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Jasmine Toguchi #3
Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl
It's talent show time at school, and eight-year-old Jasmine Toguchi is excited to show her stuff. But as she thinks about her strengths--tree-climbing, mochi making, collage--none of them feel quite right to perform on-stage. Jasmine's friends already have a talent: Tommy yo-yo's, Daisy dances, and Linnie plays piano. Plus, Maggie Milsap (aka Miss Perfect) is saying she'll have the best talent.
When Jasmine's mom introduces her to the taiko, a traditional Japanese drum, Jasmine finally finds an activity that feels just right. But will she be good enough at taiko in time to beat Maggie Milsap?
Join Jasmine as she discovers her talent--and the difference between being the best and trying your best.
*A fun activity included in every book!*
When Jasmine's mom introduces her to the taiko, a traditional Japanese drum, Jasmine finally finds an activity that feels just right. But will she be good enough at taiko in time to beat Maggie Milsap?
Join Jasmine as she discovers her talent--and the difference between being the best and trying your best.
*A fun activity included in every book!*
128 pages, Hardcover
First published April 3, 2018
23 people are currently reading
468 people want to read
About the author
Debbi Michiko Florence
42 books239 followersDebbi Michiko Florence is the author of upper middle grade novels Sweet and Sour, Keep It Together, Keiko Carter, Just Be Cool, Jenna Sakai, and This Is How I Roll. She has a debut middle grade series called Last Chance Academy. Book 1, A Study in Secrets, is coming on March 11, 2025! She is also the author of three chapter books series including Jasmine Toguchi with four new books, Follow Jasmine as she travels to Japan on vacation! And Debbi co-authored a picture book biography, Niki Nakayama: A Chef’s Tale in 13 Bites.
Her books have received starred reviews, JLG Selections, and inclusion on lists such as Amazon Best Books and the Chicago Public Library Best of the Best.
Her books have received starred reviews, JLG Selections, and inclusion on lists such as Amazon Best Books and the Chicago Public Library Best of the Best.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 25, 2018
Jasmine is initially excited when her teacher announces that the school is hosting a talent show on Saturday and all students are encouraged to participate. Jasmine knows she has some good talents. She's good at tree climbing, collage making, and mochi making. But then she realizes none of those talents is good for the stage and she worries she'll have nothing to contribute. Her mom has an idea and gets Jasmine taiko lessons. Jasmine worries she won't be good enough in time. Will the talent show be a total embarrassment?
I love the discussion Jasmine and her mom have about failure, having fun, that good enough is ok, and to not be embarrassed about mistakes. Such an important thing for young readers to hear (and especially good for kids of Asian descent who often have perfectionism drilled into them). Jasmine's discussion with her sister about the role of practice was great too. And I loved Jasmine's final response to the girl who was driving her batty all week with her bragging. She chose kindness rather than bragging herself, which was fantastic. It is great to have a character learn to play Japanese drums. I have never, ever read about someone learning taiko before. It's a fun cultural addition that is utterly unique and totally fits Jasmine's character. Highly recommended to lower grade readers who have like realistic stories and those who may have perfectionistic tendencies.
I love the discussion Jasmine and her mom have about failure, having fun, that good enough is ok, and to not be embarrassed about mistakes. Such an important thing for young readers to hear (and especially good for kids of Asian descent who often have perfectionism drilled into them). Jasmine's discussion with her sister about the role of practice was great too. And I loved Jasmine's final response to the girl who was driving her batty all week with her bragging. She chose kindness rather than bragging herself, which was fantastic. It is great to have a character learn to play Japanese drums. I have never, ever read about someone learning taiko before. It's a fun cultural addition that is utterly unique and totally fits Jasmine's character. Highly recommended to lower grade readers who have like realistic stories and those who may have perfectionistic tendencies.
December 26, 2018
It's talent show time at school, and eight-year-old Jasmine Toguchi is excited to show her stuff. But as she thinks about her strengths--tree-climbing, mochi making, collage--none of them feel quite right to perform on-stage. Jasmine's friends already have a talent: Tommy yo-yo's, Daisy dances, and Linnie plays piano. Plus, Maggie Milsap (aka Miss Perfect) is saying she'll have the best talent.
When Jasmine's mom introduces her to the taiko, a traditional Japanese drum, Jasmine finally finds an activity that feels just right. But will she be good enough at taiko in time to beat Maggie Milsap?
