WORK TITLE: Up, Up, Ever Up!
WORK NOTES:
PSEUDONYM(S):
BIRTHDATE:
WEBSITE: https://www.anitayasuda.com/
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COUNTRY: Canada
NATIONALITY: Canadian
LAST VOLUME: CA 261
Traditional Kimono Silks, Schiffer Publishing (Atglen, PA), 2007
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Other books for Schiffer Publishing include Snapshot San Diego: Sun Surf, and Sand; Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur; and Buffalo Past and Present.
SIDELIGHTS
Anita Yasuda told CA: “I wrote my first books on antique Japanese fabrics because I had an extensive collection that I wanted to share and a passion for 1970s Japan. I write because I love researching, talking to experts, and learning new things. I have written several more Japan- and non-Japan-related books. I am currently working on a series of multicultural books for children to increase awareness and tolerance of Asian culture and customs.”
BIOCRIT
PERIODICALS
Kirkus Reviews Aug. 1, 2024, review of Yasuda, Anita: UP, UP, EVER UP!
Booklist vol. 120 no. 21 July, 2024. Weisman, Kay. , “Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life in the Mountains.”.
Publishers Weekly vol. 264 no. 25 June 19, 2017, , “Explore Comets and Asteroids! With 25 Great Projects.”. p. 114.
School Library Journal vol. 62 no. 10 Oct., 2016. Drucker, Marie. , “Yasuda, Anita. Explore Greek Myths!: With 25 Projects.”. p. 134.
Booklist vol. 111 no. 22 Aug. 1, 2015, Leeper, Angela. , “Girls in Science Series. Nomad. Gr. 4-7.”. p. 54.
Booklist vol. 111 no. 19-20 June 1, 2015, Cooper, Ilene. , “Amazing America series. Amicus/12-story. Gr. 3-6.”. p. 80.
Booklist vol. 112 no. 7 Dec. 1, 2015, Goldsmith, Francisca. , “Explore Norse Myths! With 25 Great Projects.”.
Booklist vol. 110 no. 18 May 15, 2014, Anderson, Erin. , “Explore Natural Resources! With 25 Great Projects.”. p. 47.
School Library Journal vol. 60 no. 7 July, 2014. Hebert, Jane. , “Yasuda, Anita. Explore Natural Resources!: With 25 Great Projects.”. p. 122.
Children’s Bookwatch May, 2013. , “The Native American Shelf.”.
School Library Journal vol. 59 no. 8 Aug., 2013. Bryant, Madeline J. , “Yasuda, Anita. Explore Native American Cultures!: With 25 Great Projects.”. p. 130.
School Library Journal vol. 58 no. 8 Aug., 2012. Bryant, Madeline J. , “Yasuda, Anita. Explore the Wild West!: With 25 Great Projects.”. p. 116.
Booklist vol. 108 no. 22 Aug. 1, 2012, Anderson, Erin. , “Explore the Wild West! With 25 Great Projects.”. p. 85.
Resource Links vol. 17 no. 3 Feb., 2012. Pennell, Victoria. , “Justin Bieber (Remarkable People Series).”. p. 18.
ONLINE
Anita Yasuda Home Page, http://www.anitayasuda.com (July 22, 2007).
SHORT BIO
Anita Yasuda is the author of Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei A Life In The Mountains, Diwali: A Festival Of Joy, Bollywood Beat, and many other books for young readers. She lives in the rolling hills of Ontario.
LONGER BIO
Anita Yasuda is the author of Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life In The Mountains, illustrated by Yuko Shimizu; Diwali: A Festival Of Joy, illustrated by Darshika Varma; and Bollywood Beat, illustrated by Devika Oza, as well as many other books for young readers. She earned her honors degree in East Asian and South Asian studies at the University of Toronto, Victoria College, and her Montessori and Early Childhood qualifications at the AMI Institute in Vancouver, British Columbia. After graduating, Anita worked many jobs, from preschool teacher, sales clerk, caterer, firefighter (for one day), freelance magazine writer, and authoring books for educational publishers.
Anita lives in the rolling hills of Ontario with her family. Her dog keeps her company as she writes stories at her desk or on long hikes in the woods. When she is not writing or hiking, Anita can be found visiting family in Japan and meeting fascinating people all over the world.
Anita is represented by Lori Steel at SteelWorksLiterary
MG Book Village - https://mgbookvillage.org/2021/01/07/interview-with-anita-yasuda-re-moto-makis-ghostly-mysteries-series/
Interview with Anita Yasuda re: MOTO MAKI’S GHOSTLY MYSTERIES series
January 7, 2021 ~ bookvillageadmin
Hi Anita, and welcome to MG Book Village! I’m so glad that we have a chance to talk about your upcoming series, Moto Maki’s Ghostly Mysteries, which releases in Summer 2021. Can you tell us about the first books being released in the series, and are there more books coming in this series?
I’m happy to be here, Kathie! I am so excited to chat with the MB Book Village community about my Hi-Lo middle-grade series. Currently, there are four books in Moto Maki’s Ghostly Mysteries. They are The Haunted Umbrella, The Cursed Cat, The Tiger Eye, and The Dream Eater. Each book highlights one ghost or yurei from Japanese folklore. Young readers will meet the harmless umbrella ghost or kasa obake that usually jumps around on one leg and enjoys surprising people. I’ve given the umbrella ghost a twist in this book to give readers chills. Other ghosts in the series are less suspenseful and scarier, such as the dream eater. I suggest readers turn on the lights before diving into this story.
I became fascinated with spooky Japanese tales as a student in Japan some thirty-plus years ago.
On away trips from school, we often stayed in old Japanese inns. My friends and I would try to scare each other. We imagined all sorts of creatures based on the sights, smells, and bumps in the night. It’s a wonder we got any sleep at all on those trips.
Can you give us four words to describe your main character?
Moto is a curious, capable, kind, and relatable kid whose love of treasure hunting accidentally leads him to ghosts.
The M stands for the mysteries that Moto and his best friend, Vijay, become entangled in.
The O stands for the odd supernatural creatures that follow Moto home.
The T stands for the terrific adventures Moto has while figuring out what each ghost wants.
The last O stands for the Japanese word obake that refers to ghosts, monsters, and other supernatural creatures in Japanese stories.
What is it about this series that you think will most appeal to young readers?
The series is action-packed with just enough adventure, suspense, and spook to keep readers hooked and pages turning. I think it will be the perfect series for children who like mysteries and ghosts. Because Moto Maki’s Ghostly Mysteries is a Hi-Lo, it will also appeal to reluctant readers in search of fast-moving text and those on the younger side of middle grade.
How did writing this book series differ from other series that you’ve written?
I have been fortunate to work on several early graphic novels and readers for children, but all of those were developed within their respective publishing houses. This series was different in that I pitched it directly to ABDO and was fortunate enough for an editor at ABDO to say yes. For the Moto Maki series, I dived deep into my past experiences living and working in Asia. I wanted the series to explore traditional ghosts but with two modern protagonists during the Festival of the Dead. The festival goes by other names. In Japan, it is called O-bon, and it usually begins in late July. In other parts of Asia, the English term for the festival is the Hungry Ghost Festival. During this time, ghosts, including those of ancestors, are said to return to the realm of the living. People leave out food and other offerings for the spirits.
How have you found time to incorporate writing into your daily life with the challenges of the pandemic?
