Ishi: Simple Tips from a Solid Friend by A. Yabuki

Abstract

Yabuki, Akiko. Ishi: Simple Tips from a Solid Friend. POW!, 2016.

The motivational picture book, Ishi, written and illustrated by Akiko Yabuki, with art direction from Yuko Brown, demonstrates to the reader how to cope with everyday feelings and experiences. The main character, Ishi, is a rock who encounters situations in the story that all readers would likely experience and shows the reader how he manages them.

Ishi is illustrated using distinct real life photographs that specifically match the text, making it an appropriate text for all readers. Ishi is found in numerous familiar settings throughout the book that the reader would recognize: a road, a pile of leaves, a plate of food. The author informs readers that everyone has “gloomy” days and educates them on methods to use to get through the dark days. For example, when Ishi feels hopeless, he surrounds himself with dreamers.

The storybook is simple, yet engaging as it encourages the reader to reflect on the situations that Ishi is in and develop coping strategies to deal with them. By the end of the book, readers should have a calm presence, and a toolbox full of techniques to use when they themselves are in difficult situations.

Ishi is a book that elementary school libraries and teachers should have. The limited text and language used clearly describes each illustration so even young children can read this book. Children who are upset or sad would benefit from reading this book. This inspirational picture book also can give children ideas as to how they can handle their situations.

Readers could find their own Ishi rock and photograph situations where they feel solemn and what they do in order to feel better.

Recommended 3 out of 4 stars
Reviewer: Kimberlee Johnson

Kimberlee Johnson is a grade three teacher in the St. Albert Public School District and is currently completing her Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Pedagogy at the University of Alberta. Kimberlee loves how her students give her honest and true opinions about each and every book they read.