When Jasmine's mom introduces her to the taiko, a traditional Japanese drum, Jasmine finally finds an activity that feels just right. But will she be good enough at taiko in time to beat Maggie Milsap?
April 14, 2018
This is the first book I have read in this series, and I loved it. It is a sweet early chapter book about a Japanese-American girl who makes mistakes and tries again. She has trouble with a girl in her class who brags, but Jasmine ends up being nice to her. The author’s points are made without being preachy, which is refreshing. I also liked learning about the Japanese taiko. I will be buying this for my niece. I definitely recommend it.
April 3, 2018
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Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
JASMINE TOGUCHI: DRUMMER GIRL
By Debbi Michiko Florence (pictures by Elizabet Vukovic)
This is the third book in the Jasmine Toguchi chapter book series, which features a third-generation Japanese American girl, and it’s a wowee zowee winner!
Jasmine is a third grader at Drake Elementary and it is nearly time for the school talent show. Jasmine’s close friends all have talents to demonstrate in the show, so does the overly perfect Maggie Milsap. But Jasmine’s talents— making collages, tree climbing, and pounding mocha —aren’t exactly stage material.
Luckily, Jasmine’s mother introduces her to taiko aka Japanese drumming. Learning taiko with her mother’s taiko-playing friend makes Jasmine feel strong and happy. She instantly falls in love with her newly acquired skill and is convinced she is gifted with natural drumming ability. But the talent show is looming and Jasmine will have to realize the importance of hard work and practice if she is to stand a chance at outshining Maggie Milsap and performing well in the big event.
This chapter book is ideal for readers aged 6-9. It uses simple language and short sentences and is a page-turning read. It also includes an author’s note on the history of taiko and instructions on how to make a hachi-maki headband, a popular accessory for taiko players.
Best enjoyed with a big plate of mouth-watering sushi! Oh, and keep an eye out for the next title to come in the series, Jasmine Toguchi, Flamingo Keeper, which will no doubt be just as appealing.
Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
JASMINE TOGUCHI: DRUMMER GIRL
By Debbi Michiko Florence (pictures by Elizabet Vukovic)
This is the third book in the Jasmine Toguchi chapter book series, which features a third-generation Japanese American girl, and it’s a wowee zowee winner!
Jasmine is a third grader at Drake Elementary and it is nearly time for the school talent show. Jasmine’s close friends all have talents to demonstrate in the show, so does the overly perfect Maggie Milsap. But Jasmine’s talents— making collages, tree climbing, and pounding mocha —aren’t exactly stage material.
Luckily, Jasmine’s mother introduces her to taiko aka Japanese drumming. Learning taiko with her mother’s taiko-playing friend makes Jasmine feel strong and happy. She instantly falls in love with her newly acquired skill and is convinced she is gifted with natural drumming ability. But the talent show is looming and Jasmine will have to realize the importance of hard work and practice if she is to stand a chance at outshining Maggie Milsap and performing well in the big event.
This chapter book is ideal for readers aged 6-9. It uses simple language and short sentences and is a page-turning read. It also includes an author’s note on the history of taiko and instructions on how to make a hachi-maki headband, a popular accessory for taiko players.
Best enjoyed with a big plate of mouth-watering sushi! Oh, and keep an eye out for the next title to come in the series, Jasmine Toguchi, Flamingo Keeper, which will no doubt be just as appealing.
April 20, 2018
@kidlitexchange #partner —— All opinions are my own.
Wowee zowee! This is book three in the sweet, early chapter, Jasmine Toguchi series. It’s definitely another hit. This story follows Jasmine as she tries to figure out a talent to perform at her school’s upcoming talent show. Her mom suggests playing taiko, a traditional Japanese drum. She loves how it makes her feel, but will she be able to remember all of the steps in time for the show? Jasmine quickly learns that practice is a key component to any successful talent.
I love how this series uses a spunky 8 year old character to introduce young readers to Japanese terminology and traditions. My daughter gets so excited every time she spots mochi in the store now. I know as soon as she reads this book, that we will be looking up taiko videos and making our very own hachi-maki. The author very generously included directions at the end of the book.
The story includes some cute illustrations and is told in short, easy to comprehend chapters. It would make a wonderful read aloud selections for grades 1-3 or the perfect gift for a music teacher!! We love watching this series grow. Book 4, Jasmine Toguchi Flamingo Keeper comes out July 2018. Looking forward to seeing what Jasmine teaches us next!!
