<b>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!</b><br><br>A wonderful look at Japanese culture and family life, <i>Japanese Traditions</i> 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, <i>Japanese Traditions</i> displays seasonal festivals and activities such as <i>O-Bon</i> (Festival of the Souls) , <i>O-hanami</i> (cherry blossom viewing) and preparing for the New Year.<br><br>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 <i>kotatsu</i> (heated table) to stay warm, throwing soybeans to keep away ogres and hanging handmade <i>teru-teru-bozu</i> (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, <i>Japanese Traditions</i> provides a magical feast for children of all ages.