I am an early riser. I wake at four am daily. After making a cup of tea, I begin my day with a meditation to center myself. Then, I might check correspondence or post something positive on my social media, but I limit my time spent on platforms to five minutes tops. Then, I plunge into my writing. Usually, I have several projects on the go. I find keeping a written agenda of all my assignments and due dates, edits, and correspondence essential for keeping on track and motivated. When the clock strikes seven, I get ready for a busy morning in the classroom, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Though the world is occupied by the pandemic, the best I can do is keep moving forward. I do this by following my routine and putting one foot or one letter in front of the other. I also think it’s important to take time away from work. So, after teaching, you will find me walking in the woods with my dog. It’s a time to clear my mind and connect with nature.
Can you give us one interesting tidbit about yourself that no one may think to ask you?
From the age of five, my family would spend each March break exploring independent bookstores all over Toronto. Some people might not think this a riveting holiday, but it began a lifelong love of books and inspired me to write.
Are you working on another writing project, and if so, is there any information you can share with us?
I have several projects that my agent is currently sending off into the world. These projects are dear to my heart. They celebrate my South Asian heritage and are rooted in my childhood experiences growing up the daughter of immigrants in North America.
I look forward to the day when readers will be able to hold these books in their hands.
Where can our readers go to find out more about you and your writing?
Thank you for this opportunity to speak with MG Book Village community.
The best place for readers to connect with me is on my website www.anitayasuda.com. If teachers are looking to book Zoom or Skype visits, this is also where they can contact me.
I am also on Twitter @anita_yasuda and Instagram @anitayasudabooks.
I really appreciate you taking some time to talk to me today, Anita, and best of luck with your new series.
Anita Yasuda is the author of many books for young readers. Her middle-grade Hi-Lo chapter book series, Moto Maki’s Ghostly Mysteries, releases in 2021. The books published by Magic Wagon, ABDO Publishing, are illustrated by Francesca Ficorilli. Anita graduated from Victoria College, University of Toronto. She then began working in early childhood education and educational publishing. After living all over the world, she now lives in Ontario, Canada. You can follow Anita on Twitter @anita_yasuda, Instagram @anitayasudabooks, or visit her at www.anitayasuda.com.
The Needle and the Knife - https://www.theneedleandtheknife.com/home/2024/8/6/10-questions-with-anita-yasuda
10 Questions with Anita Yasuda
10 questions with
Today is a very special day for author Anita Yasuda. Her latest book, Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life In The Mountains is officially out today! Illustrated Caldecott honor artist Yuko Shimizu and published by Clarion Books, this stunning picture book biography tells the story of Junko Tabei, the first woman to summit Mount Everest.
In addition to this newest book, Anita is also the author of many other books for young readers, including Diwali: A Festival of Lights , illustrated by Darshika Varma. Bollywood Beat, is forthcoming from Kids Can Press in 2026, and will be illustrated by Devika Oza She earned her honors degree in East Asian and South Asian studies at the University of Toronto, Victoria College, and her Montessori and Early Childhood qualifications at the AMI Institute in Vancouver, British Columbia. After graduating, Anita worked many jobs, from preschool teacher, sales clerk, caterer, firefighter (for one day), freelance magazine writer, and authoring books for educational publishers.
Anita lives in the rolling hills of Ontario with her family. Her dog keeps her company as she writes stories at her desk or on long hikes in the woods. When she is not writing or hiking, Anita can be found visiting family in Japan and meeting fascinating people all over the world.
Anita and Yuko will be celebrating the launch of their incredible book at the legendary children’s books story Books of Wonder in NYC this Sunday (September 29th) at 11:30 am. On October 19th, Anita will be at A Different Drummer Books in Burlington, Ontario with Anitha Rao-Robinson, author of Sari Sisters..
1. Were you a bookish child? Were there any particular books from your early years that have stuck with you in some way?
I grew up in a home with books stacked from floor to ceiling. If my mom and dad weren’t reading, discussing what they had just read from Austen to R.K. Narayan, or reading to me, we would be at the local library, which I loved visiting. The children’s librarian was a key figure in my reading journey, always dynamic and never failing to place a book into my hands. I remember thinking the library was the best place in the world, so much so that I created a library in my home, complete with lending cards inside the back cover of each book.
My love for books also sparked a passion for creating my own stories. I was particularly drawn to mysteries, and during my childhood, mysteries were synonymous with Nancy Drew, George, and Bess. Girl guide camp was not just an opportunity to learn practical skills but also a chance to spin stories around the campfire and investigate our cabins for any Nancy Drew-like hidden staircases. Spoiler alert- we never found anything hidden- unless it was the odd pop bottle, but we had fun, and those days of creating for the sheer joy of making have never left me.
2. Everyone comes to picture book writing via a unique path? Can you talk a little bit about your particular journey?
I studied East Asian and South Asian Studies at Victoria College, U of T, and spent much time reading children's literature in translation. I later trained as a Montessori and ECE teacher and discovered a love for reading picture books aloud.
While teaching, I began writing easy readers, early graphic novels, chapter books, and educational titles for publishers, including Capstone, Lerner and ABDO. Some of my favourite series I wrote for were about dinosaur detectives and a sports-loving practical joker. It was so much fun working on these books with the entire editorial team, and later, I enjoyed receiving science and history-based topics because I enjoy research.
After attending an SCBWI conference before COVID-19, I pursued writing picture books. I read as much as I could and wrote many awful drafts before finding a group of friends and critique partners. My critique group is called the Word Weavers, a name that came to me while I was quilting and thought about the similarities between piecing a quilting and constructing a story. I also took classes through the Highlights Foundation, the Writing Barn, and other online webinars.
Diwali: A Festival of Lights, words by Anita Yasuda, art by Darshika Varma, is available now from Random House Children's Books. Find it where ever you like to buy your books!
3. I’m always so curious about other creatives’ workspaces. Can you describe yours?
I work from my writer's shed at the back of my garden during the warmer months. I still need to give it a name. I should. It once was a chicken coop and the residence of an ornery raccoon, though truth be told- he was there first. After my husband and I evicted its resident, we began rebuilding it from scratch.
I love the light that warms the space, the smell of cedar, and the call of the cardinal. During the height of summer, snowball-like hydrangeas bloom around the shed, reflecting even more light. The odd brave rabbit or bold chipmunk has been known to visit me.
Some items that spark joy on my desk and walls include postcards from my travels, family photographs, and wire artwork from Knot and Needle. One piece from K & N has a partial book title—Ever Up—and the encouraging word—Read. During the winter, I write in any cozy space within my home and from Tokyo, where my daughter lives.
4. What’s the best hour of the day for writing?
I am most creative in this space early in the morning. I love writing around the edges of the day. I am usually up around four a.m. After a cup of tea, I write for a few hours. Then, I write in my head as I walk along the lake. This moving meditation is a great way to work through story problems, develop characters, or remember to breathe in and out.
5. Your book tells the incredible story of pioneering mountaineer Junko Tabei. How did you first learn about her? Do you have a personal relationship with mountains or climbing culture, or was it another aspect of her story that resonated with you?
Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life In The Mountains, words by Anita Yasuda, art by Yuko Shimizu, is available now from Clarion Books, and imprint of Harper Collins.