Wowee zowee! This is book three in the sweet, early chapter, Jasmine Toguchi series. It’s definitely another hit. This story follows Jasmine as she tries to figure out a talent to perform at her school’s upcoming talent show. Her mom suggests playing taiko, a traditional Japanese drum. She loves how it makes her feel, but will she be able to remember all of the steps in time for the show? Jasmine quickly learns that practice is a key component to any successful talent.
I love how this series uses a spunky 8 year old character to introduce young readers to Japanese terminology and traditions. My daughter gets so excited every time she spots mochi in the store now. I know as soon as she reads this book, that we will be looking up taiko videos and making our very own hachi-maki. The author very generously included directions at the end of the book.
The story includes some cute illustrations and is told in short, easy to comprehend chapters. It would make a wonderful read aloud selections for grades 1-3 or the perfect gift for a music teacher!! We love watching this series grow. Book 4, Jasmine Toguchi Flamingo Keeper comes out July 2018. Looking forward to seeing what Jasmine teaches us next!!
October 8, 2017
I loved this story! A perfect complement to the first JASMINE TOGUCHI book, this new installment sees Jasmine struggling over her talent show routine. Her mother suggests she try taiko, which Jasmine tries and loves! But when the talent show turns more into a talent "competition" between the participating kids, Jasmine wonders how good her talent really is. These chapter books are so lovely, and I look forward to more from this talented writer.
April 13, 2018
What I love about the Jasmine Toguchi books is the cultural piece it brings within the story of a child that will feel recognizable to every reader.
In this book, Jasmine discovers in order to be good at something, you must practice and practice, despite what show-off classmates may be saying. What she has to practice is taiko, a Japanese drum. I loved learning more about these powerful instruments!
Another fun book in the Jasmine Toguchi series!
In this book, Jasmine discovers in order to be good at something, you must practice and practice, despite what show-off classmates may be saying. What she has to practice is taiko, a Japanese drum. I loved learning more about these powerful instruments!
Another fun book in the Jasmine Toguchi series!
July 17, 2019
I love this simple message about talents. They're something you work on, and you can always learn new ones. I love the drums, so I love this book! Great job with it.
September 23, 2023
Another fun story about Jasmine. I really love how her family's Japanese culture is a part of her life and just taken for granted. No one questions it as "weird" or different. In this book, her school is holding a talent show and Jasmine is eager to show off her special talent. But all the talents are taken and none of hers lend themselves to an audience. If only she had a pet flamingo! Jasmine's mom helps her discover her talent- something that makes her feel energized and happy and excited. Jasmine chooses to perform taiko drumming, a tradition in Japan. Her mom's friend helps her learn but she only has two days to remember the beats! Can she remember her talent and win the talent show?
Note: It's a talent SHOW, not a competition, but the new girl in school has to be the best at everything. Of course Maggie quotes her dad who claims "Life is a competition" and of course as usual in kidlit, when we get a look at Maggie's family and hear what she has to say about "winning" and "losing", we understand why she is so competitive. The lessons learned in this book are : practice makes perfect, TRY your best and have fun. Having fun is more important than winning!
Jasmine is a bit too energetic and eager for me but I like her a lot. She's young and impulsive sometimes but not malicious or mean about it. She spunky and confident, loves life and is eager to embrace everything life has to offer. Jasmine has a sunny spirit and I like how close her family is. Even big sister Sophie, who is now often mean and bossy, loves her little sister and wants to help Jasmine be her best.
I always enjoy learning more about Japanese culture from Jasmine. I've seen taiko drumming on TV at the Olympics but I didn't know much about it. The author's note provides a satisfying amount of information on the history of taiko drumming.
The craft activity is make your own hachimaki, a taiko drummer's twisted cloth headband.
Note: It's a talent SHOW, not a competition, but the new girl in school has to be the best at everything. Of course Maggie quotes her dad who claims "Life is a competition" and of course as usual in kidlit, when we get a look at Maggie's family and hear what she has to say about "winning" and "losing", we understand why she is so competitive. The lessons learned in this book are : practice makes perfect, TRY your best and have fun. Having fun is more important than winning!
