Japanese Americans

Realistic fiction

Non-fiction

Traditional

Biography

Historical fiction

Poetry

Fantasy

CLICK ON THE BOOK’S TITLE TO LINK TO amazon.com TO PURCHASE YOUR FAVORITE BOOKS.

NOTE: RECENTLY ADDED TITLES APPEAR IN RED.

NOTE: TITLES ADDED WINTER 2008/2009 APPEAR IN BLUE.

Realistic Fiction:

Buck, P.S. (1986). The big wave. New York: HarperTrophy. (4-6)

His family and village swept away, Jiya learns to live with the ever-present dangers from the sea and volcano. (card catalog)

Bunting, E. (1998). So far from the sea. Illustrated by C. K. Soentpiet. New York: Clarion Books. (K-3)

Laura Iwasaki’s father was interned along with thousands of other American citizens of Japanese heritage during World War II. When her grandfather died he was buried in the internment camp and now that the family is moving this will probably be their last visit to Grandfather’s grave. (amazon.com)

Friedman, I. R. (1987). How my parents learned to eat. Illustrated by A. Say. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (K-3)

An American sailor courts a Japanese girl and each tries, in secret, to learn the other’s way of eating. (card catalog)

Johnston, T. (1996). Fishing Sunday. Illustrated by B. Root. New York: William Morrow. (K-3)

A young boy, originally embarrassed by the traditions of his Japanese grandfather, comes to an understanding one day as he observes him during a fishing trip and notes that the old man and his ways are not silly at all but are actually rather magical. (amazon.com)

Kadohata, C. (2004). Kira-kira. Atheneum. (5-8)

In Cynthia Kadohata’s lively, lovely, funny and sad novel -- winner of the 2005 Newbery Medal -- the Japanese-American Takeshima family moves from Iowa to Georgia in the 1950s when Katie, the narrator, is just in kindergarten. Though her parents endure grueling conditions and impossible hours in the non-unionized poultry plant and hatchery where they work, they somehow manage to create a loving, stable home for their three children: Lynn, Katie, and Sammy. Katie’s trust in, and admiration for, her older sister Lynn never falters, even when her sisterly advice doesn’t seem to make sense. Lynn teaches her about everything from how the sky, the ocean, and people’s eyes are special to the injustice of racial prejudice. The two girls dream of buying a house for the family someday and even save $100 in candy money: "Our other favorite book was Silas Marner. We were quite capitalistic and liked the idea of Silas keeping all that gold underneath the floorboards.” When Lynn develops lymphoma, it’s heartbreaking, but through the course of her worsening illness, Katie does her best to remember Lynn’s "kira-kira” (glittery, shining) outlook on life. Small moments shine the brightest in this poignant story; told beautifully and lyrically in Katie’s fresh, honest voice. (amazon.com)

Kroll, V. L. (1996). A carp for Kimiko. Illustrated by K. Roundtree. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge. (K-3)

Although the tradition is to present carp kites only to boys on Children’s Day, Kimiko’s parents find a way to make the day special for her. (card catalog)

Nomura, T. (1995). Grandpa’s town. New York: Kane/Miller Book Publishers. (K-3)

A young Japanese boy, worried that his grandfather is lonely, accompanies him to the public bath. (card catalog)

Sakai, K. (1995). Sachiko means happiness. Illustrated by T. Arai. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press. (K-3)

A simply told, understated story of young Sachiko’s acceptance of her grandmother’s Alzheimer’s disease is illustrated in warm, sunset tones, with insets featuring traditional Japanese motifs. Touching and unsentimental, the book is a boon for those looking for contemporary images of Asian-American children. (Horn Book, 1991)

Say, A. (1997). Allison. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (K-3)

When Allison tries on the red kimono her grandmother has sent her, she is suddenly aware that she resembles her favorite doll more than she does her mother and father. When her parents explain that she is adopted, Allison’s doll becomes her only solace until she finds a stray cat in the garden and learns the true meaning of adoption and parental love. (amazon.com)

Say, A. (1996). Emma’s rug. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. (K-3)

Emma, who is gifted with immense artistic talent and whose favorite possession is a shaggy old rug, faces an unexpected challenge when her mother puts the rug in the washer, in a story of the inspirations, both simple and profound, that combine to make up the creative visual mind. (amazon.com)

Say, A. (1992). The lost lake. New York: Sandpiper. (K-3)

A young boy and his father become closer friends during a camping trip in the mountains. (card catalog)

Say, A. (1991). Tree of cranes. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (2-4)

A Japanese boy learns of Christmas when his mother decorates a pine tree with paper cranes. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1993). A jar of dreams. Aladdin. (4-6)

A young girl grows up in a closely-knit Japanese American family in California during the 1930’s, a time of great prejudice. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1985). The happiest ending. New York: Margaret McElderry. (5-6)

When twelve-year-old Rinko learns that a neighbor’s daughter is coming from Japan to marry a stranger twice her age, she sets out to change this arrangement and gains new insights into love and adult problems. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1993). The best bad thing. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (4-6)

At first dismayed at having to spend the last month of the summer vacation helping out in the household of recently widowed Mrs. Hata, Rinko discovers there are pleasant surprises for her, but then bad things start to happen. (card catalog)

Yashima, T. (1976). Crow boy. New York: Viking Press. (K-3)

No synopsis available.