I learned about Junko Tabei as a high school student in Japan, so she has always been in the back of my mind. While I am not a mountaineer, I love hiking and have many friends who do climb. During the pandemic, I was still living in California, and one of my best friends was planning an Everest base camp climb. As she trained, I remembered Junko and began my research by contacting climbing organizations in Japan, former Junko colleagues, and acquaintances.
Junko's supportive family, drive to climb and be outdoors, and sheer will to put together a dynamic all-women team resonated with me. I love that Junko worked hard to achieve her goals through tremendous odds. The team struggled to find sponsors, and the amount of equipment and supplies they needed was staggering. That is also why they made so much of their gear; it was cheaper and allowed customization. Sponsors came much later; initially, prospective sponsors told the team to stay home. Aren't we glad they didn't?
6. Yuko Shimizu’s illustrations are so striking. They feel traditional in a way that strikes me as just-right for the content, but also so fresh and unlike anything that I’ve encountered recently in the picture book landscape. I especially loved how several of the spreads featured a bird’s eye view of the climbers, so that there were clouds between us and the characters-- it gave such a wonderful sense of what it might feel like to be up that high. Did you have a vision for the illustrations that you discussed with your editor, or was this an approach that originated from the art team?
Yuko Shimizu is a Caldecott honour illustrator. Her artwork is stunning. She has outdone herself from the textures on the kimono to the yarn in the children's hats and their expressive faces. When I turn the pages, I feel like I am climbing alongside Junko, and I hope the reader will feel this, too.
I left a few art notes for Yuko but mainly links to photographs of the actual expedition or Junko as a child. I believe we only spoke about the illustrations to confirm page turns. So, when I received the mockups, it was a complete surprise. I couldn't be happier with the book. I am honoured that Yuko took on this project. She is a treasure.
7. Do you have a favorite spread?
Choosing a favourite spread would be like picking a favourite child—impossible. I love the energy and sheer happiness of the copyright page. It shows a young Junko on top of her first mountain, followed by the warmth of the spread with her mother. It is so interesting how Yuko superimposed the mountains in Junko's head to communicate what Junko was dreaming of. The emotion on the avalanche page and the illustration of her family catching her gives me shivers each time I see it.
8. You’ve published several books at this point. What one piece of advice might you give to pre-published picture book authors?
One piece? How about one list 😊
Taking classes from reputable places, including the Highlights Foundation, is important. Many organizations offer scholarships, and I have taken advantage of them. There are organizations, including CANSCAIP, with a yearly conference where aspiring creators can hear from professional authors and illustrators at various career levels. The international organization SCBWI has virtual conferences, in-person webinars, and other opportunities through regional divisions. Canada-East is the SCBWI division that Ontario is in. I help with the BIPOC Chat, an encouraging space for creators identifying as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color.
I recommend joining or forming a critique group. Your critique group will be a great support to you on this journey. They are there to read your manuscripts and offer advice or comfort when rejections or feedback differ from what you hoped for. There are also online groups, such as the 12x12 picture book challenge. You can attend webinars and hear from industry professionals, including agents, editors, authors, and illustrators, to create or revise 12 manuscripts over a year. There is no pressure, and it is lots of fun. Lastly, believe in yourself and your work. There is a child waiting for your story.
9. If you could pitch any three titles as must-haves for every kid’s bookshelf, what would they be?
As so many fantastic picture books are released each year, I will name a few recent titles I've bought as gifts or added to my library. I loved Lion Queen, the story of Rasila Vadher, the first woman guardian of the last Asiatic Lions of India's Gir Forest by Rina Singh and illustrated by Tara Anand. Cameron Kids published the book, and children will enjoy reading this true story with its lyrical text and stunning illustrations.
I enjoyed reading A Bindi Can Be by Suma Subramaniam and Kamala M. Nair, published by Kids Can Press. I can imagine sharing this charming book about a young girl who learns about the significance of a bindi from her Paati, grandmother. Another favourite, which is also a window into Indian and South Asian cultures, is Chaiwala! by Priti Birla Maheshwari and Ashley Barron. This book celebrates a small moment in a young girl and her mother's Jaipur train trip. I have two upcoming picture books based on my childhood experiences and South Asian heritage. These books are Diwali: A Festival of Lights, illustrated by Darshika Varma, with Penguin Random House, 2024, and Bollywood Beat!, illustrated by Devika Oza, with Kids Can Press, coming 2026. I hope they will find a special place on children’s bookshelves, too.
10. Guest questions from Jennifer Harris:
"The pacing in a story of this kind is so important—how did you decide how much to include before and after the ascent of Mount Everest? Were there episodes you loved, but couldn’t include because they might disrupt the pacing? "
My first editor on this picture book was the lovely Harriet Low. With Harriet's guidance that we zeroed in on a few events after the ascent to show Junko's commitment to the environment through her work with HAT-J, which is the Himalayan Adventure Trust of Japan, an offshoot of the organization founded by Sir Edmund Hilary.
With HAT-J, Junko worked to raise money for an incinerator that is no longer in use. The team also planted apple trees and encouraged farming exchanges between Nepal and Japan, as well as a Carry In and Carry Out campaign in Japan. This program stressed the importance of leaving natural environments as you found them. The apple planting is in the story, but the rest of the information was better suited to back matter.
Later in life, Junko attended a master's program at Kyushu University, where her thesis and research focused on waste created by climbing expeditions on Everest. She measured and weighed what teams brought in and out, and interviewed teams from around the world. In the picture book, this information is in a spread showing Junko picking up trash on Everest with volunteers. The information on her university went into the timeline.
As I had worked in educational publishing for a decade, I had experience pulling out a few threads of information and knew I could expand more in the backmatter. After all, a picture book biography is an introduction, not an exhaustive inquiry into a person's life.
CONNECT WITH ANITA ONLINE:
Website www.anitayasuda.com
Instagram @anita.yasuda
The Writing Barn - https://thewritingbarn.com/success-story-with-anita-yasuda/
Success Story with Anita Yasuda
Posted on January 17, 2023
Cheers to author and Writing Barn success story, Anita Yasuda! She is celebrating her new book, UP, UP, UP!: JUNKO TABEI’S PIONEERING EVEREST CLIMB with illustrator Yuko Shimizu, out with Clarion/Harper Collins in 2024.
Anita workshopped the manuscript for her forthcoming book in Nancy Churnin’s Writing Barn class, Building a Bio That Breathes. For all of our upcoming classes, including sessions on writing picture book biographies, click here.
Please tell us a bit about your new book!
UP, UP, UP!: JUNKO TABEI’S PIONEERING EVEREST CLIMB with illustrator Yuko Shimizu is out with Clarion/Harper Collins in 2024. This lyrical nonfiction biography explores Junko’s indomitable spirit and examines her humanitarian and environmental work and legacy. Junko Tabei’s life inspires children because she taught us that we could achieve our goals just like her, one step at a time.
How long have you been writing/working on this specific project?
Research began in 2018 with Junko’s many autobiographies and watching interviews with Junko in Japanese and English. Then, I spoke with a member of the original Everest team! What a thrill that was. I talked to a woman who guided Junko on her Canadian hikes and spoke with Junko’s family through her. I talked to Junko’s colleagues at the non-profit humanitarian organization, the Himalaya Trust of Japan, which Junko helped found. Through this NPO, she worked directly with Nepalese villagers. One project saw members planting apple trees in Nepal so that women in villages that hikers passed through would have another income source. The group also oversaw the building of a waste disposal plant. Even then, Junko recognized that garbage on Everest was an issue.
