Japan Loves Miss Potter

Posted on January 10, 2007

Renee Zellweger is currently starring in Miss Potter, which tells the life story of bestselling children's author Beatrix Potter. Everyone loves Beatrix Potter books - but did you know that the Japanese are simply mad for all things Potter?

The Times Online says, "Perhaps it should be no surprise that the country that reveres all things Hello Kitty should also have a soft spot for Beatrix Potter. Still, to anyone whose interest in Peter Rabbit, Mrs Tiggywinkle and Jemima Puddle-Duck ended with infants school, Japan's enduring fascination is an unusual one. Beatrix Potter isn't just big there: she is a national obsession. We may use her illustrations to decorate Wedgwood china, but they have them everywhere from ATM cash machines to business stationery and mayonnaise jars."

David Buckley, president of Copyrights Asia Ltd, the company that handles all Japanese copyrights for Beatrix Potter, tells the Times, "Peter Rabbit is seen as trustworthy, stable and unthreatening," he says. "There is a natural affinity between the Japanese and Beatrix Potter. Her books represent a wholesome Englishness that is highly prized."

Who knew that Peter Rabbit was such a hit in Japan? They have a great taste. It is a great movie and Renee is terrific in it. The absolutely charming Miss Potter is in theaters nationwide.

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