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NON-FICTION:

Allan-Meyer, K. (1995). I have a new friend. Photographs by M. Spinelli. New York: Barron’s Educational Series. (K-3)

Saki is a little Japanese girl whose best friend is Lisa. Lisa learns about Japanese customs, Saki learns about American ways, and language is no barrier to their friendship. Spinelli’s candid black-and-white photos transform the book into a kind of photo album. (amazon.com)

Brenner, B. & Takaya, J. (1999). Chibi: A true story from Japan. Illustrated by J. Otani. New York: Clarion. (K-3)

Based on actual events, this dramatic story follows a mother duck and her ten babies as they move from one location in Tokyo to another and survive a series of disrupting storms. This tale, reminiscent of Robert McCloskey’s 1941 classic, is told in a crisp, straightforward style and illustrated with uncluttered, realistic watercolor and ink artwork that captures a sense of traditional Japanese painting. (Horn Book, 1996)

Brown, T. (1995). Konnichiwa! I am a Japanese-American girl. Photographs by K. Arai. New York: Henry Holt & Company. (2-4)

Presents the activities of Lauren Kamiya and her family as they prepare for and participate in the Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco, an event that combines elements of both Japanese and American cultures. (amazon.com)

Chin, S. A. (1995). When justice failed: The Fred Korematsu story. Illustrated by D. Tamura. Austin, TX: Raintree/Steck-Vaughn. (4-6)

When the US government orders Japanese American citizens to report to relocation camps, Fred Korematsu files a lawsuit, and it goes all the way to the supreme court. (Asia for Kids 2000 – 2001 Educational Catalog, p. 30)

Doran, C. (1995). The Japanese. New York: Thomson Learning. (4-6)

Color photographs of original artifacts, including tapestries, mosaics, armor, architecture, and maps, among other items, reinforce a succinct historical perspective of two great warrior civilizations. Societal structure, religious practices, transportation, and the arts during the medieval Norman period contrast with a more sophisticated seventeenth-century Japanese culture. (Horn Book, 1995)

Fremon, D. K. (1996). Japanese-American internment in American history. Springfield, NJ: Enslow. (5-6)

Includes personal accounts to describe the period in American history when Japanese Americans were detained in internment camps; also discusses the issues and controversy surrounding the decision. (card catalog)

Galvin, I. F. (1996). Japan: A modern land with ancient roots. New York: Benchmark Books. (4-6)

Discusses the history, geography, daily life, culture, and customs of the island nation of Japan. (card catalog)

Hamanaka, S. (1995). The journey: Japanese Americans, racism, and renewal. New York: Orchard Books. (4-6)

Text and photographed details of a mural depict the history of the Japanese people in America. (card catalog)

Haskins, J. (1988). Count your way through Japan. Illustrated by M. Skoro. Minneapolis, MN: Carolrhoda Books. (K-3)

Presents the numbers one through ten in Japanese, using each number to introduce concepts about Japan and its culture. (card catalog)

Heinrich, A. (1998). Japan: Enchantment of the world series. New York: Children’s Press. (5-6)

Describes the history and culture of the island nation of Japan. (card catalog)

Hoobler, D. & Hoobler, T. (1996). The Japanese American family album. New York: Oxford University Press. (4-6)

Introduction by George Takei. Six chapters illustrated with black-and-white photographs cover the immigration experience, from leaving the Old Country to becoming part of America. Background information opens each chapter; following sections feature selections from original documents. The varied voices recounting their own stories offer a personalized view of American history. A chronology is included. (Horn Book, 1996)

Kalman, B. (2000). Japan: The land. New York: Crabtree. (4-6)

This beautifully designed book covers every aspect of Japan - its geography, natural phenomena, resources, agriculture and history. (amazon.com)

Kalman, B. (2000). Japan: The people. New York: Crabtree. (4-6)

This distinctive blend of traditional and modern traits in the daily lives of the Japanese are revealed as they are seen at home, work, school, and play. (amazon.com)

Kitano, H. (1995). The Japanese Americans (Immigrant experience). New York: Chelsea House Publishers. (4-6)

After first arriving in the U.S. in 1890, the Japanese overcame the barriers of prejudice through education and perseverance, revealing the immense talents of their people. Their achievements are those of a people who have fought the odds and triumphed. (amazon.com)

Knorr, R. (1995). If I lived in Japan. Illustrated by J. Knorr. Marietta, GA: Longstreet Press. (1-4)

Young readers are invited to join in the daily activities of their peers in Japan – their schooling, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, etc. –while learning some basic vocabulary in Japanese. Playful illustrations and rhyming verse. (Asia for Kids 2000-2001 Educational Catalog, p. 26)

Lee, L. (1996). Japanese Americans. New York: Benchmark Books. (5-6)

Provides a history of Japanese immigration to the United States and discuses Japanese customs and contributions to American culture. (card catalog)

