Viz has announced they will be publishing the memoirs of Hayao Miyazaki! The book “Starting Point: 1979 – 1996″ contains essays, notes, concept sketches, and interviews with Miyazaki and also some interviews conducted by him.

The book covers from early childhood and the first half of his career, including the makings of some of the movies we all know and love, as well as the launch of Studio Ghibli. There is also a foreword by John Lasseter, the Chief Creative Officer at Pixar and Walt Disney and close friend of Miyazaki’s. John has been responsible for overseeing the English language dubbing of Miyazaki’s films, as well as being executive producer for their American releases.

Vice President from Viz Media, Gonzalo Ferreyra had this to say about the books release:

“Hayao Miyazaki is known and loved around the world for his imaginative films that continue to delight children and adults,” says Gonzalo Ferreyra, Vice President, Sales & Marketing for VIZ Media. “STARTING POINT presents, in Miyazaki’s own words, his philosophies towards life, his work, the animation industry both in Japan and abroad, and his creative inspirations and motivations. He also offers lots of stories, many of them quite humorous, which show the extent of his complete dedication to animated film and the people with whom he works. We invite fans to enjoy this chronicle of the life of a man whose own dreams have come true.”

The estimated release date for “Starting Point: 1979 – 1996″ is August 4th and is expected to be $29.99 US and $34.99 Canada.

Additionally, those who are keeping an eye out for “Ponyo” might like to note that Viz are bringing out the “PONYO PICTURE BOOK” and “THE ART OF PONYO”, both due for release on August 4, 2009. And they will also be bringing Volumes 1 & 2 of “THE PONYO FILM COMIC” out as well, but they won’t be available until August 11th.

Australians wanting to see all of the above Miyazaki book releases can keep an eye on Madman Entertainment who have scheduled to release these titles (plus a few more Miyazaki books) on September 10th. Start saving your money now!