Chibi: A True Story from Japan

This true story is set in Japan. Oka-san, a duck, decides to build a nest and lay its eggs in an office park in Downtown Tokyo. Citizens of Tokyo are enchanted by the mother duck and her brood of 10 ducklings. The smallest Chibi, is everyone's favorite, including the photographer Sato-san. Soon large crowds come to see the ducks. There is even a segment titled "Duck Watch" on the evening news. However soon the duck family moves to a bigger pond in the "Emperor's Garden across Uchibori Dori". Sato-san helps the ducks cross the road and the family settles in their new home, until Tokyo is hit by a typhoon. After the storm, Chibi and two other ducklings are missing. A massive search goes underway. Chibi is found after two days floating on show more a piece of plastic. "When the Emperor heard of the brave struggle of the kamo he ordered a special strong, handsome duck house built" for the ducks.
It is a feel good story with a lot of twists and turns. The story is peppered with a number of japanese words with their meaning explained at the end of the book. The story gives us a picture of the city of Tokyo as well as its citizens. its heart warming to read about the efforts that the citizens undertook to save the birds. The book is recommended for ages 5-9. It can be used as a supplemental reading resource while learning about the cultures around the world. The book also briefly discusses the habitat of a pond and how different animals interact with one another. ("the swans would suddenly appear on the water like a fleet of white sailing ships. When the ducks were in their paths, they hissed and trumpeted in a terrifying way"). In all an interesting and entertaining book. show less

This story is quite cute and endearing. It is a true story so a class project might be to look up articles about this for older students. I think what makes this a great story is the way that the people of Tokyo reacted to the ducks. Not only the fact that their presence became a news-worthy phenomenon but the seemingly instinctual way in which the people felt a need to protect the ducks and even mourn for one of the ducks. Incorporates Japanese vocabulary with a glossary, so could be great for unit on Japan. Might also be a good book for a lesson on altruism. That being said, I didn't find that the author helped me connect with the ducks or care about their outcome in a personal way. I felt I was merely observing, thus the two-star rating.

A delightful story! This is a great nature study read aloud, or wonderful picture book that also shares a few Japanese words, with a provided pronunciation guide. The book is divided into two chapters as well for young readers.

When a spot-bill duck makes her home in the middle of downtown Tokyo crowds of people gather to watch as she hatches and raises ten eggs. Soon though, the little pond they reside is is just that--too little. So Okasan must travel across eight lanes of traffic, survive tumultuous typhoon winds and waters with her brood--including chibi, the smallest duckling in the bunch--to find a permanent home for her family.