Jasmine Toguchi, Brave Explorer
#5 of 8 in Jasmine Toguchi Series
What’s inside...
With more than 130,000 copies sold, this award-winning chapter-book series starring a spunky Japanese American heroine returns with four new standalone books set on a family vacation in Japan. Eight-year-old Jasmine Toguchi is excited for her adventure but is faced with challenges when her older sister Sophie has a crabby attitude and there are so many new things about Japan that Jasmine didn't know. Despite getting into trouble, Jasmine tries to find her footing in a new country and cheer up her sister. The story blends humor, family drama, and an engaging introduction to Japanese culture in Jasmine's delightful journey.
Character compass
Jasmine Toguchi
Sophie Toguchi
Discussion points
How did Jasmine Toguchi's adventures make you feel, and why do you think she acted the way she did?
What does bravery mean to you, and how did Jasmine show bravery in the book?
Can you think of a time when you felt like exploring something new like Jasmine? What did you discover?
How did Jasmine’s relationships with her family and friends help her in her adventures?
What would you have done differently if you were in Jasmine's shoes during her explorations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about Jasmine’s adventures, fostering a deeper emotional connection to the story. Highlight parallels between Jasmine’s courage and challenges they've faced themselves to make the discussion more relatable. Ask them to imagine alternative scenarios to foster creative thinking. Use descriptive praise to acknowledge your child's insights, boosting their confidence and involvement in the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Jasmine Toguchi faces challenges and setbacks during her adventures, but she demonstrates resilience by continuing to strive towards her goals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist through difficulties in their own lives, whether it’s struggling with a tough subject at school or overcoming a personal fear.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: Jasmine’s character is filled with a deep sense of curiosity that drives her to explore and learn about new cultures and places.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be explorative and inquisitive about the world around them, leading to a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Relationships
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jasmine’s interactions with her family members, especially her sister, highlight the importance of strong family bonds and support.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value and nurture relationships with their family and friends, understanding that these relationships are crucial for personal growth and support.
Example Lesson: Confidence
Explanation: As Jasmine tackles new challenges and ventures into unfamiliar territories, she builds her self-confidence.
Real-World Application: This aspect of the book can help children develop their own confidence when facing new or intimidating situations in school, sports, or social interactions.