Littlefield, H. (1997). Colors of Japan. Illustrated by H. Byers. Minneapolis, MN: Carolrhoda Press. (K-3)

Ten colors are used to introduce readers to Japan. Each double-page spread features one color and includes the Japanese word for the color, along with the pronunciation. The brief text contains basic information about history, daily life, traditions, population, schools, and geography. Watercolors depict both historical and contemporary scenes, and a map is included. (Horn Book, 1998)

MacMillan, D. M. (1997). Japanese Children’s Day and the Obon Festival. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow. (K-3)

Describes the history, significance, and traditions of Japanese Children’s Day and the Obon Festival, and the ways they are celebrated in Japan and the United States. (card catalog)

McKay, S. (1997). Japan (Festivals of the world). Milwaukee, WI: Gareth Stevens. (4-6)

Describes how the culture of Japan is reflected in its festivals, including the Gion Festival, the Fire Festivals, and the Sapporo Snow Festival. (card catalog)

Say, A. (2004). Music for Alice. Lorraine/Houghton. (4-6)

As a girl, Alice loved to dance, but the rhythms of her life offered little opportunity for a foxtrot, let alone a waltz. World War II erupted soon after she was married. Alice and her husband, along with many other Japanese Americans, were forced to leave their homes and report to assembly centers around the country. Undaunted, Alice and her husband learned to make the most of every circumstance, from their stall in the old stockyard in Portland to the decrepit farm in the Oregon desert, with its field of stones. Like a pair of skilled dancers, they sidestepped adversity to land gracefully amid golden opportunity. Together they turned a barren wasteland into a field of endless flowers. Such achievements did not come without effort and sacrifice, though, and Alice often thought her dancing days were long behind her. But as her story testifies, life is full of changes . . . In this striking book, Allen Say introduces readers to the remarkable story of the life of a woman whose perseverance and resilience serve as an inspirational reminder that dreams can be fulfilled, even when least expected. (amazon.com)

Stanley, J. (1996). I am an American: A true story of the Japanese internment. New York: Crown. (4-6)

With stunning intensity, Stanley examines the plight of one group of American citizens during World War II. He describes in depth the events leading up to the authorized evacuation and imprisonment of Japanese Americans living on the West Coast. A sense of immediacy is provided through Stanley’s interpretation of events as they affected one particular young man, Shiro Nomura, and his family and close friends. Illustrated with black-and-white photographs. (Horn Book, 1995)

Stefoff, R. (1998). Japan. Philadelphia, PA: Chelsea House. (4-6)

An overview of the history, geography, economy, government, people, and culture of Japan. (card catalog)

Takabayashi, M. (2001). I live in Tokyo: A Japanese calendar. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (K-3)

Colorfully detailed illustrations will draw readers to this lively introduction to Japan. Seven-year-old narrator Mimiko takes readers on a month-by-month tour of contemporary Tokyo, briefly describing one or two festivals, customs, or facets of life each month. The narrative remains consistently childlike throughout: kimonos make Mimiko "feel like a princess,” but they also itch, and while her grandmother finds the tea ceremony relaxing, Mimiko notes that it’s long and boring and "my feet fall asleep.” The book focuses on the stuff of daily life-a kid’s daily life, including information such as Mimiko’s "Top Ten Favorite Meals” and the fact that on Valentine’s Day in Japan it’s girls who give chocolate to boys. The child-friendly focus doesn’t prevent the book from accurately reflecting the way in which the ultra-modern and the ancient, the high-tech and the low-tech, comfortably co-exist in Japan: one month finds the youngster doing calligraphy ("Shodo makes me feel calm”), while another month she travels to her grandparents’ house via "one of the fastest trains in the world.” As with many things Japanese, this book is a model of efficiency and elegance, cramming numerous details into a small space in a compact and attractive manner. (Horn Book, 2001)

Tunnel, M. & Chilcoat, G. (1996). The children of Topaz: The story of a Japanese American internment camp based on a classroom diary. New York: Holiday House. (4-6)

The diary of a third grade class of Japanese American children being held with their families in an interment camp in Topaz, Utah, during World War II. (card catalog)

Turner, P. S. (2004). Hachiko: The true story of a loyal dog. Illustrated by Y. Nascimbene. Houghton. (1-4)

Imagine walking to the same place every day, to meet your best friend. Imagine watching hundreds of people pass by every morning and every afternoon. Imagine waiting, and waiting, and waiting. For ten years. This is what Hachiko did. Hachiko was a real dog who lived in Tokyo, a dog who faithfully waited for his owner at the Shibuya train station long after his owner could not come to meet him. He became famous for his loyalty and was adored by scores of people who passed through the station every day. This is Hachiko’s story through the eyes of Kentaro, a young boy whose life is changed forever by his friendship with this very special dog. Simply told, and illustrated with Yan Nascimbene’s lush watercolors, the legend of Hachiko will touch your heart and inspire you as it has inspired thousands all over the world. (amazon.com)

Welch, C. A. (2000). Children of the relocation camps. Minneapolis, MN: Carolrhoda Books. (4-6)

