Colors of Japan (Colors of the World)
World Of Colour Series
on Goodreads (9)
What’s inside...
What colour is Japan? It's pink like cherry blossoms, green like tea, and orange like the lava from an erupting volcano. Get to know Japan in this beautifully illustrated introduction to the Land of the Rising Sun. Ages 5-10.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What color from the book do you like best, and why?
Can you name a place or object that might have similar colors to what we saw in Japan?
How do the colors in the book make you feel?
Which part of Japan would you like to visit to see these colors in real life?
How do you think colors are important in telling the story of a place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what colors they expect to see and why.
While reading, pause on pages with a variety of colors and ask your child to describe what they see.
Relate colors in the book to familiar items in your child’s environment to enhance connection and understanding.
After reading, encourage your child to create artwork using the colors that stood out to them from the book.
Discuss personal experiences or family heritage related to the places and colors shown in the book to deepen the connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Cultural Diversity
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and engaging text, 'Colors of Japan' introduces young readers to the diverse and vibrant culture of Japan, from traditional kimonos to modern cityscapes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to respect and value different cultures, fostering a sense of global citizenship and cultural sensitivity from a young age.
Example Lesson: Understanding Colors and their Significance
Explanation: The book uses the colors found in various aspects of Japanese life to teach children about the importance of colors and how they play a significant role in cultural expressions.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this understanding by observing and discussing the colors they see in their daily life and what these colors might mean or represent.
Example Lesson: Enhancing Observational Skills
Explanation: By focusing on the details of color in Japanese culture, children are encouraged to pay close attention to the visual details of the world around them.
Real-World Application: This skill can be applied in educational settings, like in art or science classes, to improve their overall observational and analytical skills.
Example Lesson: Learning New Vocabulary
Explanation: The book introduces a range of descriptive color terms and cultural words that are unique to Japan, enhancing children’s language skills.
Real-World Application: This exposure helps in the linguistic development of a child, making them more adept at expressing themselves and understanding more complex texts.
Example Lesson: Developing a Sense of Aesthetics
Explanation: As they explore the distinctive aesthetic of Japanese culture, children develop an appreciation for artistic expressions.
Real-World Application: This appreciation can encourage children to explore art and design in more depth, possibly influencing their creative endeavors in school projects or hobbies.