Wishing to have good fortune in the new year, an old man tries to trade his wife’s kimono for rice cakes. Characters from the Japanese alphabet are incorporated into the text.
Asia
Materials from Asia
Hiroshima And The Atomic Bomb (World War II 50th Anniversary Series)
Describes the events surrounding the decision to drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the devastating destruction of these cities, and the eventual Japanese surrender and end of World War II.
The Ancient Chinese (Look Into The Past)
Looks at the history and culture of ancient China, and discusses agriculture, city life, families, leisure pastimes, beliefs, education, trade, and industry.
The Painted Fan
When a brave maiden subdues a demon using a fan that had been given to her by her mother, she brings about the downfall of the tyrannical Lord Shang and reunites the imperial houses of Li and Chen.
The Story Of Chopsticks
When little Kai Kang cannot get enough to eat, he begins using sticks to grab food too hot for the hands, and soon all of China uses Kai zi, or chopsticks, in a humorous tale of how chopsticks may have been invented.
The Waiting Day
In ancient China, a hardworking ferryman who tries to please his demanding and unappreciative passengers learns an important lesson from a beggar sitting patiently by the riverbank.
Long-Long’s New Year: A Story About The Chinese Spring Festival
In this beautifully illustrated picture book, a little Chinese boy named Long-Long accompanies his grandfather into the city to sell cabbages in order to buy food and decorations for the New Year. Selling cabbages is harder than Long-Long expects, and he encounters many adventures before he finds a way to help his grandfather, and earn New Year’s treats for his mother and little cousin. The stunning, authentic illustrations-by a talented Chinese artist-capture the look of everyday life in rural China. Combined with the charming story of Long-Long’s trip to the city, they offer a unique introduction to Chinese culture. Includes a glossary of Chinese terms.
The Ancient Chinese (Worlds Of The Past)
Explores various aspects of ancient Chinese culture, including art, government, societal structure, religion, and everyday life.
The Dwarf Giant
Prince Mainichi and Princess Ichinichi are visited by a rude dwarf, who inflicts upon them evil and dangerous games before revealing his true self.
Kancil And The Crocodiles: A Tale From Malaysia
A mouse deer and a tortoise trick some hungry crocodiles into helping them cross a river but fail to plan for their getting back.