Cool Japan Guide

January 12, 2015
Comic book artist and food blogger Denson (Dolltopia) fills this hip and handy travel guide with her expertise as a frequent visitor to Japan and her bright and vibrant illustrations. The drawings feature the artist and her husband, their Japanese friend Yuuko, and Kitty Sweet Tooth (Denson’s cartoon-cat alter ego), who provides language lessons, including a pronunciation guide and common words and phrases. Denson outlines what to do ahead of time, such as purchasing discount transportation tickets and exchanging money, and offers space-saving packing tips. A quick rundown of the public transit system—the Narita Express—ensures you won’t look like a tourist, and an etiquette lesson explains traditions to observe when visiting a Japanese home. Food and drink topics range from the famously bizarre Japanese vending machines and intricate bento lunch boxes to conveyor-belt sushi and the more formal kaiseki meals of Kyoto. Manga fans will find plenty of activities, including comic conventions, the International Manga Museum, and bookstores with the widest selections. Further recreational recommendations include karaoke and nightlife spots, shrines and temples, arcades, and the eclectic maid (and butler) cafes. First-time visitors may want to seek out a more complete guidebook, but Denson’s artwork and perspective make for an entertaining supplement at the very least.

March 1, 2015

Gr 5 Up-What could be a more fitting format for a travel guide on modern Japan than a comic book? Relying on delightful cartoon illustrations, this creative, nicely designed title details travel preparations, the homestay experience, food, shopping, and festivals. Readers will get a strong sense of all that the country has to offer: manga, anime, onsens (or hot springs), karaoke bars, and much more. Some images are accompanied by lengthy, enlightening captions. Kitty Sweet Tooth, a cheery feline who sports a lime green dress festooned with a red heart, introduces a pronunciation guide for common words. Useful websites, handy apps, emergency information, and a list of recommended places to visit can be found at the back of the book, along with a basic map. VERDICT Those fascinated by Japan will enjoy this amusing and educational romp.-Robyn Gioia, Antilles Middle School, Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from March 15, 2015

It would be almost as much fun planning a trip using this clever, helpful, enjoyable guide as actually visiting Japan! Author and illustrator Denson is an award-winning graphic novelist; her lighthearted text and whimsical illustrations add pleasure to the fact-filled book. Readers accompany Abby, her husband, Matt, Japanese friend Yuuko, and Kitty Sweet Tooth, Denson's cartoon alter ego (who shares new words and travel tips). The manual begins with the basics: passports, packing, best time to travel, etc. Most fun are the food and shopping sections. There are vending machines for everything, including pumpkin soup and ramen noodles--tiny spoon included. The 24-hour convenience stores offer a huge selection of goodies and are ideal for the budget-minded. The author offers suggestions for economical and easy-to-pack souvenirs such as anime and manga toys. Entertaining and enlightening is an explanation of toilet types, from traditional squat to those with heated seats and finally, a motion-sensor model in which the seat pops up when a person enters the room. The volume concludes with websites for restaurants, hotels, transportation, Japan apps, and emergency information. VERDICT Unlike most travel books, this title assures active travelers and the armchair variety alike a delightful time and a very interesting trip.--Susan G. Baird, formerly with Oak Lawn P.L., IL

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.