent trials standing in the heroes’ path, adding tension and strength to the unfolding story.
Rainbow
The “rainbow,” symbol of the Rainbow Bridge, is portrayed as a guiding light that leads toward hope.
Flower and Plants
In the world beyond the Rainbow Bridge, peace breathes softly among blossoms and leaves, offering comfort and serenity to the heart.
White Birds
"Welcome,” whisper the butterflies, as they dance upon the breeze. Their gentle motion carries an invitation to a new world.
Logo
Drawn with delicate, translucent lines, the logo holds a quiet tenderness—a symbol that stays close to the heart.
Rainbow Bridge World
About Art
In this piece, I imagined Mamesuke’s emotions in this new world—sadness, surprise, awe, and being deeply moved. Through the field of flowers, butterflies, and gentle light, I wanted to express both his wonder and the peace of a place where pets are free from pain. My hope is that viewers can feel that same comfort in their hearts.
Animals
Birds sing with delight, otters play freely, and Meerkat nap peacefully under the warm sunshine. Just watching them gently unravels the heart, offering a moment of quiet healing.
Ohagi Pesha
With a gentle smile and flowers blooming around them, Pesha embodies the kindness that fills this world.
Daifuku Pecha
Pecha’s lively bouncing captures their cheerful spirit and reflects the freedom and joy that define this world.
Flower
The blooming, soaring flowers express a release from pain and suffering—a visual embodiment of liberation.
Butterflies
In Japan, のれん at baths sparks a thrill before soaking—this one, bearing the Koguma kamon and name, deepens the theme.
Dango Bucha
Bucha’s solid, reassuring presence watches over Mamesuke with quiet care—an image that conveys the deep sense of safety this world offers.
Misha Speaks
About Art
In the midst of the murmuring crowd, Mamesuke’s eyes sparkled—Misha’s words set the story in motion.
Black Cat
Misha, an enchantingly graceful cat, quietly shares with Mamesuke the path to fulfilling the “one wish” everyone else has avoided. Her playful wink becomes the turning point that stirs fate.
Rainbow
The rainbow that always stretches across the world of the Rainbow Bridge—a gentle arc that connects worlds.
Other Characters
As Misha speaks, the companions stir, and the atmosphere shifts dramatically.
Wild Beast
About Art
In the spirit realm, wild souls wander—a world apart from the pets who cross the Rainbow Bridge.
Stray beasts
The souls of wild animals like lions. Even after leaving their physical forms, they do not cross the Rainbow Bridge, but instead roam the spirit realm.
Background
In hues of black, blue, and a hint of violet, the sharp glint in the stray beasts’ eyes stands out—emphasizing the stark contrast between this realm and the world of the Rainbow Bridge.
Fog
The mist adds a layer of mystery to the scene, enhancing the presence and aura of the stray beasts.
Character Design
A vibrant visual world woven by eleven uniquely charming dogs.
Message
Protect your heart—and the unwavering love you hold for your dogs and cats.
虹の橋 PROJECT
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Mugi Kinoshita
What is About?
虹の橋 (Rainbow Bridge) Project - A heartfelt initiative led by Fuyuki Shindō and others, dedicated to bringing joy and meaningful value to the lives shared between pets and people.
This project aims to support those who have experienced pet loss, or who feel anxious about the possibility of losing a beloved companion. By gently walking alongside them, we seek to transform sorrow into healing—and to build a bridge of happiness within society.
What is Pet Loss?
"Pet Loss Syndrome" refers to the emotional and physical distress caused by the separation from a companion animal—such as a dog or cat—that has been deeply integrated into one’s life.
Creative Team Behind the Book
Team Say
After receiving the character designs:
“I saw them!! Every single character is incredibly cute 😆😆😆
You’ve captured the charm of each breed and their personalities so well—I think it’s a perfect result 🤗 Absolutely wonderful!”
After receiving Colored book Illustration:
“Mugi-san, the world of the Rainbow Bridge you’ve drawn gently embraces deep sorrow and offers true comfort to the heart.
The moment color was added, I felt—genuinely—that there is a place where I can send off my beloved child with peace. It brought me to tears. Your depiction of good and evil is masterful. It truly feels like a ‘Japanese Disney’ world. I was so moved I want to make it my phone wallpaper.”
Fuyuki Shindō (Writer)