Explores the experiences of Japanese American children who were moved with their families to relocation centers during World War II, looking at school, meals, sports, and other aspects of camp life. (Borders.com)

Wells, R. (1992). A to ZEn: A book of Japanese culture. Illustrated by Yoshi. New York: Simon & Schuster. (K-3)

An illustrated alphabet book introduces children to Japan, identifying the key influences, ancient and modern, that are at the core of Japanese culture today. (amazon.com)

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Traditional:

Baker, K. (1997). The magic fan. New York: Voyager Picture Books. (K-3)

Despite the laughter of his fellow villagers, Yoshi uses his building skills to make a boat to catch the moon, a kite to reach the clouds, and a bridge that mimics the rainbow. (amazon.com)

Bodkin, O. (2001). The crane wife. Illustrated by G. Spirin. New York: Harcourt. (1-4)

A retelling of the traditional Japanese tale about a poor sail maker who gains a beautiful but mysterious wife skilled at weaving magical sails. (amazon.com)

Coatsworth, E. (1990). The cat who went to heaven. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (4-6)

A little cat comes to the home of a poor Japanese artist and, through humility and devotion, brings him good fortune. (card catalog)

French, F. (2001). Little Inchkin: A tale of old Japan. New York: Frances Lincoln Limited. (K-3)

A unique young man named Inchkin--so named because he is only several inches tall--finds himself face-to-face with two fiery demons, with only his skill and bravery to defend himself. From decorative edges that make the adventure unfold like scenes from a play to the characters' stark white faces, French's full-color paintings capture the style of 18th-century Japanese prints. (amazon.com)

Johnston, T. (1990). Badger and the magic fan: A Japanese folktale. Illustrated by T. DePaola. New York: Putnam. (K-2)

In this retelling of a Japanese folk tale, a wicked badger steals a magic fan that makes noses grow and shrink. He uses it to trick a rich man’s beautiful daughter into marrying him but is foiled in the end by mischievous goblin children. DePaola’s characteristic art aptly complements the simple humor of the story. (Horn Book, 1990)

Kajikawa, K. (2000). Yoshi’s feast. Illustrated by Y. Heo. New York: Dorling Kindersley. (K-3)

Text, illustrations, and the book’s design are all marvelous here. Heo’s dazzling collages of painting, pencil, and handmade papers bring out the outrageous action and humor in Yoshi and Sabu’s conflict, extending the lively dialogue and rich text. (Booklist)

Kimmel, E. A. (2004). Three Samurai cats: A story from Japan. Illustrated by M. Gerstein. Holiday. (K-3)

An adaptation of a Japanese folktale in which a feudal lord seeks a samurai cat to rid his castle of a savage rat, but soon discovers that violence is not always the best way to accomplish things. (card catalog)

Kudler, D. (1997). The seven gods of luck. Illustrated by L. Finch. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (K-3)

In this story adapted from a Japanese folktale, two penniless young siblings are generously rewarded when they thoughtfully brush off the piles of snow covering the statues of the seven gods of luck. A brief note describes the Japanese New Year celebration, and the wintry setting is effectively realized in detailed watercolors that match the light tone of the story. (Horn Book, 1998)

Lachenmeyer, N. (2008). The origami master. Illustrated by A. Sogabe. Albert Whitman. (2-4)

Shima the Origami Master lives on a mountain in Japan. He isn’t lonely, for his beautiful origami animals keep him company. One morning Shima finds a marvelous new paper elephant on his desk. Where could it have come from? The next morning, a splendid dragon is in its place. It looks real enough to fly away. That night, Shima stays awake to find out who could make such wonderful creatures. But when he discovers who the mysterious artist is, he learns a surprising lesson about friendship. Included are instructions on how to make the origami flapping bird design.Aki Sogabe’s paper-cut art in the Japanese tradition richly complements Nathaniel Lachenmeyer’s lovely story. (amazon.com)

Levine, A. A. (1994). The boy who drew cats: A Japanese folktale. Illustrated by F/ Clement. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers. (K-3)

In an intriguing book, Levine retells the story of a frail, artistic boy whose drawings of cats come to life in a temple one night, vanquishing the terrible Goblin Rat. The unembellished, smooth narrative nicely complements Clément’s elegant acrylics. A source note is included, as well as a chart giving the pronunciation and meanings of the Japanese characters that appear at the top of each page of text. (Horn Book, 1994)

Long, J. F. (1996). The bee and the dream: A Japanese tale. Illustrated by K. Ono. New York: Dutton Books. (K-3)

As he watches his friend Tasuke sleeping and dreaming of buried treasure, Shin sees a bee fly from Tasuke’s nose. Convinced by this odd sign that Tasuke’s dream is true, Shin investigates, and though unsuccessful at first, he soon becomes the owner of the treasure. The illustrations, created by a Japanese artist contribute considerably to the atmosphere of the book. (Horn Book, 1996)

Melmed, L. K. (1997). Little Oh. Illustrated by L. Lamarche. New York: Lothrop, Lee & Shepard. (K-3)

