Hello, Japan!: A Fun and Educational Travel Book for Kids Ages 4–8 to Explore Culture, Language, and Landmarks (Sophie & Stephie: The Travel Sisters 12)

5 Star Review

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Editorial Book Review:

By TJ Brown

It's very special to see the joy in a child's eyes as they learn about a new country, and this book does a great job of capturing that magic. The book, Hello, Japan!, is a wonderful travel adventure that is full of heart, culture, and curiosity. It's the kind of book that doesn't just keep kids entertained; it also lets them experience a different way of life in a way that is safe, fun, and right for their age.

What stood out most to me was how interactive the story felt without being overwhelming. It strikes a great mix between learning and fun, with new things to learn on every page. From making sushi to seeing Kabuki theater to seeing cherry blossoms, the book has just the right mix of famous sights and cultural touchstones to make an easy-to-understand introduction to Japan. Many hours of love and attention were put into making sure the details were correct and fun for kids.

The illustrations are bright and lively, but they're never a mess. They seem like they were made on purpose to spark your mind and reinforce the themes of the story. Every scene, from a Japanese temple to a bowl of ramen, is carefully drawn to feel warm and familiar, even if the reader has never been there before. That visual warmth makes kids feel safe and curious, which makes them want to ask questions and get excited about places they might one day visit.

But what I liked most about the book was how it made me feel connected. It's not just about traveling or seeing sights; it's also about understanding, about celebrating differences while also showing the shared joy of discovery. There's a gentle thread of kindness and inclusion running through every interaction, which makes it a great book for families and classrooms alike.

It's not just a story about Japan; it's a call to learn more about the world and dream bigger. Hey, Japan! is a great book to start your child off with if they are interested in traveling or just starting to ask questions about other countries. It lets you see things from a different point of view in the nicest and greatest way possible. I am looking forward to seeing the Travel Sisters again.

About the Author

Ekaterina Otiko

Ekaterina loves to travel and inspire children to explore the world. She has lived on four continents, speaks six languages, and visited almost a hundred countries. Ekaterina holds a master of arts degree in international affairs and studied psychology, linguistics, and elementary education. She also ran an international education company, visiting schools and universities around the world. Ekaterina's studies and travels prompted her to create "Sophie & Stephie: The Travel Sisters," a book series based on travel adventures with her two daughters. When Ekaterina isn't writing travel stories, trotting the globe, or mastering a new language, she enjoys spending time with her daughters, dancing, doing yoga, painting, kayaking, and frolicking in the ocean. She also loves animals and wishes she had an elephant in her backyard. Ekaterina lives in California with her doctor husband and their two courageous daughters. With her suitcase always packed, her mind always open to exploring a new location, and her computer always ready to receive a new story, Ekaterina can’t wait to share her experiences with young readers.