Jasmine is a bit too energetic and eager for me but I like her a lot. She's young and impulsive sometimes but not malicious or mean about it. She spunky and confident, loves life and is eager to embrace everything life has to offer. Jasmine has a sunny spirit and I like how close her family is. Even big sister Sophie, who is now often mean and bossy, loves her little sister and wants to help Jasmine be her best.
I always enjoy learning more about Japanese culture from Jasmine. I've seen taiko drumming on TV at the Olympics but I didn't know much about it. The author's note provides a satisfying amount of information on the history of taiko drumming.
The craft activity is make your own hachimaki, a taiko drummer's twisted cloth headband.
February 18, 2021
A great story about finding your own true talents, how practice makes perfect, and most importantly for young girls - you don’t need to compare yourself to others. There are things about you that make you special, you don’t need to be just like everyone else.
January 11, 2023
Another fun installment in the Jasmine Toguchi series!
February 2, 2023
1000% recommend this series for ages 6-9! I swear I learn something new from every one of these sweet little books.
February 25, 2023
As a taiko drummer, I was thrilled to see a book for kids about taiko! Jasmine is a very relatable grade 3 girl learning about her Japanese heritage while living in California. My 8 year old devours this series, reading each book in a day.
November 13, 2018
https://raisethemrighteous.com/2018/1...
Debbie Michiko Florence’s delightful early chapter book series, about an 8-year-old Japanese American girl named Jasmine Toguchi, provides readers with accessible and engaging snapshots of Japanese cultural traditions as well as universal struggles of growing up in the US.
In Drummer Girl Jasmine is tasked with quickly discovering a talent she can display at the school’s talent show. She has many interests, like collaging and tree climbing, but they’re not the kind of thing live audiences are likely to find entertaining. Jasmine feels like the only student in the third grade without a talent and grows anxious, initially keeping her feelings to herself.
Jasmine soon shares her anxiety with her loving and supportive mother who introduces her to taiko (Japanese drums). In college, Jasmine’s mother played taiko with a woman name Kat who recently moved to the neighborhood. Kat gives Jasmine lessons about the drums and Japanese values. Florence writes: “Kat said taiko was about respect. Respect for space, the equipment, and people, including myself” (p. 72).
Jasmine’s performance is imperfect at the talent show dress rehearsal, but she is committed and, although nervous, participates in the official talent show. Jasmine performs brilliantly.
Afterwards, Jasmine sees a rather arrogant student who surprised herself by performing poorly. She approaches her and reassures her that her performance was fine. After learning that the girl doesn’t enjoy playing her instrument she invites her to learn taiko.
Packed with life lessons, diverse characters, and Japanese cultural traditions, I highly recommend this book for classroom and home libraries. The author’s website has fun activities to complement the series, and readers who fall in love have several other books starring Jasmine to devour next!
Debbie Michiko Florence’s delightful early chapter book series, about an 8-year-old Japanese American girl named Jasmine Toguchi, provides readers with accessible and engaging snapshots of Japanese cultural traditions as well as universal struggles of growing up in the US.
In Drummer Girl Jasmine is tasked with quickly discovering a talent she can display at the school’s talent show. She has many interests, like collaging and tree climbing, but they’re not the kind of thing live audiences are likely to find entertaining. Jasmine feels like the only student in the third grade without a talent and grows anxious, initially keeping her feelings to herself.
Jasmine soon shares her anxiety with her loving and supportive mother who introduces her to taiko (Japanese drums). In college, Jasmine’s mother played taiko with a woman name Kat who recently moved to the neighborhood. Kat gives Jasmine lessons about the drums and Japanese values. Florence writes: “Kat said taiko was about respect. Respect for space, the equipment, and people, including myself” (p. 72).
Jasmine’s performance is imperfect at the talent show dress rehearsal, but she is committed and, although nervous, participates in the official talent show. Jasmine performs brilliantly.
Afterwards, Jasmine sees a rather arrogant student who surprised herself by performing poorly. She approaches her and reassures her that her performance was fine. After learning that the girl doesn’t enjoy playing her instrument she invites her to learn taiko.
Packed with life lessons, diverse characters, and Japanese cultural traditions, I highly recommend this book for classroom and home libraries. The author’s website has fun activities to complement the series, and readers who fall in love have several other books starring Jasmine to devour next!
