Wabi Sabi
What’s inside...
Wabi Sabi, a little cat in Kyoto, Japan, embarks on a journey to uncover the meaning of her name after her owner gives an unsatisfying answer to friends visiting from another land. Along the way, Wabi Sabi discovers the Japanese philosophy of wabi sabi, which finds beauty in simplicity, the ordinary, and the imperfect. Through spare text and haiku, author Mark Reibstein weaves an extraordinary story complemented by breathtaking collages from Caldecott Medal-winning artist Ed Young. The book illustrates the unique worldview of wabi sabi and was named a New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book for 2008.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-11
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think 'wabi sabi' means? How can we see beauty in imperfection around us?
The cat, Wabi Sabi, goes on a journey to understand her name. Can you think of a time you discovered something important about yourself? What was that journey like?
Why do you think the author chose to tell the story using haiku? How do the poems make you feel about Wabi Sabi's journey?
What did Wabi Sabi learn from the different animals and places she visited? What did you learn from them?
How can we apply the idea of 'wabi sabi' to our everyday lives? Can you think of examples at home or school where this concept might help?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on the idea of finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection. Listen actively and share your perspectives to foster a two-way dialogue.
Discuss the haiku poems in the book. Talk about the structure of haiku and maybe try writing a few together that describe moments from your own lives.
Connect the themes of the book with real-life examples. Point out instances in nature or in daily life where ‘wabi sabi’ is evident.
Ask your child to draw or describe what ‘wabi sabi’ looks like to them. This can help them internalize the concept and apply it creatively.
Use reflective questions to encourage deeper thinking. For instance, ask how they feel about their own journeys of self-discovery and understanding, similar to Wabi Sabi’s.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of simplicity
Explanation: The main character, Wabi Sabi, explores the concept of finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection through his journey.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the simple joys in everyday life, such as playing with a simple toy or enjoying a quiet moment, instead of always seeking grander or more perfect things.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery
Explanation: Throughout the book, Wabi Sabi seeks to understand the meaning of his name and, in the process, learns more about himself and his place in the world.
Real-World Application: This story can encourage children to explore their own identities and appreciate their unique qualities and characteristics.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Wabi Sabi's journey is not easy; he encounters many challenges but continues to seek understanding tirelessly.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges, whether it's solving a difficult puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Acceptance
Explanation: The book conveys the importance of accepting oneself and others, despite imperfections and differences.
Real-World Application: This can help children build healthier relationships by embracing diversity and practicing acceptance towards themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Mindfulness
Explanation: Wabi Sabi’s journey emphasizes being present and fully experiencing each moment, reflecting the mindfulness aspect of the Wabi-Sabi philosophy.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by practicing mindfulness, such as paying full attention during a task or savoring their experiences, fostering a greater appreciation for life's moments.