Illustrated with exquisite paintings, this original fairy tale about an origami girl who comes to life is a tender and exciting adventure. From her wild river ride aboard a teacup boat to her escape from an angry dog to her flight home on the neck of a crane to her transformation into a real little girl, Little Oh is sure to capture readers’ hearts. (amazon.com)

Mosel. A. (1993). The funny little woman. New York: E. P. Dutton. (4-6)

While chasing a dumpling, a little lady is captured by wicked creatures from whom she escapes with the means of becoming the richest woman in Japan. (card catalog)

Nishimoto, K. (1999). Japanese Fairy Tales ( Classic Japanese fairy tales, Vol. I). Illustrated by Y. Imoto. Heian International Publishing Company. (K-3)

These collections of stories include some of Japan’s most cherished tales. These timeless stories are more than just entertaining. They address some of life’s enduring themes about goodness and happiness. As they read or listen to each tale, children will learn about human virtue and enjoy the pleasure and insight that flow from traditional wisdom. Colorfully cute illustrations. (Asia for Kids 2000-2001 Educational Catalog, p. 25)

Palazzo-Craig, J. (1996). The magic peach: A story from Japan. Illustrated by M. Nagano. New York: Troll. (K-3)

An extraordinary Japanese boy sets out to destroy the ogres who have terrorized his village for years. (amazon.com)

Paterson, K. (1995). The tale of the Mandarin ducks. Illustrated by L. & D. Dillon. New York: Puffin. (K-3)

A pair of Mandarin ducks, separated by a cruel lord who wishes to possess the drake for his beauty, reward a compassionate couple who risk their lives to reunite the ducks. (card catalog)

Sakade, F. (1958). Peach Boy and other Japanese children’s favorite stories. Illustrated by Y. Kurosaki. Tokyo: Charles E. Tuttle. (K-3)

Stories that delight children of one land are sure to delight children everywhere. In this charming collection of stories, twenty of Japan’s best-loved children’s stories are told. Here are the playful goblins with long noses; the magic teakettle with badger feet & badger tail; Little One-Inch & his needle swords; & many other beloved characters. (Borders.com)

San Souci, R. D.(1997). The samurai’s daughter: A Japanese legend. Illustrated by S. T. Johnson. New York: Puffin. (4-6)

A Japanese legend about the brave daughter of a samurai warrior and her journey to be reunited with her exiled father. (card catalog)

San Souci, R. D. (1993). The snow wife. Illustrated by S. T. Johnson. New York: Dial Books. (K-3)

When a Japanese woodcutter breaks his promise and describes his encounter with a terrifying snow woman, he loses his wife and must make a dangerous journey to win her back. (card catalog)

Say, A. (1974). Once under the cherry blossom tree: An old Japanese tale. New York: Harpercollins. (1-4)

No synopsis available.

Schroeder, A. (1997). Lily and the wooden bowl. Illustrated by Y. Ito. New York: Picture Yearling. (K-3)

A young girl who wears a wooden bowl over her face to hide her beauty overcomes a variety of trials and finally finds love, riches, and happiness. (card catalog)

Snyder, D. (1993). The boy of the three year nap. Illustrated by A. Say. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (4-6)

A poor Japanese woman maneuvers events to change the lazy habits of her son. (card catalog)

Tompert, A. (1993). Bamboo hats and a rice cake. Illustrated by Demi. New York: Crown. (1-4)

Wishing to have good fortune in the new year, an old man tries to trade his wife’s kimono for rice cakes. Characters from the Japanese alphabet are incorporated into the text. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1993). The magic purse. Illustrated by K. Narahashi. New York: Margaret McElderry. (2-4)

After facing danger to help a young woman, a poor farmer receives a magic purse that always refills itself with gold. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1987). Two foolish cats. Illustrated by M. Zemach. New York: Atheneum. (1-4)

Two foolish cats go to the old monkey of the mountain to settle their quarrel. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1994). The wise old woman. Illustrated by M. Springett. New York: Margaret McElderry Books. (3-5)

A dramatic Japanese folktale that tells the story of a cruel overlord and a young farmer’s elderly mother. The overlord threatens to destroy the farmer’s village unless the young lord can perform three seemingly impossible tasks. How the elderly mother accomplishes the tasks and saves the village is a satisfying story brought to life with remarkable full-color paintings. (Borders.com)

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Biography:

Blumberg, R. (2003). Shipwrecked: The true adventures of a Japanese boy. New York: HarperTrophy. (4-6)

In the 1800s, the Japanese government had strict isolation laws. By decree, foreigners and ideas from outside Japan were forbidden. So when fourteen-year-old Manjiro and four other fishermen were shipwrecked on a small rocky island three hundred miles from shore, they wondered if they would ever be allowed to return home! Celebrated author Rhoda Blumberg regales us with Manjiro’s exciting true story. He was the first Japanese person to come to the United States, and his impressions of the country give us vivid glimpses of mid nineteenth-century American life. He even took part in the Gold Rush! In a surprising twist of fate, Manjiro became a hero in Japan, playing an important role in opening his country to westerners. Told here by a brilliant storyteller with a passion for history, Manjiro’s biography is a fast-paced, historically accurate, inspiring true-life adventure. (amazon.com)