October 9, 2017
Eight-year-old Jasmine is excited about the upcoming school talent show and while she is confident about her talents, she's not so sure which one she should put on display for the whole school to see. She's bubbling over with exhilaration and thinks that a talent show sounds like a great deal of fun but when the new girl Maggie starts bragging about how great she is at everything, Jasmine starts to doubt herself and questions how good she really is at the things she knows how to do. Is it enough to just have fun at the talent show or should she work hard to outdo the perfect new girl?
This is the first book that I've read in the Jasmine Toguchi series and I really enjoyed it. Jasmine is a lovable character who is full of spunk and tenacity. Her story is sprinkled with educational gems too. In Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl, I learned a few Japanese words: taiko (drum), bachi (sticks), and hachi-maki (headband). There's even a how-to guide in the back of the book that provides step-by-step instructions on making a headband like the one Jasmine wore. Lastly, the author's note at the end provides additional information about historic and contemporary uses of the taiko.
I am always looking for new series to hook my students on and I do believe I found a winner in the Jasmine Toguchi series!
Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl
Debbi Michiko Florence
This is the first book that I've read in the Jasmine Toguchi series and I really enjoyed it. Jasmine is a lovable character who is full of spunk and tenacity. Her story is sprinkled with educational gems too. In Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl, I learned a few Japanese words: taiko (drum), bachi (sticks), and hachi-maki (headband). There's even a how-to guide in the back of the book that provides step-by-step instructions on making a headband like the one Jasmine wore. Lastly, the author's note at the end provides additional information about historic and contemporary uses of the taiko.
I am always looking for new series to hook my students on and I do believe I found a winner in the Jasmine Toguchi series!
Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl
Debbi Michiko Florence
May 7, 2018
Third grader Jasmine Toguchi is sure that she has a special talent to share with her classmates and others during the school talent show. But the more she thinks about it, the more she realizes that the things she does well don't necessarily translate well onto the stage. As time draws near to perform, Jasmine grows increasingly nervous because the things she's trying need a long time to perfect. And if that pesky Maggie Milsap would quit bragging, she might feel a little less pressure. Eventually, thanks to her mother, Jasmine finds something that allows her to use her creativity and energy, and she learns to play the taiko, a traditional Japanese drum. Although dress rehearsal is a disaster, her performance for the actual show goes off without a hitch, and her taiko teacher, Kat, and her mother are pleased with Jasmine who is also pleased with herself. Readers will love this character because she experiences many of the feelings that they have and because she is so determined. I liked the book for those reasons but also because it contains additional information about the taiko and provides directions on how to make a colorful hachi-maki or headband. This is a reliable series with dashes of Japanese culture that add to its appeal. I hope the author never gets tired of telling these stories, especially since each one has something to teach readers. This is the third one with others promised.
February 27, 2019
Jasmine Toguchi: Drummer Girl by Debbi Michiko Florence, illustrated by Elizabet Vukovic, 116 pages. Farrar Straus Giroux, 2018. $6
Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Jasmine’s school is having a talent show and she doesn’t know what to do. At eight years old, she is good at a few things that just aren’t talent show friendly. Her mom suggests taiko, Japanese drums, and teaches her a few moves for the big day.
I enjoyed this book because it has one clear plot line that will be easy for young readers to follow and introduces cultural pieces with a light touch. Throughout this book you learn several different things about Japanese culture. I also like that Jasmine is playful and young, but not mischievous, as many young characters are depicted.
Jen Wecker, HS English Teacher
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Jasmine’s school is having a talent show and she doesn’t know what to do. At eight years old, she is good at a few things that just aren’t talent show friendly. Her mom suggests taiko, Japanese drums, and teaches her a few moves for the big day.
I enjoyed this book because it has one clear plot line that will be easy for young readers to follow and introduces cultural pieces with a light touch. Throughout this book you learn several different things about Japanese culture. I also like that Jasmine is playful and young, but not mischievous, as many young characters are depicted.
Jen Wecker, HS English Teacher
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
April 22, 2018
I just love Jasmine Toguchi and I loved this installment in her series. The school talent show's coming up and Jasmine is super excited to participate. Jasmine has lots of talents - climbing trees, making collages, pounding mochi - but none of them are really things you can perform. Her mom comes to the rescue with the idea that Jasmine learn taiko, Japanese drumming, like her mom did when she was younger. Jasmine LOVES taiko immediately... but will she be good enough in time for the talent show?
