Tag Archives: Asian culture

The Mochi Makers

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by Sharon Fujimoto-Johnson

Emi and her grandma (Obaachan) spend time together making a family recipe of mochi. As they work, Obaachan shares the history of the recipe back to her own grandmother. Obaachan brought that recipe with her to America, along with her wedding kimono and some cherished red lacquer dishes. The two also reminisce about Ojiichan (grandpa), who the reader assumes is deceased. They finish the mochi, package some together to gift to family and friends, and then enjoy their mochi – some wrapped in seaweed and dipped in soy sauce just like Ojiichan like to eat it. In this story, mochi is love, family tradition and a thank you.

The soft colors of the mochi and surroundings add to the gentle approach of this book. The love between Emi and Obaachan is evident in the text and the illustrations. This small window into their time together is sweet and filled with memories and promise. The additional back matter – author’s autobiographical note, mochi history and family mochi recipe adds to the richness of this book. Words and illustrations make you feel like you can almost taste the mochi along with Emi and Obaachan. Purchase this one – it’s wonderful!

Throw a Lunar New Year Party

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Written by Christina Leaf

Express!: Party Time! is a six-book series that introduces holidays and their history. Then, gives directions for some simple decorations, foods and activities. Everything has step-by-step directions with illustrations and a list of extra materials over those noted at the beginning of the books. Each project is introduced with some information connecting it to the history of the holiday. There are Table of Contents, Index, Glossary and “To Learn More” section with extra resources. Particularly helpful are the “Top Tips” scattered throughout each book. Color illustrations are engaging and the text is accessible.

Throw a Lunar New Year Party gives information and directions for projects related to that holiday. Projects include decorations, foods and activities along with additional information about their history or cultural relevance. Most projects can be done independently except for the dumplings and stir fry noodles, which should have adult supervision. Photos are attractive and directions are clearly written with accompanying illustrations. This attractive book will be a great addition to your collection.