The Funny Little Woman 

by Arlene Mosel

Summary: While chasing a dumpling, a little lady is captured by wicked creatures from whom she escapes with the means of becoming the richest woman in Japan.

This book won the prestigious American Library Association’s Caldecott award for illustrations. The illustrations mostly use simple dull colors, but this allows for the funny little woman in bright red and orange to stick out. The story is a Japanese folktale that is wonderful for a multicultural unit lesson. 

Interest Level: grade k-3

Reading Level: grade 4

Wink: The Ninja Who Wanted to Nap

Wink: The Ninja Who Wanted to Nap

by J.C. Phillipps

Summary: Wink loves being the most famous ninja in Japan but when he needs a nap his fans will not leave him alone, and so he seeks guidance from his former teacher, Master Zutsu.

This is a comical book. It is great for discussing the negative side of fame. It is also fabulous for teaching children that naps are okay because even active ninjas take them!

Interest Level: ages 2-4, grades K-3
Reading Level: grade 3