Wabi Sabi
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 0, age appropriate for kids over 4; suggested age 4. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Cat's extraordinary quest finds beauty in the ordinary.
Why We Rated This
for Ages 4 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence & scariness:
What Parents Need to Know
About Wabi Sabi
Parents need to know that this is one book they will want to keep on their bookshelf permanently. While younger readers may not understand the haiku, they will definitely be drawn in by the story of the inquisitive cat and all the other animals she meets. Older readers also will be fascinated with the artwork and the poetry. Modern haiku is imbedded in the story, and ancient classical haiku written in Japanese calligraphy embellishes nearly every page.
Read our full review by Patricia Tauzer
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the term "Wabi Sabi," and the subtleties of its meanings. Why was it so hard for the cat to find out the true definition of her name? Why do you think she cared? How would you explain it to her? Do you know what your name means? Families will also enjoy talking about the haiku on each page. What is a haiku, and how does each one help explain the part of the story on that page? How does the poetry add to your understanding of the cat's name? Also, examining the artwork together, picking out the various materials used in each collage, and noting how the pieces work together will be fun for both parents and kids.

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