Coerr, E. (1999). Mieko and the fifth treasure. New York: Yearling Books. (4-6)

Staying with her grandparents after the atomic bomb has been dropped on Nagasaki, ten-year-old Mieko feels that the happiness in her heart has departed forever and she will no longer be able to produce a beautiful drawing for the contest at school. (card catalog)

Coerr, E. (1997). Sadako. Illustrated by E. Young. New York: Scott Foresman. (1-4)

Hospitalized with the dreaded atom bomb disease, leukemia, a child in Hiroshima races against time to fold one thousand paper cranes to verify the legend that by doing so a sick person will become healthy. (card catalog)

Coerr, E. (1999). Sadako and the thousand paper cranes. Illustrated by R. Himler. New York: Puffin. (2-4)

Emery, V. & Stuart, L. (1998). I am Japanese American (Our American Family Series). New York: Powerkids Press.. (1-4)

No synopsis available.

Gold, A. L. (2000). A special fate: Chiune Sugihara: Hero of the Holocaust. New York: Scholastic Trade. (5-6)

Award-winning author Alison Gold presents the little-know story of Chiune Sugihara (1900-1986), a Japanese diplomat who risked everything to save the lives of thousands of Jews during the Holocaust. Sugihara chose to issue visas to Jews escaping Lithuania, despite the fact that his superiors strictly forbade him to do so. (amazon.com))

Gollub, M. (1998). Cool melons – turn to frogs!: The life and poems of Issa. Illustrated by K. G. Stone. New York: Lee and Low. (1-4)

Born in 1763 on a farm in central Japan, Issa began writing haiku as a young child. Matthew Gollub has integrated the story of Issa’s life and selections of his best-known work with Kazuko Stone’s visual interpretations in the form of whimsical watercolors. (amazon.com)

Mochizuki, K. (1997). Passage to freedom: The Sugihara Story. Illustrated by D. Lee. New York: Lee & Low Books. (3-5)

Here is the authorized true story of Chiune Sugihara, the “Japanese Schindler”, who saved thousands of Jews during World War II. Passage to Freedom tells Sugihara’s heroic story, highlighting his courageous humanity. (amazon.com)

Rambeck, R. (1994). Kristi Yamaguchi. Chicago, IL: The Child’s World. (3-5)

A biography of the young ice skater who won the gold medal in women’s figure skating in the 1992 Olympics. (card catalog)

Savage, J. (1996). Kristi Yamaguchi: Pure Gold. Bloomington, IL: Dillon Press. (3-5)

A biography of a young Japanese-American skater who won the Gold Medal in women’s figure skating at the 1992 Winter Olympics. (card catalog)

Say, A. (1999). Tea with Milk. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (2-4)

With elegant watercolors, Say has created a moving tribute to his parents and their path to discovering where home really is. The story of his mother and her journey as a young woman is heartfelt. Vividly portraying the graceful formality of Japan, this book effectively captures the struggle between two cultures as May, the young girl in the story, strives to live her own destiny. (amazon.com)

Spivak, D. (1997). Grass sandals: The travels of Basho. Illustrated by Demi. New York: Atheneum. (3-5)

An evocative portrait of the great Japanese haiku poet describes Basho’s many experiences as he traveled throughout his beloved native Japan, in a volume that also includes haiku written by Basho and Japanese characters that represent words from the verses. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1995). The invisible thread: An autobiography. New York: Beech Tree Books. (4-6)

Children’s author, Yoshiko Uchida, describes growing up in Berkeley, California, as a Nisei, a second-generation Japanese American, and her family’s internment in a Utah concentration camp during World War II. (card catalog)

Yamaguchi, K. & Brown, G. (1998). Always dream. Illustrated by D. Keith. Texas: Taylor Publishing Company. (4-6)

Two-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi has won the hearts of millions of fans. In “Always Dream”, Kristi reveals how her determination, ambition and love of skating keeps her going, even in the midst of obstacles and tragedy. (amazon.com)

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Historical Fiction:

Denenberg, B. (1999). The journal of Ben Uchida: Citizen 13559 Mirror Lake Internment Camp (My name is America). New York: Scholastic Paperbacks. (4-6)

Heartbreaking and humorous, this is the story of a twelve-year-old prisoner in one of America’s Japanese internment camps of World War II. (amazon.com)

McCully, E. A. (2008). Manjiro: The boy who risked his life for two countries. Farrar. (3-5)

In 1841, Japan had been closed to the outside world for 250 years, and anyone who tried to return to the country after leaving it could be executed. So when the small fishing boat on which fourteen-year-old Manjiro was working was shipwrecked, he despaired of ever returning to his village. The captain of the American whaling ship that rescued Manjiro took a special interest in him, inviting him to come live in Massachusetts. There, Manjiro was treated like Captain Whitfield’s son, and he began to feel as though Massachusetts was his second home. Still, he never gave up his dream of finding a way to return to Japan and see his mother again.
Watercolor illustrations bring to life the true story of a determined and resourceful young man whose intimate knowledge of two cultures later led him to play an important role in the opening of Japan to Western trade and ideas. (amazon.com)

