Masako Hidaka

There are two important reasons why I enjoyed this book. First of all, this is a perfect book to show children how people’s lives can vary in different parts of the world. After reading this book, readers can compare the life of northern Japan and the life they live in this United States. For example, we do not have so much snow that the main form of transportation is walking. Most children will know transportation as cars or buses. The clothes that they wear in the story is also different from what the child wears. The characters cover themselves from head to toe in order to keep warm. Children can also spot the similarities of both locations and lifestyles. In our region, children have seen snow and have played in it, just like Mi-chan. There are also local markets that sell the same items like food, crafts, and flowers. Children can also compare the statues they see and the statue that Mi-chan encountered.
The second reason why I liked this book was the theme it portrayed. The theme of this book was to give to others as well as receive. The act of giving was shown when Mi-chan brushed off the snow from the important statue. After doing a good deed, she was repaid by receiving free berries for her snow bunnies. Mi-chan’s mother even requested to bow their heads in thanks to Jizo’s statue. I really liked this theme because it encourages positive behavior.… (meer)