Japanese Traditions: Rice Cakes, Cherry Blossoms and Matsuri: A Year of Seasonal Japanese Festivities

Examines Japanese culture and family, describing the holiday activities held in each month of the year in rural parts of the country.
Packed with colorful illustrations and fun facts about Japanese culture, celebrations, language and history, this multicultural children's books will delight children and parents alike!A wonderful look at Japanese culture and family life, Japanese Traditions is an intricately illustrated romp through the childhood reminiscences of author/illustrator Setsu Broderick. Told via a series of short text blocks and lighthearted illustrations based on cats, Japanese Traditions displays seasonal festivals and activities such asO-Bon (Festival of the Souls), O-hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and preparing for the New Year.While enjoying the charming illustrations of a family of Japanese cats, the author shares her warm childhood memories of many Japanese customs, such as gathering around thekotatsu (heated table) to stay warm, throwing soybeans to keep away ogres and hanging handmadeteru-teru-bozu (fine-weather) dolls out the window to stop the rain. There are also many traditional Japanese foods, toys, games and celebrations taught through the illustrations. All in all,Japanese Traditions provides a magical feast for children of all ages.
"Japanese Traditions is completely charming."—Leslie Swartz, co-author, Moonbeams, Dumplings & Dragon Boats
A delightful look at Japanese culture and family life, Japanese Traditions is an intricately illustrated romp through the childhood reminiscences of author/illustrator Setsu Broderick. Told via a series of short text blocks and lighthearted illustrations based on cats, Japanese Traditions displays seasonal festivals and activities such as O-Bon, O-hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and preparing for the New Year.While enjoying the charming illustrations of a family of Japanese cats, the author shares her warm childhood memories of many Japanese customs, such as gathering around the kotatsu to stay warm, throwing soybeans to keep away ogres and hanging handmade teru-teru-bozu dolls out the window to stop the rain. There are also many traditional Japanese games, toys, foods and celebrations taught through the illustrations. All in all, Japanese Traditions provides a magical feast for children of all ages.