Mochizuki, K. (1995). Baseball saved us. Illustrated by D. Lee. New York: Lee & Low Books. (1-5)

A Japanese American boy learns to play baseball when he and his family are forced to live in an internment camp during World War II, and his ability to play helps him after the war is over. (card catalog)

Mochizuki, K. (1997). Heroes. Illustrated by D. Lee. New York: Lee & Low Books. (2-4)

From the author of Baseball Saved Us comes an intergenerational story that describes how a Japanese-American family deals with the painful legacy of war. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s and talk of Vietnam, it offers a universal message of dignity and courage to anyone who feels they are different. (amazon.com)

Nishizuka, K. (2009. The beckoning cat: Based on a Japanese folktale. Illustrated by R. Litzinger. Holiday. (K-2)

This charming retelling of a Japanese folktale explains the good-luck symbolism behind the waving white cat, whom kids may recognize in the ubiquitous white statues that sit with paws raised on business counters. Young Yohei, a poor, hardworking door-to-door fish monger, finds his life transformed after a muddy white cat comes begging. Yohei shares his meager dinner with the feline visitor, and the next day he is astonished when customers begin to come straight to him. The reason, he soon discovers, is the grateful white cat, who lures people to Yohei’s door with his beckoning paw and stays on to help Yohei create a prosperous fish business. In her children’s book debut, Nishizuka writes in captivating, simple, easily paced language that is well suited for storytime, as are Litzinger’s watercolor, pencil, and gouache pictures. In petal-soft shades and textures, the uncluttered compositions feature appealingly rounded, expressive figures, and children will enjoy following, and then talking about, the mysterious, prominently placed green-eyed cat to the book’s happy conclusion. (Booklist)

Noguchi, R. & Jenks, D. (2001). Flowers from Mariko. Illustrated by M. R. Kumata. New York: Lee and Low Books. (1-4)

Mariko’s family has been freed from a Japanese-American internment camp, but the transition hasn’t been easy. Because her father’s truck has disappeared, he can’t start up his gardening business, and the family must move to a trailer park. One day, Mariko’s father gives her two seed envelopes. She plants the seeds and even serenades them. Mariko’s father is so preoccupied he doesn’t notice her garden -- until he hears her singing. At last he smiles. Flowers from Mariko tells of a family striving to re-establish their lives -- through hope, perseverance, and love. (amazon.com)

Otey-Little, M. (1996). Yoshiko and the foreigner. New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux. (K-3)

When Yoshiko befriends a charming young American Air Force officer without her family’s knowledge, and he receives orders to return to America and proposes marriage to Yoshiko, she must earn her father’s blessing before their two worlds can unite, in a story based on the author’s parents’ courtship. (amazon.com)

Salisbury, G. (1995). Under the blood-red sun. New York: Yearling Books. (5-6)

Tomikazu, a Hawaiian-born boy of Japanese descent, must help his family survive when his father and grandfather are arrested after the attack on Pearl Harbor. (amazon.com)

Savin, M. (1995). The moon bridge. New York: Apple. (4-6)

When Mitzi and her Japanese-American family are moved to an internment camp during the Second World War, she and her best friend, the rebellious Ruthie, plan to meet after the war at Golden Gate Park. (amazon.com)

Say, A. (1993). Grandfather’s journey. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (2-4)

A Japanese American man recounts his grandfather’s journey to America which he later also undertakes, and the feelings of being torn by a love for two different countries. (card catalog)

Say, A. (1989). The bicycle man. New York: Scott Foresman. (1-3)

The amazing tricks two American soldiers do on a borrowed bicycle are a fitting finale for the school sports day festivities in a small village in occupied Japan. (card catalog)

Trottier, M. (1999). Flags. Illustrated by P. Morin. Don Mills, ON: Stoddart Kids. (K-3)

Trottier turns her vision on the plight of the Nisei during World War II in this tender little story. The point of view here is interesting, with the narrator as observer, and only in the end a true participant. But it is skillfully handled. The ocean sings in these pages; the plum tree blooms. And Mr. Hiroshi’s garden endures, if not in the unfolding events, then certainly in the heart of young Mary. The reader carries away a sense of warmth, of sadness at injustice, and of hope. (Borders. com)

Uchida, Y. (1996). The bracelet. Illustrated by J. Yardley. NewYork: Paper Star. (1-4)

Emi, a Japanese American in the second grade, is sent with her family to an internment camp during World War II. The loss of her bracelet, a gift from her best friend, proves that she doesn’t need a physical reminder of that friendship. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1993). A jar of dreams. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks. (4-6)

Eleven-year-old Rinko grows up in a closely-knit Japanese American family in California during the Depression, a time of great prejudice. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1992). Journey Home. Illustrated by C. Robinson. New York: Scott Foresman. (4-6)

After their release from an American concentration camp, a Japanese-American girl and her family try to reconstruct their lives amidst strong anti-Japanese feelings which breed fear, distrust, and violence. (card catalog)

Uchida, Y. (1988). Journey to Topaz. Illustrated by D. Carrick. New York: Scott Foresman. (4-6)

