One Day in Japan with Hokusai (Adventures in Art and Architecture) [Hardcover]

Julia Altmann (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 6 and up | Grade Level: 1 and up | Series: Adventures in Art and Architecture

Kiku and Yoshi can't wait to visit their grandfather, Japan's most famous artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849). Their adventure begins in the bustling streets of Edo (now known as Tokyo), where they encounter hard-working fishermen and traders, dancers and dignitaries, servants and important guests of the Emperor. Arriving at their grandfather's, they see works by the old artist, who tells them exciting tales of his travels to the far away cities of Kyoto and Osaka. Journeys in those days were extremely strenuous and Hokusai had to carry his luggage on his back, protecting it from treacherous bandits while struggling through storms and across rivers. This exciting story is fully illustrated with Hokusai's delightful and detailed prints and told in a lively style to appeal to children of all ages.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 2-4-Kiku and Yoshi are off for a visit to their grandfather, the Japanese artist Hokusai. His woodblock prints and other illustrations are used to show the travels of the siblings and what they see on their way to his house in Edo, now Tokyo. Unfortunately, readers don't know that these are reproductions of his art until the final page, and they may be confused when they never see the children on their journey. The author's use of a fictional account as a device to showcase the art works better when they arrive at their grandfather's and he regales them with stories of his travels and adventures, illustrated again with his work. The text is weak and often contrived. Christina Bjork's Linnea in Monet's Garden (R & S Bks., 1987) uses this device far more effectively.
DeAnn Tabuchi, San Anselmo Public Library, CA
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From the Publisher

Journeys in those days were extremely strenuous and Hokusai had to carry his luggage on his back, protecting it from treacherous bandits while struggling through storms and across rivers. This exciting story is fully illustrated with Hokusai's delightful and detailed prints, and told in a lively style to appeal to children of all ages.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 6 and up
  
• Hardcover: 30 pages
• Publisher: Prestel Publishing (April 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 3791324861
• ISBN-13: 978-3791324869
• Product Dimensions: 11.3 x 9.6 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #688,520 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Charming, June 2, 2010

By 

C. M. Clarke (Near Washington) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: One Day in Japan with Hokusai (Adventures in Art and Architecture) (Hardcover)

This is a beautifully illustrated and told story of Hokusai and a student, written for youngsters. It's charmingly done. Adults who are fans of Hokusai's works will also enjoy and learn from it.