Best of
Japan

1963

One Hundred and Eight Bells


Jane Flory - 1963
    She is willing but forgetful, as she does many chores. During the time spent with her here, not too much happens- her father gets a wonderful commission, her widowed aunt receives a proposal which should make her happier than it does, and Setsuko's talent is recognized and her hopes confirmed. But there are many graceful scenes and nice details of places, shops, school, food and flowers, etc. so that the story, while low-keyed, is never dull.

The Seed and the Sower


Laurens van der Post - 1963
    What follows is the story of two British officers whose spirits the Japanese try to break. Yet out of all the violence and misery strange bonds of love and friendship are forged between the prisoners - and their gaolers. It is a battle of survival that becomes a battle of contrasting wills and philosophies as the intensity of the men's relationship develops.

Guri and Gura


Rieko Nakagawa - 1963
    In this story, the friends find a giant egg on their walk in the forest, which they use to bake a giant sponge cake. Smelling the cake, the animals gather around to share the freshly baked, fluffy treat. A story of resourcefulness, friendship, and sharing this fully illustrated CD edition of a favorite classic is sure to capture the imagination of young children.

Seaweed for Breakfast


Nina Epton - 1963
    What are the Japanese like today, seventeen years after Hiroshima? That is what I wanted to find out and I believed that the only way to do so was to live in Japanese style with Japanese families."This is what Nina Epton did.

The Fox Wedding


Miyoko Matsutani - 1963
    "Soon, Ojiisan's beloved fox disappears, but after searching for her desperately, Ojiisan believes he sees her wedding procession in the rainbow. On that same night, Ojiisan has a strange visitor who proves his belief and rewards his patient guardianship."