Dearest Book Lovers, do you have older siblings? Can you recall instances where you got frustrated because they were able to experience things first? Perhaps your kiddos can relate and desire the chance to one up their big sister/brother. If these sentiments ring familiar, then you’ll love Debbi Michiko Florence’s Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen.  

Jasmine is tired of doing everything after her big sister Sophie. Just once she wants to lead the way in doing something and she wants it to be something BIG! When her family comes into town to celebrate the New Year, divine inspiration strikes.  Jasmine is going to help pound the rice used to make mochi, a yummy dessert they enjoy during their celebration. Pounding mochi is a task typically reserved for the men in the family as it requires lots of strength to execute properly. Rolling the mochi balls is what the girls and women do and this year is the first time that Sophie is old enough to participate. Yet another task where Jasmine cannot be the first! So she sets out to become the first girl in her family to pound mochi. Will Jasmine’s father think she’s tough enough to join in? Will her mom and grandmother, with their focus on tradition, allow her shake up the rules? Grab a copy of Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen to find out!

Your young reader will enjoy this tale of determination and relate to Jasmine’s desire to create her own path in life.  She is truly a character that you will find yourself cheering on. Bonus? Jasmine Toguchi is a series so you can enjoy more of this spirited character.  The way this page turner gently brings you into its world and makes everything so engaging, I am certain you will like to read more. And if you find that this sweet read leaves you craving a little treat, there is helpful surprise at the end of the book that can help you out. 😉 

Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen was written by Debbi Michiko Florence and illustrated by Elizabet Vuković. It is for young readers 6-9 years old.