Monday, April 6, 2009

Tsunami by Kimiko Kajikawa

Illustrated by Ed Young.

Abstract: A wealthy man in a Japanese village, whom everyone calls Ojiisan, which means grandfather, sets fire to his rice fields to warn the innocent people of the approaching tsunami.

Philomel Books, 2009.

8 comments:

  1. This was suggested by a reader of this blog, who said "I'd like to suggest Tsunami! by Kimiko Kajikawa, illustrated by Ed Young. It's a great story about sacrifice and generosity of spirit with absolutely breathtaking mixed media illustrations."

    Thanks for the suggestion!

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  2. Wonderful book. Good suggestion.

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  3. I didn't think I would like this book but was proved wrong. Wonderfully done and well worth reading

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  4. I'm sure I should appreciate the art in this book more than I did. I found it difficult to look at and sometimes almost impossible to decipher. I'm guessing it is really great collage work (to those who understand the medium), but it just didn't work for me.

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  5. I loved this book - both the great story and wonderful art. I didn't think it had much kid appeal but I have changed my mind. Good choice.

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  6. I just recently read this book, and was really floored by how beautiful it was! The story is riveting, and the collage-style artwork by Ed Young is incredible. Haven't seen the author's website mentioned here -- if anyone is interested, it's authorforkids dot com. Here's hoping "Tsunami!" wins a Caldecott in 2010!

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  7. Whoops -- sorry about that, the URL I posted yesterday for the Tsunami! author, Kimiko Kajikawa, should be author4kids dot com (not "four," but "4").

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  8. This book really grew on me. At first, the illustrations seemed to abstract, and, as time progressed, Ed Young's intention hit me like a large wave. Really powerful. The words and illustrations truly touch my heart.

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