Ages 2-12

Two terrific stories, as well as an introduction to Japanese kamishibai - a storytelling format dating back to the 12th century!

Local author Hazuki Kataoka will read two of her award-winning Storycard Theater books, Momotaro the Peach Boy and Jack & the Beanstalk. Momotaro is a classic Japanese tale about a boy, mysteriously born from a giant peach, who grows up to defend his village against a gang of greedy ogres. Kataoka’s version of Jack follows one of the lesser-known story lines, presenting the hero as an altruistic figure instead of a sneaky thief.

Both books are printed in the Japanese kamishibai format — as large cards with colorful artwork on the front and dramatic text on the back. This unique design lets the performer read to an audience while showing the pictures. Noted child development expert Dr. Toy named Storycard Theater one of the 10 Best Creative Products of 2004. 

Like the original kamishibai storytellers, Kataoka enhances her performances with sound effects, musical instruments, and dramatic gestures that just aren’t possible when reading from a normal picture book.

Please join us for this special storytelling presentation.

For more information, please visit www.StorycardTheater.com