Yoshiko Uchida Book

Makoto, The Smallest Boy: A Story of Japan

This book is written by Yoshiko Uchida and illustrated by Akihito Shirakawa. This is a charming story of a boy growing up in modern Japan. Makota was the youngest in his family and the smallest in his class. He always seemed to be on the losing team and he was the slowest runner. Makota was very discouraged until his neighbor and friend Mr. Imai helped him to realize that he was a talented artist. Makota entered one of his best paintings into his school's Hobby Show where it won "Best in Class." He finally found something he was really good at and in which he could come in first. I think this story is a good way to relate to children about finding out what their gifts and talents are. The story also shows how one must practice his or her skills in order to become better at whatever he or she is trying to do.

Yoshiko Uchida has written many books about Japan for children. Some of her books include:

Takao and Grandfather, The Jar of Dreams, The Bracelet, Two Foolish Cats, The Birthday Visitor, The Terrible Leak, and The Dancing Kettle and Other Japanese Folk Tales.