Sashiko's Stitches
on Goodreads (54)
What’s inside...
Stitch by stitch, a child learns to cope with difficult emotions through the traditional Japanese embroidery practice of sashiko in this moving picture book. Sashiko is a young girl with very big feelings. When her mother teaches her about her namesake—the traditional Japanese practice of mending through embroidery—she finds an outlet for some of those emotions. With each stitch, the dark cloud around her lightens, until her big fears begin to feel less scary. As she heals tears in the fabric, she begins to find a sense of calm and hope. This deeply resonant picture book explores the transformative power of creative expression, as Sashiko finds threads of peace in her newfound craft. Children and parents alike will take away an appreciation for this beautiful artistic tradition, and for the great potential creative practices have to help us cope with difficult emotions.
Discussion points
How do you think Sashiko felt when she learned to stitch from her mother? Can you think of something you learned from a family member?
What did Sashiko’s stitches teach her about patience and perseverance?
In what ways did the garden influence Sashiko’s artwork?
Why do you think Sashiko kept practicing her stitching even when it was difficult?
How can learning a new skill, like Sashiko did with stitching, be important in our lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences with learning something new to Sashiko’s journey in the book.
Discuss the emotions Sashiko might have felt throughout the book, and ask your child to talk about times they have felt similar emotions.
Use the illustrations of Sashiko's stitches as a visual aid to discuss attention to detail and the beauty of handcrafted art.
Explore the cultural aspects presented in the book, such as the significance of stitching in Japanese culture, to broaden your child’s world view.
Highlight the themes of persistence and creativity, prompting your child to think of ways they can incorporate these values in their own hobbies or tasks.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Sashiko's Stitches follows the journey of the main character who learns and masters the art of Sashiko embroidery, despite facing initial difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can apply the idea of perseverance by continuing to practice and improve upon their own hobbies or school subjects, even when they find them challenging.
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: The book introduces readers to the Japanese art of Sashiko embroidery, educating them about this cultural craft and its significance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to respect and show interest in cultural practices different from their own, promoting inclusivity and diversity awareness.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Through Sashiko's engagement with embroidery, the book celebrates creativity and the joy of creating something beautiful and meaningful.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to explore their own creative outlets, whether through art, writing, or any other form of expression, enhancing their imaginative skills.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: Sashiko’s journey in learning embroidery requires patience, a skill that is highlighted as she progresses in her craft.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of being patient while working on projects or learning new skills, understanding that mastery takes time.
Example Lesson: Self-expression
Explanation: The book portrays embroidery as a form of self-expression that helps Sashiko connect with her heritage and personal identity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to find their own ways of expressing themselves and exploring their identity through various forms of art and self-expression.