Where did the seeds of the stories come from?
The seeds for Up Up, Up were planted when I was a High School student in Japan in the 1980s and learned about Junko Tabei. And later, when I taught in northern Japan in a town similar to where Junko grew up. Though I’m not a mountain climber, I am an avid hiker, and I credit people such as Junko for inspiring me to get outside and explore more.
What is your connection to The Writing Barn and/or Bethany Hegedus’ Courage to Create Community?
Over the years, I have taken several webinars and six-week classes at the Writing Barn. The online courses kept me sane during the pandemic by connecting me to a larger writing community. This book on Junko Tabei was workshopped with the incomparable Nancy Churnin in her ‘How to Write a Biography’ class. Nancy was an excellent teacher who made each class enjoyable and engaging. She also offered insightful feedback. I am still in contact with some writers I met in this class.
What takeaway will you carry far beyond this good news as you continue to build and develop your career?
Be willing to learn, take a chance, and be ready to share your work and listen to other creators. As I continue to create books for children, I look for ways to improve my writing skills, and online classes such as those offered by the WB are part of this journey.
Any advice for writers/creatives having trouble staying the course while pursuing their goals?
First and foremost, believe in yourself. It is a challenging business at any level. Write because you want to, love to, and can’t live without doing so. On a concrete level, I am a big fan of planners. I like physical planners and fill mine with inspirational quotes and pictures of places, flowers, and people. I write down small daily goals and larger yearly goals. And I write down steps about how I will achieve those goals. If you give up, your dreams won’t be realized. So, stay the course. Keep writing. I want to read your stories.
Who in the kidlit world are you currently reading, excited about forthcoming books?
I’m reading books by Alice Faye Duncan, Selina Alko, Jyoti Gopal, and Kyo Maclear.
I’m excited about Writing Barn alumni Meghan P. Browne’s picture book- The Bees of Notre Dame, fellow Red Fox Lit author Nydia Armendia-Sánchez’s Frieda Kahlo’s Crown, and my friend Karen M. Greenwald’s Mud Angels.
Where can readers order your book?
UP, UP, UP!: JUNKO TABEI’S PIONEERING EVEREST CLIMB is available for preorder wherever you buy books. It will be released in 2024. Interested writers, teachers, and librarians can follow my Instagram. This year I will post a behind-the-scenes look into my picture book research for Up, Up Up and some exciting travel reports from Japan and possibly Nepal.
Anita Yasuda lives in the rolling hills near Toronto, Ontario. She loves crafting lyrical fiction and nonfiction picture books.
After high school in Japan, she studied the history and culture of East Asia and South Asia at Victoria College, University of Toronto. She worked in educational publishing after graduating, writing books for children, from early readers to chapter books and everything in between.
When she isn’t writing, Anita loves to hike with her husband, play with her dog, Beau, and read! Anita is represented by Lori Steel at Red Fox Literary.
Her picture book, UP, UP, UP!: JUNKO TABEI’S PIONEERING EVEREST CLIMB, is set to debut in 2024 (Clarion/Harper Collins).
Maria Marshall - https://www.mariacmarshall.com/single-post/the-picture-book-buzz-interview-with-anita-yasuda
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The Picture Book Buzz - Interview with Anita Yasuda
Anita Yasuda earned her honors degree in East Asian and South Asian studies at the University of Toronto, Victoria College, and her Montessori and Early Childhood qualifications at the AMI Institute in Vancouver, British Columbia. After graduating, Anita worked many jobs, from preschool teacher, salesclerk, caterer, firefighter (for one day), freelance magazine writer, and authoring books for educational publishers.
Author photo of Anita Yasuda.
She lives in the rolling hills of Ontario with her family. Her dog, Lenny, keeps her company as she writes stories at her desk or on long hikes in the woods. When she is not writing or hiking, Anita can be found visiting family in Japan and meeting fascinating people all over the world.
Book cover - a mother and two kids celebrating the lights ofDiwali.
Anita is the author of Diwali: A Festival Of Joy, illustrated by Darshika Varma (8/2024), as well as many other books for young readers.
Her newest picture book, Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life In The Mountains, illustrated by Yuko Shimizu, is released on September 24th.
Welcome Anita,
Tell us a little about yourself. (Where/when do you write? How long have you been writing? What is your favorite type of book to write?)
I don’t remember a time when I was not making up stories. As a young child, I loved creating and directing plays like the character Carmen in Lights, Camera, Carmen! I had a big personality, for sure. Unlike Carmen, I never asked anyone to be a lamp! I was lucky to have sympathetic friends willing to act my plays out.
I continued writing while I taught in Japan and later in Canada. I wrote articles for parenting and Homeschooling magazines on subjects including stargazing and backyard archeology based on the midden we discovered when renovating our late-1800s home before writing my first book on outer space for Nomad Press in Vermont. They were a fantastic company to write for. I loved these books because they also incorporate crafts and activities. I used my teaching experience and experience as a mom and aunt to create engaging activities for children. I started pursuing picture book writing before the pandemic after attending an SCBWI event in Montreal, Canada.
I write early in the morning when the house is quiet. In the warmer months, I have a studio my husband built for me in the garden. It is a beautiful space where I can focus on writing. I enjoy crafting picture books, easy readers, chapter books, and verse novels; each genre offers a unique challenge.
It's wonderful to meet you, Anita! Who was your favorite author, illustrator, and/or your favorite book as a child?
Book cover - a badger eating jam on toast and holding a jam jar.
When I was very young, my favorite picture book was Bread and Jam for Francis by Rusell and Lillian Hoban. I still remember how holding that book felt- like a warm bowl of soup on a cold day.
In the story, Frances, a badger, is a picky eater, much like I was. My poor mother had to bring peanut butter sandwiches to restaurants for me. It is a wonder she didn't leave me with my grandmother.
I loved that Frances made up little songs to her food including:
"Jam for snacks and jam for meals
I know how a jam jar feels –
FULL ... OF ... JAM!"
The descriptions of Frances's best friend Albert's lunch made this fussy eater want to try more wonderful foods. A cup of custard and a lobster salad sandwich? Yes, please!
That's funny. I know many parents who did something similar or only went to restaurants that served fries. What was your inspiration or spark of interest for Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life In The Mountains? How did you first learn about Junko Tabei?
Book cover - a woman roped up and climbing up to the summit of Mount Everest.
My journey with Junko Tabei's story began in the 1980s. I was a high school student in Yokohama, Japan, participating in a Rotary Club school exchange program. It was a fantastic experience that changed the course of my life. I remember reading about Junko and her climbing adventures at that time.
When Junko was a child, she climbed with a school group at Nikko National Park. She was impressed with the smell of sulfur, the rocks, the view! It was so different from her home in Miharu, Fukushima. The experience inspired Junko to see, do, and climb more.
Likewise, I was able to do the same climb in high school, and it inspired a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Over the years, I read articles and news stories about Junko, especially her work with young people from triple disaster-hit Fukushima in 2011. As a former educator, I always look for inspiring figures like Junko Tabei to share with children.
I love that you shared her story with many who do know about her! Although I haven't climbed at Nikko National Park, I was fortunate to visit the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko and wander a bit in the Park, in 2009. The area is amazing. How long did it take from the first draft to publication for Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei?
