“From Up On Poppy Hill” (2011)

Directed by Goro Miyazaki. Absolutely yes.

“Japanese Children’s Favorite Stories” by Florence Sakade

Illustrated by Yoshisuke Kurosaki. A disappointment. Pity.

“Seven Little Mice Have Fun on the Ice” by Kazuo Iwamura

My child likes this book as much as other parts of the mice’s adventures. Again, Mama Mouse reveals her hidden talents and accomplishments, this time in ice fishing. Non-violent stories, celebrating everyday cleverness and care.

“Grandfather’s Journey” by Allen Say

This book received many awards and it certainly deserves them, because it is beautiful and wise. Say tells a family story which is about immigration, about quests for a new life, about alienation, and about multiple allegiances to multiple homelands. Good reading for Thanksgiving.

Sesame Street: “Big Bird in Japan”

We love you Kaguya-hime!

“Seven Little Mice Go to School” by Haruo Yamashita

Illustrations by Kazuo Iwamura. Very sweet book, and very Japanese message: a collective confronting a monster always wins. I recommend.