Like any 11-year-old, Yuki Sakane is looking forward to Christmas when her peaceful world is suddenly shattered by the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Uprooted from her home and shipped with thousands of West Coast Japanese Americans to a desert concentration camp called Topaz, Yuki and her family face new hardships daily. (amazon.com)

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Poetry:

Cassedy, S. & Suetake, K. (1992). Red dragonfly on my shoulder. Illustrated by M. Bang. NewYork: Harpercollins. (K-5)

Thirteen haiku about animals translated from the Japanese and illustrated with collages and assemblages. (card catalog)

Demi. (1994). In the eyes of the cat: Japanese poetry for all seasons. New York: Henry Holt. (2-5)

A collection of Japanese nature poems organized according to the seasons, illustrated with paintings corresponding to the themes of the poems. (card catalog)

Livingston, M. C. (1997). Cricket never does: A collection of Haiku and Tanka. Illustrated by K. DeKiefte. New York: Margaret K. McElderry Books. (5-6)

Divided into four sections, one for each season of the year, an anthology of sixty-seven haiku and tanka, Japanese forms of verse, explores the poet’s thoughts and feelings about the world and its wonders. (amazon.com)

Mado, M. (1998). The magic pocket: Selected poems. Translated by the Empress Michiko of Japan. Illustrated by M. Anno. New York: Margaret McElderry. (K-3)

The Magic Pocket, Mado’s second collection of poetry (The Animals, 1992) reflects with quiet intimacy children’s relationship with the natural world, with lithe phrasing that is exquisitely pared down and precise. Minimal language conjures striking images, “Umbrella, umbrella, The world's/Biggest flower.'” Anno’s neutral-toned illustrations match the diminutive scale of the poems; hailstones with little faces, smiling fingernails in a row, happy acorns, and bounding rabbits decorate the pages. Both Japanese and English versions of the poems appear. (Kirkus Reviews, 1998)

Melmed, L. K. (1995). The first song ever sung. Illustrated by E. Young. New York: Puffin. (K-3))

Animal and human friends provide lyrical answers to a young boy’s musical query. (card catalog)

Nishimoto, K., editor. (1999). Haiku picturebook for children. Illustrated by K. Shimizu. Heian International Publishing Company. (K-3)

Word-pictures are complemented by charming illustrations in this unique introduction to haiku. The haiku poems from some of Japan’s most famous masters are arranged in a seasonal pattern, starting with spring and ending with winter. (Asia for Kids 2000 – 2001 Educational Catalog, p. 26)

Shannon, G. (1996). Spring: A haiku story. Illustrated by M. Zeldis. New York: Greenwillow. (K-3)

A collection of poems cleverly arranged to give the young reader the feeling, through the immediate haiku moments, of one walking through a rejuvenating spring day, is enhanced by vivid and lively folkart paintings. (amazon.com)

Spivak, D. (1997). Grass sandals: The travels of Basho. Illustrated by Demi. New York: Atheneum Books for young Readers. (3-5)

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Fantasy:

Bang, M. G. (1987). The paper crane. New York: William Morrow. (3-5))

A mysterious man enters a restaurant and pays for his dinner with a paper crane that magically comes alive and dances. (card catalog)

Myers, T. (2000). Basho and the fox. Illustrated by O. S. Han. New York: Marshall Cavendish. (K-3)

In this fictional tale about the seventeenth-century Japanese poet, Basho naively believes a fox who informs him that foxes are better poets than humans. Myers’s gently humorous story uses familiar folktale and fable elements to good effect, while Han’s watercolor paintings contain scenes reminiscent of the simple, spare appearance of haiku. (Horn Book, 2001)

Say, A. (1993). A river dream. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (K-3)

While sick in bed, a young boy opens a box from his uncle and embarks on a fantastical fishing trip. (card catalog)

Say, A. (1998). Stranger in the mirror. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. (3-5)

Waking up one morning to discover that he has rapidly aged overnight and become very old, eight-year-old Martin visits doctor after doctor, who say there is nothing wrong with him, and suffers changed relationships with his friends and family. (amazon.com)

Wells, R. (1998). Yoko. Los Angeles, CA: Hyperion Press. (K-3)

When Yoko brings sushi to school for lunch, her classmates make fun of what she eats--until one of them tries it for himself. (amazon.com)

Wells, R. (2008). Yoko writes her name. Hyperion. (K-1)

Yoko is so excited for the first day of school. She’s just learned to write her name. But when Mrs. Jenkins asks Yoko to show everyone, Olive and Sylvia make fun of her Japanese writing. "Yoko can't write. She's only scribbling!” The teasing continues as Yoko shares her favorite book at show and tell, and reads it back to front. That evening, Yoko declares that she can’t go back to school. "How can I when my reading and writing are a failure?” she asks. Luckily a little wisdom from her Mama, a little cooperation from Mrs. Jenkins, and a lot of enthusiasm from her classmates teach Yoko the most important lesson of the year: that friendship can bridge cultural differences. Not only does Yoko learn to read and write in English and graduate Kindergarten with her classmates, but everyone’s name appears in two languages on their diploma--even Olive’s and Sylvia’s! (amazon.com)

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