on the outskirts of himeji, tucked in between rice paddies, housed in six exquisite plaster kuras, is the wonderful japan toy museum. not only is it chock full of all kinds of beautiful and interesting examples of japanese toys dating back over one hundred years, it also has many hands on exhibits and a lovely garden. as you can see, i was smitten.
himeji castle, built in the 16th century, is both beautiful and imposing. i was particularly taken by the surprisingly modernist sculptural white plaster walls with round, square and triangular shaped defensive holes perforating them.
Carin Berger is an award-winning author, designer, and illustrator. Her cut-paper collages are made using ephemera such as catalogues, old books, receipts, letters, and ticket stubs. Her book, The Little Yellow Leaf was a 2008 New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books selection, and Finding Spring was awarded the 2016 Bull-Bransom award from the National Museum of Wildlife Art of the United States. In a starred review of Finding Spring, Kirkus Reviews wrote: "Multidimensional and Magial...Exceptional, exhilarating artwork perfectly suited for a story about anticipation, discover and joy." In a starred review of Forever Friends, Kirkus wrote: "Sophisticated, sensitive, and accessible, this picture book will offer new insights and pleasures with each season." She is also the illustrator of the acclaimed Stardines Swim High across the Sky and Behold the Blod Umbrellaphant, both by Jack Prelutsky, among other books. Her newest book is Good Night! Good Night!
She lives with her family in New York City.