I began working on my first draft of Up, Up, Ever Up! before the pandemic. I wrote those early drafts longhand in a notebook. As the story took shape, I thought about the manuscript and reviewed awkward story points during long walks around my local lake. The lake is my favourite place to work on my stories.
I revised the manuscript many times before signing up for a six-week biography class taught by author Nancy Churnin at the Writing Barn. The class was online, and I met many other writers for young children and adults during the class, some of whom I still call friends. Nancy was an excellent and generous instructor. She offered insightful feedback, which I incorporated into my manuscript. I also shared a version with writing friends and the Word Weavers, my critique group.
Once I had a version I was satisfied with, I sent it to my agent, Lori Steel. We worked on it a little more before sending it to a small group of editors. I am unsure exactly when we heard from Harriet Low at Clarion, now part of Harper Collins. I was thrilled, of course, when my agent called with the good news that Harriet had offered on the manuscript. We worked together on the manuscript, but when Harriet left, Kate O'Sullivan became my new editor. Kate and I did additional work on the manuscript before it was shared with illustrator Yuko Shimizu.
How long did it take to find or create the wonderful refrain which became part of the title of Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei?
Creating the refrain was not that difficult. It was probably one of the first ideas I had for the book. I believe I came up with it while walking. Honestly, I think I have my best ideas while in motion.
Nice! It's a great refrain and I can see how it helped shape the structure of the book. What was the toughest aspect of writing Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei? And what was the most fun part of writing this book?
The most challenging part of writing about Junko Tabei was the research. Junko authored many books about her climbing experiences. While I can read Japanese, it is not my first, second, or even third language. It takes me a long time to read a page. So, I focused on two autobiographies, read countless newspaper and magazine articles from Japan, the United States, and Nepal, and watched many interviews with her. Then, I reached out to her colleagues, who generously shared their memories of her.
The most fun part of writing this book has been meeting Junko's colleagues and visiting Nikko National Park, where Junko climbed as an elementary student.
I'm impressed you can read Japanese! It's so cool you got to meet her colleagues. When you first saw Yuko Shimizu’s illustrations did anything surprise or amaze you? Which is your favorite spread, or one you really like?
I was amazed by Yuko Shimizu's illustrations and feel very fortunate that she agreed to illustrate this manuscript. She has brought so much depth, heart, and layers to this story. I know Yuko researched intensely for this book, and it shows in all the minute details, from the team working on their gear and Junko's mother's kimono to the individual faces of the Nepali children and the harrowing avalanche scene, which still takes my breath away. I don't have a favorite scene. They are all fantastic. I could frame each spread.
I agree. Each illustration is stunning and a work of art! How did writing Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei differ from others you’ve written?
In educational publishing, the publisher identifies a need in the market. Their editors put together a list of titles attached to specific series. So, there could be a series on the States, for example, natural disasters, a historical period, or a more general topic such as inventors. Then, the publisher approaches the writers to see if they will write one or more titles within a series. So, you do not come up with the topic.
When working in trade, you decide who, what, when, and where you want to write about. I wanted to write about Junko Tabei, so I began researching her.
However, there are some similarities between educational and trade publishing. Authors should consider why this event, person, or topic would appeal to a child, just like an educational editorial team would before commissioning a series. Authors might also want to consider how educators could use their book and story layers to make it more appealing. When writing my Taylor Swift biography, I didn't think about unique selling points, but they are essential in trade.
Interesting. Thank you for sharing the differences. What is one of the most fun or unusual places where you’ve written a manuscript?
I love writing while walking around my local lake and through the maple sugarbush. It is a peaceful walk and the best place to work through story problems.
I also work in my writer's shed, which my husband built for me a few years ago. Sometimes, chipmunks visit me, but usually, it is just me and my dog, Lenny. Lenny seems very keen to contribute to my manuscripts. LOL I need to write a picture book featuring him.
But when my daughter was much younger, I learned to write a few lines while waiting in the school parking lot, at Kumon, during swim lessons, and when the house was quiet- those stolen moments before everyone else was awake.
I hope Lenny gets his own book or a feature role in a book, one day. Is there anything special you want your readers to know about Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei ?
I hope readers feel inspired to reach for their dreams because they can achieve them if they set their minds to them, one step at a time, UP UP—EVER UP!
Wonderful inspiration! Are there any projects you are working on now that you can share a tidbit with us?
I have a few more projects coming over the next few years. I have a project on Bollywood dancing with Kids Can Press coming out in 2026. The pandemic delayed this book, but I'm excited that it has a talented illustrator, Devika Oza, attached to the project. Devika's vibrant illustrations perfectly match my lyrical text. I can't wait to share the cover with everyone.
I also have other unannounced projects in the works, and I'm super excited about a 2025 poetry anthology project that includes a sports poem about an athlete I've long admired.
Intriguing! We will definitely need to keep our eyes open for more books from you. What is your favorite National Park or Forest, regional park, or city park (anywhere in the world)? Or the one you’re longing to visit. Why?
Photo of Algonquin Park.
I lived in California for ten years and was lucky enough to have visited many state parks. We also drove across the United States roughly 16 times. I loved the incredible scenery of the Arches in Utah. Colorado was also a favorite part of the drive, with its stunning scenery and old mining towns. I am back in Ontario, where I love hiking in Algonquin Park. What I love about Algonquin is that it brings back memories of walking here with my father, who has passed away. My husband and I usually visit the park in autumn, and it is extra beautiful during this season.
Thank you, Anita for sharing about yourself and your new picture book with us.
Book cover - a woman roped up and climbing up to the summit of Mount Everest.
Be sure to come back Friday for the Perfect Picture Book #PPBF post on Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life In The Mountains.
For more information about Anita Yasuda, or to contact her:
*If you are available, check out Anita's virtual and live book launch or other reading events:
Virtual launch with author Nadia Salomon on September 24th. @nadiasalomon.author DM for Evite.
Flier - advertising a Storytime Sprint on 9/25 with a photo of Anita and the book cover
Storytime Sprint on September 25th. Registration link: @storytimesprint
Highlights Instagram live September 27th at noon EST. Link: https://www.instagram.com/highlightsfound/?hl=en
Flier- Books of Wonder advertisement for book launch by Anita Yasuda and Yuko Shimizu on 9/29/2024..
Book Launch with illustrator Yuko Shimizu. September 29th at 11:30AM ET at the Books of Wonder NY 17th Street Location
Reach New Heights with This Storytime!
Learn all about the first woman to summit Mount Everest in Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life in the Mountains, the gorgeous new picture book by ANITA YASUDA & illustrated by Caldecott Honor artist YUKO SHIMIZU! In this trailblazing title, we meet Junko Tabei, who dreamed of a life climbing mountains. But men refused to climb with her. Sponsors told her to stay home. And gloves were not made to fit her hands. However, Junko was eager and unstoppable and wouldn’t let these obstacles get in her way!
Climber, climate activist, mother, and inspiration.
