Cool Tokyo Guide

February 15, 2018

American cartoonist and author (Cool Japan Guide) Denson explores Tokyo with her husband, Matt, friend Yuuko, and adorable character Kitty Sweet Tooth, who also "teaches" readers Japanese words at the beginning of each chapter in this book. In addition to the usual information found in travel guides, Denson shares tips from her own experience. Her lively illustrations add to the spirited text. In chapters such as "Culture Shock Funnies," we learn that trash cans are rare, and in clothing fitting rooms, shoes are removed and clear plastic masks must be worn. Helpful tips include: toilets go from high-tech to squat; always have a map to help taxi drivers; check what tickets must be bought in advance; and notice exits, especially in hotels, because of frequent earthquakes. The author's appealing illustrations range from restaurant gimmicks, such as a clown driving robotic ladies, to beautiful Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Illustrated descriptions by Matt and Yuuko add to the fun. VERDICT This title will be helpful when planning a trip to Japan or for pure "stay at home" entertainment.--Susan G. Baird, formerly with Oak Lawn P.L., IL

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2018

Gr 6 Up-Denson's (Cool Japan Guide) second travel manual uses colorful cartoons to bring to life the sheer variety of experiences that Tokyo offers. The book is written by a frequent visitor to Japan for those organizing their first trip there. Initial chapters focus on planning and scheduling as well as crucial survival skills to commit to memory. Denson then describes an assortment of restaurants, theme parks, stores, architecture, and cultural locales. She highlights a wide array of activities and locations, emphasizing that there's something for almost anyone to enjoy in the city. All the while, the character Kitty Sweet Tooth imparts key Japanese words and phrases. With bright colors and wavy lines, the illustrations present the city as an imaginative wonderland. These visual elements, paired with Denson's breezy writing style, make what could have been a dull exercise into a delightful and educational excursion through Japan's capital city and its surrounding areas. VERDICT Anyone with even a passing interest in visiting Tokyo someday would do well to seek out this title. It contains valuable information for those unfamiliar with the city as well as a few nuggets even the seasoned Japanophile will find useful.-Chuck Hodgin, Belmont University Library, Nashville

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from January 1, 2018
Grades 10-1 *Starred Review* Denson's cheerful, oversize travel guide could be dismissed by prospective travelers because of her lighthearted, brightly colored manga-style art, especially with cutesy Kitty Sweet Tooth, who doles out vocabulary terms. But this informative guide touches on exactly the sorts of things a Western traveler needs to know, from getting passes to the Ghibli Museum months in advance to visiting fun discount stores to asking where the toilet isand then how to use it once you are there! There are helpful phrases to learn; important social cues to recognize; tips on where to visit, along with addresses and websites; guides to visiting hot baths; and more. Though the target audience might seem to be teens because of the art style, this guide will be of equally great use to adults, especially those who are manga and anime fans. There is even a section on traveling with children. Denson often travels with two fellow comic artists, her husband Matt Loux and their friend Yuuko Koyama. Both contribute small comics at the end of the book to spotlight things important to them. The overall result is a love song to a city and an inspiration for prospective visitors.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)