No Reason Needed. Just Dance! 'Odori-masu' (We Dance), a Picture Book That Makes You Smile

The moment you open this picture book, the words "We dance" jump out at you. What follows is a series of illustrations of nothing but dancing, with almost no explanation or story. You might be puzzled at first, but by the time you finish reading, you'll feel strangely refreshed, and your body might even start swaying naturally—that is the mysterious charm of the picture book "Odori-masu" (Ehonkan).

The author of this picture book is Jun Takabatake. He is an artist skilled in humor, warmth, and the expression of "negative space," and he has created many popular works. This book, "Odori-masu," is a quintessential example of his style: simple, bold, and sure to ignite the reader's imagination.

The Structure and Appeal of the Picture Book

"Odori-masu" has no story to speak of. There is no dialogue, no explanation, and no background for the characters. All there is are illustrations of creatures dancing away, accompanied simply by the words "We dance."

Pigs, horses, octopuses (!), and sometimes even dogs and things that shouldn't even exist are just dancing. It is simply delightful. And every time you turn the page, you can't help but feel excited, wondering, "Who (or what) is going to dance next?"

Every "dancing" movement is unique and rhythmic. Moreover, the energy of the illustrations is incredible. Even though the color palette is limited, the intensity and movement are so vivid that you can almost hear the music.

How do children react? How to enjoy it during storytime

This picture book is a top-tier hit for storytime sessions.

I personally tried reading it to a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old. From the moment I read the first page, their eyes lit up. And after just a few pages, they were already dancing along.

They moved their bodies to the phrase "We dance," and cheered every time a new "dancing friend" appeared on the page. By the end, they were completely immersed in the world of the book, saying things like, "I want to dance too!" and "I'm going to be a banana and dance!"

Since there is very little text, another great point is that the reader is free to set the tempo and rhythm. You can read it like a rap, or act out the dancing while you read; parents and children can enjoy it together using their whole bodies. It feels less like reading a picture book and more like "playing" with one. It could truly be called an experiential picture book.

A "Time to Be Free" for Adults Too

When adults read this book, they get a sense of relief, as if a weight has been lifted, thinking, "It's okay to be this free."

In our busy daily lives, we tend to look for "meaning" or "correctness." But none of that appears in "Odori-masu." It's just dancing, pointlessly and joyfully.

Yes, that's all it takes. You don't need a reason. Just by "dancing," you can smile. That alone is enough. Such a simple and powerful message gently reaches the heart.

The Space for Imagination Provided by Ehonkan

This work is published by "Ehonkan," which has produced many classic picture books. Ehonkan's books often feature structures that draw out children's "imagination" and are characterized by expressions that leave room for interpretation.

"Odori-masu" is exactly that. Because it doesn't explain everything, the reader's heart and body can "participate." It's the kind of book where the experience doesn't end when you finish reading—it's only just beginning.

Summary: When You Want to Feel "Free" Through a Picture Book

"Odori-masu" is the perfect picture book for when you are tired from parenting, when you want to spend a fun time with your children, or when you want to loosen up your own heart.

A world of freedom, cheerfulness, and imagination unfolds with every turn of the page. The "fun" that transcends words is packed into every page.

Why not spend some time reading aloud, moving your body, and "dancing together" with your child?

Bibliographic Information

• Title: We Dance

• Author: Jun Takabatake

• Publisher: Ehonkan

• Target Age: 2 years old and up

• Number of Pages: 32 pages

PR:
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