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Broaden Children’s Cultural Understanding
In Why Max “Meows” and Risa “Nyaas”?, readers learn alongside two children from America and Japan who discover fun differences in the way their two cultures express onomatopoeias. Where did the idea for this book come from?
When I first started studying Japanese, I was amazed by how much onomatopoeia is used in everyday conversations. In US English, we use words like “pop,” “meow,” “crackle,” and “bang” to add vividness to our language. However, in Japanese, there are thousands of onomatopoeia used that not only represent real sounds but also describe conditions, movements, and feelings. For example, “fura-fura” means dizzy, “waku-waku” means excited, and “noro-noro” means moving slowly. I found these expressions so colorful and funny that I thought they would be a fun way to introduce language differences to children. While teaching cross-cultural education at elementary schools in Kobe, Japan, one of my most popular lessons was about the differences in Japanese and US animal sounds. This experience inspired me to write my award-winning children’s book, Why Max MEOWS and Risa NYAAS?
Can you share with us a little about the research required to put your book together?
Because Japanese and US English languages have different pronunciations, I wanted to ensure children learn the correct way to pronounce Japanese animal sounds. After consulting with several native Japanese speakers, I created a chart for the book that includes both Japanese and US English animal sounds with phonetic pronunciation and spelling.
What is one thing you hope young readers, their parents, and teachers are able to take away from Max and Risa’s story?
Having lived in Japan for over 25 years, the culture has profoundly influenced my life. Through my children’s book, I want to introduce young minds to the wonders of Japanese art, language, and culture. In my book, Max, an American boy, is intrigued when he hears Risa, a Japanese girl, mimic a cat’s sound as “nyaa” instead of “meow.” This curiosity leads to the discovery that animals might “speak” different languages in different parts of the world. I hope teachers and parents can use this universal concept of animal sounds to broaden children’s cultural understanding and even spark interest in learning a foreign language.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
In line with my mission to introduce children to the rich traditions of Japanese art, culture, and language, I am currently writing a book with a Kintsugi theme. Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, celebrating imperfections, and embracing the beauty of flaws. Additionally, I am working on a second onomatopoeia-themed book that introduces the Japanese onomatopoeia used to express feelings and emotions.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | YouTube | Amazon
Max’s ordinary day takes an extraordinary turn when he and his friend Risa stumble upon a cage with a mouse in their classroom. They realize something peculiar – they hear animal sounds differently. Why does a mouse go “chu-chu”or a crow cry “kaa-kaa”? Max and his friend Risa embark on a mission to uncover the truth! Are dogs barking “wan-wan”? Is it “meow-meow” or “nyaa-nyaa” for a cat?
With vivid illustrations and an engaging storyline, get ready to giggle as Max and Risa reveal the hilarious differences between English and Japanese animal sounds.
Will Max and Risa ever agree on the horse’s sound? Grab your detective hat and join them on their whimsical journey to find out in this heartwarming tale of friendship, curiosity, and the magic of language.
Why Max “Meows and Risa “Nyaas”?: Cracking the Code of Animal Sounds Across Cultures
Why Max “Meows” and Risa “Nyaas”?: Cracking the Code of Animal Sounds Across Cultures, by David Huerta, is a delightful exploration of onomatopoeias, emphasizing their role in developing language skills such as speech fluency and pronunciation. The story follows Max, an American boy, and Risa, a Japanese girl, who share a classroom in Japan. Max is initially puzzled when he realizes that Risa interprets the sound a mouse makes differently than he does. This discovery leads him to embark on a fascinating journey with Risa to uncover how animal sounds are interpreted across cultures.
The characters of Max and Risa are endearing and humorous, showcasing a strong, supportive friendship. Their interactions are engaging and highlight the joy of learning about cultural differences. Through their journey, readers gain valuable insights into Japanese culture, as Max and Risa navigate their differing perspectives and learn to appreciate each other’s viewpoints. This narrative beautifully illustrates the importance of accepting others’ opinions and the value of collaboration.
Huerta’s book features a charming array of animal sounds, including those of dogs, cats, and sheep, offering a rich and entertaining learning experience. To enhance understanding, a table at the end lists the sounds in English, Japanese, and their Japanese pronunciations, providing a practical reference for young readers. The illustrations are vibrant and cheerful, with clear and relaxed tones that make the story visually appealing. Set in a lively school environment, the narrative portrays learning as an enjoyable adventure. Although some sentences may be a bit long for very young readers, the explanations are thorough, and the concepts are conveyed clearly.
Why Max “Meows” and Risa “Nyaas”?: Cracking the Code of Animal Sounds Across Cultures is a charming and educational tale that not only introduces children to animal sounds but also serves as a captivating introduction to Japanese culture. David Huerta has created a story that is both entertaining and enlightening, making it an excellent resource for fostering cultural awareness and language development in young readers.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D1RLPDXX
I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry
Prepare to embark on a delightful journey into the heartwarming world of Rafa, a young boy who’s deeply connected to his family’s culinary traditions and the rich tapestry of his culture. I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry is a story that will capture your heart and inspire a celebration of diversity. Rafa’s love for his family’s cuisine runs deep as he savors every flavor and contemplates the fascinating history woven into his cultural dishes. From aromatic rice to delectable samosas, his taste buds dance with joy. However, there’s a bittersweet twist to Rafa’s culinary adventure. His friends, perhaps hesitant or unfamiliar with his exotic fare, shy away from trying the dishes he holds dear to his heart. But then, the story takes an exciting turn as Rafa seizes an opportunity to shine on World Food Day at his school. With an eagerness that’s infectious, he unveils the wondrous flavors and vibrant colors that his culture’s food has to offer. The magic unfolds as Rafa’s friends take that brave step, realizing that his food is not just delicious but an exciting journey into the unknown.
I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry is a sweet and charming tale that carries a powerful message for young readers and adults alike. It celebrates the beauty of being different and the joy of sharing one’s cultural heritage. Rafa’s unwavering commitment to staying true to himself is a testament to the importance of authenticity. Author Erlin Kakkanad has crafted a story that’s both fun and enlightening. It encourages young readers to be open-minded and adventurous when it comes to exploring new flavors and cultures. The vivid illustrations transport readers into Rafa’s world, allowing them to not only savor the aromas but also appreciate the rich history that surrounds us all. The author has thoughtfully enriched this tale by including a list of cultural facts, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the traditions behind Rafa’s beloved dishes. Alongside these facts, images of the various spices used in his family’s recipes immerse readers in an educational and sensory experience, making the story all the more immersive and engaging.
In a world where diversity should be celebrated, I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry reminds us that our differences are what make our country, and our world, so incredibly beautiful. It’s a book that will leave you with a smile on your face and a heart full of appreciation for the flavors and colors of life. Embrace the culinary adventure with Rafa, and you’ll discover that being different is something to be cherished and celebrated.
Pages: 90 | ASIN : B0CH4HS4JB
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