Run quickly, Ulalala: A Japanese racehorse that has lost many times but never gives up

Author: Shigefumi Shigeru
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: This book tells the story of a racehorse named Urara, from her birth, participation in races, her repeated failures and persistent running, to ultimately touching the hearts of the Japanese people. "Run, Urara" is compared to Japan's "The Old Man and the Sea" and is a symbol of hope and a testament to courage. It was one of the most captivating illustrated books in Japan in 2004. Why did a racehorse that lost over a hundred races in a row create such a sensation and win people's hearts? Why did a performance that was not considered outstanding spark widespread discussion among people of all ages? Urara, run! Run, Urara! Urara runs with resilience, Urara ignites flames of passion. Watch the story of a famous horse and the spirit behind it, as told by the acclaimed Naoki Prize-winning author. Even with only a one percent chance, never give up. Strive to the fullest extent to realize the value of life. The fate of the "little guy" resonates even more deeply. I was completely captivated by Urara. Keep running, Urara, and I won't give up either. – 3rd Grade Student, Male
I finished this book with tears in my eyes. I recommend it to children so they too can read it. – 37-year-old, Female
I read this book in one sitting. I'm now looking at the photos and reflecting on its content. – 52-year-old, Female
This book gave me courage and hope. One should never give up. – 52-year-old, Male
The protagonist of this book is a horse. The remarkable thing about this horse is that from the day it was born, it was destined to face failure as a matter of course. As a racehorse with purebred bloodlines, its physique was always too small. However, the same competitive spirit flowed in its veins, driving it to constantly challenge its taller companions on the track, where winning was its sole purpose. It never gave up, even with a one percent chance. Author Shigefumi Shigeru began to focus on this theme when the media was heavily reporting on Halu Urara. The author, in a seemingly subdued narrative, tells the story of this horse from its birth to its first race, and then through its of repeated failures, while also weaving in the stories of the colorful characters around it—stables owners, jockeys, track staff, commentators, and spectators. The author pours his emotions into the story but maintains perfect control, interspersing the narrative with insightful commentary. It's impossible to find a trace of overly sentimental expression, which perhaps is the depth of this book.