Growing up in Japan, Junko Tabei (1939-2016) was eager to scale mountains even as a child. From her first climb of Mount Chausu at age 10, Junko knew this life was for her. As an adult, she often heard the message that mountains weren't for women, that she should stay home with her family. A determined Junko "became a mother who climbedforher daughter" and set an ambitious goal--becoming the first woman to climb Mount Everest. "Ganbarimasu!" she and her fellow female climbers say, a Japanese word translated as "We will give it our best." With the help of Tibetan Sherpas, an all-female team of climbers, and her own ingenuity using kimonos to create gear, she reached the top, despite a devastating avalanche. But this would not be Junko's last mountain to climb, nor her last trip to Everest. Concerned about the environmental cost of the litter left on the famous mountain and the future of the Tibetan people, she gave back and inspired through words and deeds--cleaning the slopes and planting trees. Yasuda's captivating, poetic prose weaves powerful metaphors and cultural touchstones into this powerful biography. Shimizu's dreamy illustrations layer calligraphy-brushed outlines in India ink with digital color to immerse readers in blue skies, pink blossoms, and white mountain snow--Junko's home.
A joyous celebration of a life built on resilient dreams. (author's note, timeline, glossary, bibliography, source notes)(Picture-book biography. 4-9)
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2024 Kirkus Media LLC
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"Yasuda, Anita: UP, UP, EVER UP!" Kirkus Reviews, 1 Aug. 2024. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A802865078/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=6fa1689f. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life in the Mountains.
By Anita Yasuda. Illus. by Yuko Shimizu.
Sept. 2024. 48p. Clarion, $19.99 (9780063242418). Gr. 1-3.
796.522.
Using simple yet lyrical text, Yasuda chronicles the life of Junko Tabei, a Japanese mountain climber and the first woman to scale Mt. Everest. Junko loved hiking as a child and as an adult joined a mountaineering club in Tokyo. She led a mostly female expedition to Mt. Everest and remained a passionate climber throughout her life, tackling peaks in numerous countries and working to preserve mountain landscapes. In addition to her climbing accomplishments, Yasuda recounts many lesser-known details; for example, Tabei crafted some of her own equipment because standard sizes for men were too large. Shimizu's colorful artwork (digitally enhanced India ink and Japanese calligraphy brushwork) employs a broad color palette, accurately depicting vistas in Japan and Nepal. The illustrations often portray dramatic scenes from the narrative-- particularly the avalanche that buried Junko's tent just below Everest's peak, her subsequent arduous climb up a final narrow ridge, and her triumphant pose at the summit. Smoothly written and appended with additional resources, this will appeal to adventure enthusiasts and women's history buffs.--Kay Weisman
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2024 American Library Association
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Weisman, Kay. "Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life in the Mountains." Booklist, vol. 120, no. 21, July 2024, pp. 70+. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A804615954/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=9901f9fe. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Explore Comets and Asteroids! With 25 Great Projects
Anita Yasuda, illus. by Bryan Stone. Nomad (IPG, dist.), $14.95 trade paper (96p) ISBN 978-1-61930-515-1
Opening with a nearly 70-million-year timeline of notable events involving comets and asteroids, this guidebook, part of the expansive Explore Your World! series, smoothly blends history and science. Amid comics-style illustrations featuring a young astronaut and her robot, Yasuda clearly explains key astronomical concepts. Readers are encouraged to use the scientific method while tackling some two dozen projects, which include making asteroid cookies, creating a "science scroll" to jot down observations as the "earliest sky watchers" did, and writing imaginary tweets from the New Horizons probe ("Comet 2014 MU69 has no atmosphere, but plenty of good vibes!" suggests the cartoon robot). A glossary and links to online resources round out a focused look at these celestial objects, which might spur some stargazing on readers' parts. Ages 7-10. (July)
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2017 PWxyz, LLC
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"Explore Comets and Asteroids! With 25 Great Projects." Publishers Weekly, vol. 264, no. 25, 19 June 2017, p. 114. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A496643954/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=dcb163d5. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
YASUDA, Anita. Explore Greek Myths!: With 25 Projects. illus. by Mike Crosier. 96p. further reading. glossary. index. websites. Nomad. Sept. 2016. Tr $19.95. ISBN 9781619304468; pap. $14.95. ISBN 9781619304505.
Gr 2-5--A jam-packed, informative title on ancient Greek myths. Yasuda isn't just retelling the old familiar tales. Instead, she has placed the myths in context so that each chapter is a different exploration of ancient Greek life and culture. The actual stories, like that of King Midas, are confined to a small sidebar within the "Monsters and Mayhem" chapter. Each section ends with one or more projects (many STEM related, like one that has readers experiment with levers) that revisit some part of the text. Most are accessible and don't require adult supervision. Two, however, are more complicated: making a papier-mache votive and baking cookies in the shape of the Greek isles. The illustrations are cartoon-like, befitting the airy and colorful design. Throughout the pages, highlighted words (in blue) are defined. VERDICT An additional purchase for libraries, but useful for classrooms studying ancient Greek history and mythology.--Marie Drucker, Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library, NY
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2016 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/
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Drucker, Marie. "Yasuda, Anita. Explore Greek Myths!: With 25 Projects." School Library Journal, vol. 62, no. 10, Oct. 2016, p. 134. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A466167055/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=52199bc7. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Astronomy: Cool Women in Space. By Anita Yasuda. Illus. by Lena Chandhok. 2015. 112p. lib. ed., $19.95 (9781619303263); paper, $9.95 (9781619303300). 520.
Technology: Cool Women Who Code. By Andi Diehn. Illus. by Lena Chandhok. 2015. 112p. lib. ed., $19.95 (9781619303218); paper, $9.95 (9781619303256). 005.
The women featured in this Girls in Science series share more than a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math. Starting at a young age all were discouraged from pursuing paths in STEM fields. These books seek to rectify this oversight by encouraging today's girls to consider special topics in science and technology. Each begins with a brief definition and historical overview of the topic before focusing on the lives, careers, successes, and influences of three distinguished women scientists or engineers. Astronomy: Cool Women in Space highlights Nancy Grace Roman, also known as the "mother of Hubble" for her role in the development of the Hubble Space Telescope; Maggie Aderin-Pocock, a black British planetary scientist, educator, and presenter on the show The Sky at Night-, and Andrea Ghez, an astronomer and physicist who researches black holes. Technology: Cool Women Who Code looks at Grace Hopper, a pioneer in developing computer languages; Shaundra Bryant Daily, an African American electrical engineer who studied affective computing and created coding programs for girls; and Jean Yang, who emigrated from China and eventually became an innovative computer scientist. Numerous sidebars include further background information, mini profiles of more prominent females in STEM, and thought-provoking questions. A worthy addition to STEM collections.--Angela Leeper
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2015 American Library Association
http://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/publishing/booklist/
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Leeper, Angela. "Girls in Science Series. Nomad. Gr. 4-7." Booklist, vol. 111, no. 22, 1 Aug. 2015, p. 54. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A428997912/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=678bc359. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
The 12 Most Amazing American Battles. By Anita Yasuda. 2015. 32p. illus. lib. ed., $28.50 (9781632350060). 973.
The 12 Most Amazing American Inventions. By Rebecca Rowell. 2015. 32p. illus. lib. ed., $28.50 (9781632350084). 608.
The 12 Most Amazing American Monuments and Symbols. By Anita Yasuda. 2015. 32p. illus. lib. ed., $28.50 (9781632350091). 973.
The 12 Most Amazing American Natural Wonders. By Rebecca Rowell. 2015. 32p. illus. lib. ed., $28.50 (9781632350114). 398.
