[Picture Books] Savor the fun of words: A special feature on recommended onomatopoeia picture books
Have you ever heard the word onomatopoeia?
It refers to words written with rhythmic sound effects like “wan-wan” (woof-woof) or “jaa-jaa” (the sound of rushing water).
When reading picture books aloud, some teachers may feel a bit unsure about how to read these.
The onomatopoeia picture books we’re introducing this time are very easy to read if you imagine the sounds as you go!
For example, when you see “fuwa-fuwa” (fluffy), you wouldn’t read it in a strong, booming voice, would you?
“Fuwa-fuwa” gives a gentle, light impression, so if you read it in a way that shares that image, it will come across clearly.
We’re also introducing many books whose rhythm of language is fun—not just the sounds—so please give them a read!
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[Picture Books] Savor the Joy of Words: A Recommended Onomatopoeia Picture Book Collection (1–10)
fluffy fluffy fluffy
Shuntaro Tanikawa, one of Japan’s most renowned poets, has created many enduring works, and I’m sure many of you have read his book Moko Moko Moko.
In this work, the illustrations seem to link with the onomatopoeia, and the bold colors and distinctive movements of the images are striking.
Rather than understanding it as a fixed, linear story, it’s a wonderful piece that sparks the imagination.
The impression also changes depending on the reader’s tone of voice and reading speed, which makes it very engaging.
Enjoy the book together while watching your child’s reactions and expressions, and come to love the work alongside them!
woof woof woof woof
We’d like to introduce Jun Takabatake’s Wan Wan Wan Wan, known for Whose Bicycle Is This?.
As you turn the picture-book pages, different creatures appear one after another and make their sounds.
For children who aren’t yet comfortable reading text, it works well to ask in a quiz style.
It’s a work you can enjoy together as your child grows! By tuning your energy and pacing as the reader, you’ll likely see the child’s feelings and thoughts show on their face.
Precisely because it’s simple, you can get hooked on the delightful world of this picture book.
A Picture Book of Japanese Onomatopoeia
A perfect work to spark the question, “When would you use this onomatopoeia?” Let me introduce Noriko Takano’s Picture Book of Japanese Onomatopoeia.
It’s often hard to explain subtle differences in nuance with words, isn’t it? Even adults can find themselves at a loss for words when a child asks, “What does that mean?” How about getting familiar with onomatopoeia in everyday life through this book? As your range of expression grows, conversations become even more fun!
[Picture Books] Savoring the Joy of Words: Recommended Onomatopoeia Picture Books (11–20)
glug glug gurgle gurgle
Let me introduce Gobo Gobo Gobogobo by Katsumi Komagata, renowned in Japan as a book artist and designer.
This work lets you enjoy lively onomatopoeia alongside vividly colored circles in blue, red, orange, and more.
The bold use of color naturally draws children’s interest.
And because there’s no fixed “right” story, the world of the picture book can be enjoyed in many ways through the reader’s tone and rhythm.
As a book that lets children experience the joy of sound, why not use it to spark their senses? Be sure to read it together with your child!
Dah-dah!
Let me introduce Michiyo Namura’s “Daddaa.” The charm of onomatopoeia is that everyone—from infants to adults—can enjoy it.
Use onomatopoeia to express things that come across without thinking or to describe what you see just as it is, and say them out loud with gusto.
You’ll find smiles bubbling up, and your facial expressions and tone of voice naturally brighten.
It’s such a lovely work! Communicating with children through picture books is so much fun.
This is a perfect choice as a first picture book or a memorable keepsake.
Please give it a read.
Hunga hunga
A striking, impactful cover! Let me introduce Shuji Oonari’s “Funga Funga.” A gorilla dad who’s short on exercise does some warm-ups and then starts jogging.
The setup alone is humorous and instantly draws you into the world.
It’s fun to imagine the feelings conveyed by the onomatopoeia “funga,” and he’s a character you can’t help but root for.
Why not try adding your own original “funga” to your daily life? Definitely give it a read.
Popāpe popipappu
We’d like to introduce Shuntaro Tanikawa’s Popa-pepopipappu, by a poet, translator, picture-book author, screenwriter, and more—someone who has long supported Japanese culture through the power of words.
The picture book features quirky creatures and onomatopoeia.
Somehow, children seem to delight in its rhythm and sounds.
When you open your mouth wide and speak it aloud, the rhythm just feels good.
Its catchy words are bound to hook everyone from infants to adults! Be sure to enjoy the onomatopoeia out loud together with your kids.