I read through review after review on Goodreads in search of feedback and found a few that claim their children enjoyed them. They they are charming and impart a significant message for all of us about living in optimum relationship with our world, but they aren't flashy or witty. To be honest, I'm still wondering about their responses to these. When I read the first one, I wasn't really sure how well these books would be received by children. Her books celebrate connection and a coming together of all of us, where every being gets what is 'just right for them.' What is prominent is an inclusive democracy of all living things.

Her interest in environmental and animal welfare issues manifests itself in each of these books in different ways.

I found myself pouring over the pages and savouring the details. Kaya Doi's colour pencil drawings create a whimsical world to get lost in. I am lusting after 'honey sponge cake balls wrapped in flower petals.' As soon as I am back in Vancouver, BC, I'm searching for a Japanese bakery or restaurant where I can find these! You will have to read the book yourself to find out what happens to those marvellous marbles.Įach of these books highlights delightful treats.

Eventually they a door of ice that takes them into a world of animals where they find 'hot fruit punch with apples and cinnamon.' In the great hall they end up playing marbles made from 'frozen buds of many kinds of flowers'. In Chirri & Chirra, The Snowy Day, The girls end up riding their bikes in the snow.

Chirri and chirra snowy day