The Amazing America series introduces readers to interesting people, events, and symbols that relate to the U.S. Each book focuses on 12 particular items. American Battles looks at battles from Lexington and Concord to Iwo Jima, excluding the more controversial wars from Vietnam to Iraq. The paintings and war photos extend the text. American Inventions contains some expected discoveries, like the light bulb and airplane, but Kevlar, computers, and blue jeans are also covered. American Monuments and Symbols discusses the flag, the presidential seal, Americas bird (the bald eagle), and several different monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial and Mount Rushmore. America's Natural Wonders takes readers on a tour from the Grand Canyon to Niagara Falls with stops along the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains, among others. Each of the books' 12 subjects gets a few paragraphs of text and several sidebars. Fact sheets, illustration captions, glossaries, and further instructional material round out the treatment. There's not enough information here for reports; rather, this is a quick intro to familiar names on the American landscape.--Ilene Cooper
Also recommended from this series:
* The 12 Most Amazing American Cities (9781632350077).
* The 12 Most Amazing American Myths and Legends (9781632350107).
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2015 American Library Association
http://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/publishing/booklist/
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Cooper, Ilene. "Amazing America series. Amicus/12-story. Gr. 3-6." Booklist, vol. 111, no. 19-20, 1 June 2015, p. 80. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A421080354/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=339bd0d8. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Fascinating myths, witty jokes, eye-catching art, games, science projects, and a coherent narrative history fill the pages of this informative volume, which presents multifaceted facts about the Nordic people based in Scandinavia before the twelfth century. Each of the six chapters presents a thematic discussion paired with projects exploring Norse mythology, period technology, Viking warriors, comparative mythology, and lasting influences in the modern world, some of which are surprising. The Bluetooth symbol, for instance, is based on Nordic runes. The projects are engaging, and all rely on commonly available materials, such as egg cartons, empty juice boxes, or jars with lids. The graphics-heavy page layouts nicely balance the content, vocab explanations, cartoon illustrations (though one depicts Native Americans in a stereotypical light), and sidebars, which makes it easy to negotiate the different categories of presentation. Clear instructions for accessing supplementary web content make expanding the scope of the text a breeze. This engaging entry in the Explore Your World series is a great choice for the classroom and an entertaining introduction to world history.--Francisca Goldsmith
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2015 American Library Association
http://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/publishing/booklist/
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Goldsmith, Francisca. "Explore Norse Myths! With 25 Great Projects." Booklist, vol. 112, no. 7, 1 Dec. 2015, pp. 40+. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A437058929/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=7ebdc621. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Explore Natural Resources! With 25 Great Projects. By Anita Yasuda. Illus. by Jennifer Keller. May 2014.96p. Nomad, paper, $13.95 (9781619302235). 670. Gr. 2-4.
Twenty-five hands-on activities explore the broad and accessible concept of natural resources. Conservation is the guiding theme of the book, and global warming, desertification, and water pollution are explained in careful detail. Yasuda divides natural resources into broad topics including air, water, soil, minerals, and energy, and she emphasizes the importance of renewability. The inception of the national parks system and pioneering environmentalists are mentioned, as well as legislation geared toward curbing environmental degradation. A "Then and Now" feature highlights, with startling statistics, how our current consumption-minded society differs from people of the past. Words to know, listed in the sidebar of each chapter, are boldface in the text, underscored in the illustrations, and defined in a glossary. Activities follow each chapter and include art projects, experiments, building plans, and challenges. A great primer on a timely topic for the classroom, library, or home bookshelf. --Erin Anderson
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2014 American Library Association
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Anderson, Erin. "Explore Natural Resources! With 25 Great Projects." Booklist, vol. 110, no. 18, 15 May 2014, p. 47. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A371841591/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=267ee6e0. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
YASUDA, Anita. Explore Natural Resources!: With 25 Great Projects, illus. by Jennifer Keller. 96p. chart, diag. further reading, glossary, index, websites. Nomad. 2014. Tr $13.95. ISBN 9781619302235.
Gr 3-6--This offering in the series is divided into six chapters, each of which describes a natural resource and explains the importance of preventing it from being depleted. Chapters cover air, soil, minerals, water, energy, and conservation. Each section includes words to know, famous people and terms, and several activities (purifying water, growing a crystal), most requiring set-up but a few of which are pencil and paper only. Yasuda effectively taps readers' background knowledge to make concepts seem more familiar ("You've probably seen movies with knights holding up enormous shields to protect themselves. Ozone is like a shield, but it's not made of metal."). Though children likely won't pick this one up on their own due to the black-and-white illustrations and the workbook-like design, savvy teachers will pick up some helpful activities and lesson plans.--Jane Hebert, Glenside Public Library District, Glendale Heights, IL
Hebert, Jane
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2014 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
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Hebert, Jane. "Yasuda, Anita. Explore Natural Resources!: With 25 Great Projects." School Library Journal, vol. 60, no. 7, July 2014, p. 122. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A373035183/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=97f9e1ad. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Explore Native American Cultures! With 25 Great Projects
Anita Yasuda, author
Jennifer K. Keller
Nomad Press
2456 Christian St.
White River Junction, VT 05001
Independent Publishers Group (distribution)
814 N. Franklin St., Chicago, IL 60610
www.nomadpress.com www.ipgbook.com
9781619301603 $12.95 www.amazon.com
"Explore Native American Cultures!" is an enrichment text and workbook for students of Native American studies ages 6-9. Containing 25 diverse hands on projects to help explore different Native American cultures and contributions, "Explore Native American Cultures!" presents interesting factual information on Native American groups from 6 main areas: The Northeast Woodlands, the Southeast, the Southwest and Mesoamerica, the Great Plains, the Pacific Northwest, and the Arctic. Black and white illustrations and gray highlighted sidebars present additional information in handy formats, such as "Then & Now" or "Words to Know," and "Just For Laughs." Interesting project directions include make your own Katsina doll, Mayan glyphs, bear claw necklace, soft twine bag, and many more. A timeline, introduction, and glossary complete this handy Native American crafts and studies text for elementary age students.
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2013 Midwest Book Review
http://www.midwestbookreview.com/cbw/index.htm
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"The Native American Shelf." Children's Bookwatch, May 2013. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A331005658/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=cb7d569a. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
YASUDA, Anita. Explore Native American Cultures!: With 25 Great Projects. illus, by Jennifer K. Keller. 90p. chron, glossary. index, map. websites. Nomad. 2013. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-61930-160-3.
Gr 3-6--This lively and informative introduction is divided into six regions (Northeast Woodlands, Southeast, Southwest and Mesoamerica, Great Plains, Pacific Northwest, and Arctic). Each section provides a concise overview of the tribes, their food, housing, ceremonies, clothing, and games. There are roughly five kid-friendly activities per region, ranging from shell rattles to Mayan glyphs, a bear-claw necklace to Inuit sculpture. A "Words to Know" box appears on almost every page, explaining highlighted words that are used in the text. Although the format is somewhat busy, the scattered sections of text and black-and-white drawings are relevant and fun. "Then and Now," "Wow" facts, and an occasional, playful "Just for Laughs" box, complement the overall package. (What has hundreds of ears but can't hear a thing? A crop of corn!) And children will learn that the phrase "to bury the hatchet" (meaning to make peace with) likely comes from literally putting one's war tools underground. A wide range of ages will be able to take something away from this entertaining and useful title.--Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library
Bryant, Madeline J.
