[A Classic for Storytime] The Philosophy of Kindness Chains and Exchange Taught by 'Dozo no Isu' (The 'Please' Chair)

Introduction

: The Magic of 'Please' Loved Across Generations

This time, we are introducing the long-selling picture book 'Dozo no Isu' (The 'Please' Chair), written by Yoshiko Kayama and illustrated by Kozo Kakimoto.

Since its first edition was published by Hisakata Child on November 1, 1981, this picture book has been loved for over 40 years, with cumulative circulation exceeding 1.4 million copies as of 2021 1 2 3.

The theme of the story is the very simple yet profound 'chain of kindness.' The heartwarming 'exchanges' that unfold around a chair made by a rabbit convey to children the thoughtfulness contained in the word 'please' (dozo) and the joy of giving.

In this article, we will delve into the appeal of this timeless masterpiece, the thoughts put into it by the author and illustrator, and tips for reading it aloud, based on reliable information.

1. Basic Information about the Picture Book 'Dozo no Isu'

• Title: Dozo no Isu (The 'Please' Chair)

• Author: Yoshiko Kayama

• Illustrator: Kozo Kakimoto

• Publisher: Hisakata Child

• First Edition Publication Date: November 1, 1981

Author Yoshiko Kayama is known as a poet and children's book writer, characterized by her warm perspective and choice of words that resonate with children's hearts 4. Illustrator Kozo Kakimoto's simple and warm painting style further enhances the gentle atmosphere of the story 5.

2. The Appeal of the Story: The Chain of Kindness Contained in 'Please'

The story revolves around the 'Dozo no Isu' (The 'Please' Chair) that a rabbit made under a tree in a field, where heartwarming 'exchanges' among animals unfold.

The core of the plot is a chain of kindness where a donkey leaves acorns, a fox leaves bread, a bear leaves honey, a squirrel leaves chestnuts, and finally, the rabbit exchanges them for strawberries to take home.

Author Yoshiko Kayama has stated that the word 'please' (dozo) embodies the feeling of caring for others 6. This word includes a modest kindness that imagines the other person's joy and suggests, 'Please use this.' The chair functions as a place to pass the baton of kindness, and the animals leave behind the 'best thing' they have for the sake of someone else who comes next. This 'philosophy of exchange' conveys to children a message that is important even in modern society: kindness that does not seek a reward and imagination for others.

3. Thoughts Put into the Work by the Author and Illustrator

The author, Yoshiko Kayama, was inspired by the image of a rabbit in the moonlight, symbolizing selfless kindness through the figure of a rabbit who silently builds a chair for someone else 7. Kayama views this story as a "tale of exchange," representing an "interaction between hearts" 6.

The simple, adorable animals and soft colors by illustrator Kozo Kakimoto perfectly capture the warm atmosphere of the story, visually establishing a peaceful and gentle world where animals calmly engage in "swapping."

4. Tips for Storytime and Educational Benefits

"Dozo no Isu" is also an excellent resource for storytime.

Tips for Reading Aloud

1. Enjoy the rhythmic repetition: By cherishing the pleasant, repetitive rhythm of the story and varying your tone of voice, you can draw children into the narrative.

2. Emphasize the word "Dozo" (Please): By reading the word "Dozo," which is the core of the story, gently and with a slight pause, you convey the weight and warmth that the word carries.

3. Speak for the animals: By expressing the animals' inner feelings through your voice, you can evoke empathy in children.

Educational Benefits for Children

This picture book has the following impacts on children:

• Cultivating empathy and imagination: Through the actions of the animals who think of the next person, children develop the ability to imagine the feelings of others.

• Understanding the power of words: Children learn the power contained in the single word "Dozo," and how that word creates a chain of kindness.

• Understanding the concepts of exchange and sharing: Children can naturally grasp social rules, such as exchanging one's own items with others, and the joy of sharing.

Conclusion: Passing the Baton of Kindness to the Future

"Dozo no Isu" is a philosophical book that teaches the beauty of how the invisible treasure of kindness is passed from person to person.

Reading this picture book aloud helps plant warm seeds of consideration for others in children's hearts. Please try experiencing the magic of this "Dozo" in your home or at storytime sessions.

PR:
For unlimited reading, Kindle Unlimited is recommended! You can try it free for 30 days! If you want to enjoy music,
click here! Free trial available! For busy people,
Audible is also recommended!

Related Articles