Synopses & Reviews
Sachiko "happiness" in Japanese is the name shared by a young girl and her beloved grandmother. Over the years, Grandmother has changed, and now, childlike herself, she hardly recognizes her granddaughter Sachiko. Set within a Japanese American family, the story shows how Sachiko's initial irritation with her grandmother's erratic, seemingly inexplicable behavior changes to compassion and tact. Sachiko Means Happiness is a sensitive, touching treatment of relationships between generations and how they shift as they are faced with the problems of aging. Recommended for all children by the Alzheimer's Society.
Review
"Sakai's spare prose gives the subject the dignity it deserves, while Arai's dynamic illustrations enhance the book's emotional appeal. Sachiko Means Happiness is an example of some of the fine books being produced by smaller publishers." Publishers Weekly
Review
This perceptive glimpse of one Japanese family's loving response to the grief of Alzheimer's is illustrated with richly glowing pastels in a realistic style emphasizing the drama between child and grandmother. Promising debuts for both author and illustrator." Kirkus Children's and Young Adult Edition