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2013 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
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Bryant, Madeline J. "Yasuda, Anita. Explore Native American Cultures!: With 25 Great Projects." School Library Journal, vol. 59, no. 8, Aug. 2013, p. 130. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A339017572/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=75dc9f88. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
YASUDA, Anita. Explore the Wild West!: With 25 Great Projects. illus, by Alex Kim. 92p. bibliog, glossary, index, maps. websites. Nomad. 2012. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-1-936749-71-3.
Gr 3-6--Despite the somewhat busy, black-and-white layout, this book is entertaining and informative. Seven chapters cover the lay of the land, gold-rash miners, moving west, pioneer life, frontier towns, Native people, and cowboys. Highlighted terms and a "words to know" section on each page will appeal to teachers and other educators. Cartoon illustrations, though rather simple, are plentiful and fun. Crafts and activities range from assignmentlike fare (creating a Lewis and Clark map) to cooking "spotted pup pudding" and creating cowboy chaps from grocery bags. Adult supervision is recommended for anything involving a stove, cutting, or the Internet. Brief biographies highlight a wide range of multicultural figures, including Annie Oakley, Crazy Horse, cowboy Bill Pickett, mountaineer James Beckwourth, and "Stagecoach Mary." Overall, this is a useful and engaging introductory overview of the Wild West.--Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library
* Excellent in relation to other titles on the same subject or in the same genre. Tr Hardcover trade binding; RTE Reinforced trade binding; PLB Publisher's library binding; BD Board Book; pap. paperback; CIP Cataloging in publication.
Bryant, Madeline J.
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2012 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/
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Bryant, Madeline J. "Yasuda, Anita. Explore the Wild West!: With 25 Great Projects." School Library Journal, vol. 58, no. 8, Aug. 2012, p. 116. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A298293377/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=98ab974b. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Explore the Wild West! With 25 Great Projects. By Anita Yasuda. Illus. by Alex Kim. 2012. 96p. Nomad, paper, $12.95 (9781936749713). 978.02. Gr. 2-4.
Part teacher's manual, part student workbook, this resource invites early elementary kids to learn about the Wild West through hands-on projects and activities. Chapters are arranged loosely in chronological order, and offer high-interest text, cartoony illustrations, and relevant projects. No aspect of the Old West is neglected, and particular topics include geography, Native American cultures, miners and boomtowns, cowboys and cattle trails, and pioneer life. Yasuda shows off her Montessori training in conceiving the projects, most of which--setting up a station to pan for gold, for example, and building a sod house--are perfectly suited to student self-direction and appeal especially to kinesthetic and spatial capacities. The book is also extremely teacher-friendly, thanks to clear directions and engaging images, and the materials for the projects are readily available in most classrooms.--Erin Anderson
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2012 American Library Association
http://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/publishing/booklist/
Source Citation
Source Citation
MLA 9th Edition APA 7th Edition Chicago 17th Edition Harvard
Anderson, Erin. "Explore the Wild West! With 25 Great Projects." Booklist, vol. 108, no. 22, 1 Aug. 2012, p. 85. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A299886435/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=04df3133. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Good, even great at times, generally useful!
YASUDA, Anita
Justin Bieber (Remarkable People Series)
AV[V.sup.2] by Weigl Educational Publishers, 2012 24p. Gr. 4-6. 978-1-61690-667-2. Hdbk. $25.70 ea.
This is another volume in the Remarkable People Series of book by AV[V.sup.2]. a series of interactive, biography books.
The book has eight 2-page spread chapters which cover a variety of topics related to Bieber's early life, his movement into the music field and his achievements and successes. There is also a chapter on writing a biography, a timeline, a table of contents, a glossary and an index. Lame colourful captioned photographs accompany the text and sidebars and coloured boxes provide extra information.
This is one of the AV[v.sup.2] interactive books which has an accompanying website. Once you log in the Book Code that is given at the front of the book you will be able to: listen to sections of the book as it is read aloud, watch informative games, complete activity sheets that can be run off and do hands-on experiments. This should be a popular feature with today's technology savvy students.
This book provides a brief introduction to Justin Bieber's life for the young reader. For ardent fans they will want more information some of which they will find when they visit the website. For those, however, who want a more in-depth look at the life of the young pop star they will have to look elsewhere. A good introductory title.
Please note: Some tables or figures were omitted from this article.
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2012 Resource Links
http://www.atcl.ca
Source Citation
Source Citation
MLA 9th Edition APA 7th Edition Chicago 17th Edition Harvard
Pennell, Victoria. "Justin Bieber (Remarkable People Series)." Resource Links, vol. 17, no. 3, Feb. 2012, p. 18. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A282427426/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=7f22bd2d. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
"Yasuda, Anita: UP, UP, EVER UP!" Kirkus Reviews, 1 Aug. 2024. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A802865078/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=6fa1689f. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Weisman, Kay. "Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life in the Mountains." Booklist, vol. 120, no. 21, July 2024, pp. 70+. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A804615954/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=9901f9fe. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
"Explore Comets and Asteroids! With 25 Great Projects." Publishers Weekly, vol. 264, no. 25, 19 June 2017, p. 114. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A496643954/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=dcb163d5. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Drucker, Marie. "Yasuda, Anita. Explore Greek Myths!: With 25 Projects." School Library Journal, vol. 62, no. 10, Oct. 2016, p. 134. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A466167055/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=52199bc7. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Leeper, Angela. "Girls in Science Series. Nomad. Gr. 4-7." Booklist, vol. 111, no. 22, 1 Aug. 2015, p. 54. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A428997912/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=678bc359. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Cooper, Ilene. "Amazing America series. Amicus/12-story. Gr. 3-6." Booklist, vol. 111, no. 19-20, 1 June 2015, p. 80. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A421080354/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=339bd0d8. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Goldsmith, Francisca. "Explore Norse Myths! With 25 Great Projects." Booklist, vol. 112, no. 7, 1 Dec. 2015, pp. 40+. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A437058929/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=7ebdc621. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Anderson, Erin. "Explore Natural Resources! With 25 Great Projects." Booklist, vol. 110, no. 18, 15 May 2014, p. 47. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A371841591/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=267ee6e0. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Hebert, Jane. "Yasuda, Anita. Explore Natural Resources!: With 25 Great Projects." School Library Journal, vol. 60, no. 7, July 2014, p. 122. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A373035183/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=97f9e1ad. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
"The Native American Shelf." Children's Bookwatch, May 2013. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A331005658/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=cb7d569a. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Bryant, Madeline J. "Yasuda, Anita. Explore Native American Cultures!: With 25 Great Projects." School Library Journal, vol. 59, no. 8, Aug. 2013, p. 130. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A339017572/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=75dc9f88. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Bryant, Madeline J. "Yasuda, Anita. Explore the Wild West!: With 25 Great Projects." School Library Journal, vol. 58, no. 8, Aug. 2012, p. 116. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A298293377/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=98ab974b. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Anderson, Erin. "Explore the Wild West! With 25 Great Projects." Booklist, vol. 108, no. 22, 1 Aug. 2012, p. 85. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A299886435/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=04df3133. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
Pennell, Victoria. "Justin Bieber (Remarkable People Series)." Resource Links, vol. 17, no. 3, Feb. 2012, p. 18. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A282427426/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=7f22bd2d. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.