Ojiichan's Gift - by Chieri Uegaki (Hardcover)

About the Book

Inspired in part by her late father, a traditional Japanese landscaper and gardener who taught her "that moss on rocks is a gift of time, not to be washed away," this new story from the author of "Suki's Kimono" explores a deep intergenerational bond and the passing of knowledge from grandparent to grandchild over time. Full color.

Book Synopsis

When Mayumi was born, her grandfather created a garden for her. It was unlike any other garden she knew. It had no flowers or vegetables. Instead, Ojiichan made it out of stones: "big ones, little ones and ones in-between." Every summer, Mayumi visits her grandfather in Japan, and they tend the garden together. Raking the gravel is her favorite part. Afterward, the two of them sit on a bench and enjoy the results of their efforts in happy silence. But then one summer, everything changes. Ojiichan has grown too old to care for his home and the garden. He has to move. Will Mayumi find a way to keep the memory of the garden alive for both of them?

This gentle picture book story will warm children's hearts as it explores a deep intergenerational bond and the passing of knowledge from grandparent to grandchild over time. The lyrical text by Chieri Uegaki and luminous watercolor illustrations by Genevieve Simms beautifully capture the emotional arc of the story, from Mayumi's contentment through her anger and disappointment to, finally, her acceptance. The story focuses on an important connection to nature, particularly as a place for quiet reflection. It contains character education lessons on caring, responsibility, perseverance and initiative. It's also a wonderful way to introduce social studies conversations about family, aging and multiculturalism. Mayumi lives in North America with her Japanese mother and Dutch father, and visits her grandfather in Japan. Some Japanese words are included.

Review Quotes

... a quiet look at traditions, change, and the special relationships between grandparents and children.--Horn Book

... a solid purchase for picture book collections, especially where stories about processing emotions are needed.--School Library Journal

... a warm and satisfying story ...--CM Magazine

... lovely ...--The Globe and Mail

... vibrant and quietly strong.--Canadian Children's Book News

... Uegaki gingerly explores the strong emotions that accompany a loss and the mementos that can soften grief.--Publishers Weekly

A rewarding Canadian picture book.--Booklist

Like a garden, this meticulously composed work will bring readers serenity and joy.--Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Young readers will relate to the vivid, bodily ways that the book explores Mayumi's feelings through action.--ABQLA

About the Author

Chieri Uegaki is the author of Rosie and Buttercup, Suki's Kimono and Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin. Her books have garnered such honors as the 2015 Ezra Jack Keats Book Award. Chieri lives on the Sunshine Coast in British Columbia.

Ojiichan's Gift is the first picture book for award-winning illustrator Genevieve Simms. Her illustration clients include House of Anansi Press, the Walrus and the Boston Globe. Genevieve lives in Toronto, Ontario.