This cute and relateable chapter book reinforces the idea that practice grows your skills and that the most important thing about a performance is that you have fun doing what you're doing. This story will definitely appeal to young musicians or any kids who work hard at a skill.
This cute and relateable chapter book reinforces the idea that practice grows your skills and that the most important thing about a performance is that you have fun doing what you're doing. This story will definitely appeal to young musicians or any kids who work hard at a skill.
December 26, 2018
Jasmine is very life-like in the way she mirrors the thoughts and issues kids her age go through. Jasmine's school is having a talent show and she is so very excited to participate! But when all of her classmates begin to sign up specifying their talent she begins the journey of discovering if she has a talent and what exactly is it. Although Jasmine has a very supportive group of friends and family, she is not immune to comparison being the thief of joy and she has to find a way to believe in herself regardless of what others, including a very obnoxious classmate, say. As always, when Jasmine decides she will learn a new skill, she does not quit, and practices until she feels she's ready. Another great Jasmine adventure!
September 1, 2017
Jasmine shines in her newest adventure! Her school is hosting a talent show. Excited at first, Jasmine has a hard time choosing a talent to showcase. That doesn't stop her friends from quickly choosing their talents. Then mom introduces her to the taiko, a traditional Japanese drum. Playing the drums feels great, but with a lot to learn, will she be ready for the talent show.
Readers will fall in love with Jasmine's voice, her spunky personality, and her perseverance as she learns what it means to try your best. As in previous books, readers will also get a glimpse into Japanese culture. I can't wait to join Jasmine on her next adventure!
Readers will fall in love with Jasmine's voice, her spunky personality, and her perseverance as she learns what it means to try your best. As in previous books, readers will also get a glimpse into Japanese culture. I can't wait to join Jasmine on her next adventure!
November 1, 2017
I had the opportunity to read the third book in the Jasmine Toguchi series. In this book, Jasmine's school is having a talent show. Jasmine is unsure about what she can do for the talent show until her mother sends her to learn to play the taiko, a Japanese drum. Jasmine finds a talent and a friend and learns about the necessity of practice. Jasmine is fun, spunky, and kind. As in the previous books, this book has pages at the end that give directions for making something related to the book. Great read for transitional chapter book readers.
September 16, 2018
This is my second Jasmine book and I plan to read every one of them. Jasmine is an authentic and lovable third grader who must deal with family, friendship, school, as well as personal discovery. I enjoy spending time with Jasmine and her family. The cultural aspects of these books are so much fun for me too. I've attended a Taiko concert, presented by a professional group from Japan and the performers are strong, talented, and entertaining. Someday, I want to take Taiko lessons too.
December 29, 2018
11/11/2018 ~ Possibly my favorite of the Jasmine Toguchi books. I really appreciate Jasmine's insecurity, and her realization that everyone needs to practice to get better at something. Finally, readers see that what others say about their lives/talents isn't always completely accurate.
Award:
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Award:
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February 1, 2019
What a fantastic and fun book. I will pretty immediately be checking out the other Jasmine Toguchi books. I really appreciated learning something about Japanese culture while reading the book, too. If you are looking for a short and easy chapter book for your child, you can't go wrong with Jamine Toguchi.
April 9, 2018
JASMINE TOGUCHI Drummer Girl struggles to find a talent for the talent show. Jasmine is full of spunk as always and finds her talent with the Taiko a traditional Japanese drum. A fun read.
Reminds me of when I saw Taiko drummers perform at the Japan Pavilion at Epcot --feel the thunder of Taiko.
Reminds me of when I saw Taiko drummers perform at the Japan Pavilion at Epcot --feel the thunder of Taiko.
April 28, 2018
I know exactly who I am going to share this series with when we return to school after vacation. What a great character and rich way to explore a different culture. Jasmine is exactly the friend 3rd and 4th graders would like to spend time with.
May 17, 2018
Jasmine Toguchi books are so cute, and they also teach kids about Japanese culture. I love that Debbi Michiko Florence added a note about what a Taiko is. These books are so fun, I recommend them to our students all the time.
December 19, 2017
Jasmine Toguchi is a character you will want in your 2nd-4th grade classroom! As one of my students said, "She is trying to find her talent and I know how that feels!"
April 6, 2018
Great beginning chapter book for your 2nd - 4th graders. Jasmine learns a lot about herself, and finds that you do what makes you happy! Great message of try and try again is embedded as well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews