Kamishibai

Momotaro, the Peach Boy A Kamishibai Story from Japan by Tiffany Hartzel Pre-K teacher and Mimi Rice, Professor
Momotaro, the Peach Boy, from Kamishibai for Kids, is a story that is sure to entertain students of all ages. Storytelling is an important part of pre-school and kindergarten curriculum and kamishibai offers a wonderful way to introduce Japanese folktales and stories to young children. Momotaro is a popular figure from Japanese folklore, a baby who sprang out of a peach. Momotaro became a super hero who saves the people of his village from the evil demons who terrorize his community. Momotaro and his band of trusty friends save the day. It is suitable for ages 3 and up. Following the reading, the following themes can be discussed with students:
Personal responsibility
Using one's abilities to help others
Cooperation
Author, Miyoko Matsutani and illustrator, Eigoro Futamata have created a beautiful version of this classic story which can be used in a classroom setting in a variety of ways. Younger children can enjoy listening to the story and answering questions. Older students can practice oral reading and cooperation as well as develop confidence and poise as storytellers, each student taking a turn reading one of the storyboard cards.

The Bamboo Princess A KAMISHIBAI PLAY FROM JAPAN Literature Unit Review - Mark Trainor – Chartiers Valley School District (5th Grade Teacher)
The Bamboo Princess (also known as The Shining Princess) is a very old story (9th – 10th century) that is widely regarded in Japanese schools. The tale explains how Mt. Fuji got its name. This particular literature unit is designed to present the story as a kamishibai play. The kamishibai art form combines oral story-telling with large story picture cards.
The literature unit is available from Kamishibai for Kids online at http://www.kamishibai.com/. It contains an introduction to kamishibai by providing a working definition along with a brief history of the art form (Kamishibai stories evolved from a form of itinerant street storytelling art which was popular in Japan in the 1950s). Additionally, the literature unit contains cultural background information, story vocabulary, genre information, discussion questions, and extension activities. Some extension activities include the making of hinashikishi (framed paper dolls), creating kamishibai stories, and learning about Japanese writing including kanji, hiragana, and katakana.
The strength of this literature unit is that it is adaptable across many grade levels. I would recommend this literature unit for grades three through eight. The following are some example lesson ideas and/or tips:
• Third grade students might need extensive pre-reading lessons to solidify story vocabulary and understand Japanese culture and traditions. Targeted guided reading would follow.
• A fifth grade reading lesson might draw parallels to the oral story-telling of the Native Americans through a guided reading scenario. Then students could create their own kamishibai plays using the Native American theme.
• Eighth grade students might focus more on Japan’s history, culture, and written language.
There is so much to choose from in this literature unit. Creating lessons would not be difficult.
Finally, step-by-step direction for presenting these picture cards is provided. The large, colorful pictures and oral interpretation suggestions provide the possibility of a very engaging story. Before and after each story card paragraph, the author gives suggestions for voice tone and reading speed. This is quite helpful.
One drawback is that only three discussion questions are provided. This is probably not problematic for an experienced teacher, but might provide challenges for a less experienced one.
Overall, I would highly recommend this literature unit for any integrated language arts or social studies classroom. It can be used with large group or small group instruction and provides many venues for curriculum linking and integration.