Waiting for Hanami
Waiting for Hanami by J. P. Takahashi is a children’s book published by HarperCollins Publishers on February 4, 2025. This 40-page edition is presented in English and tells the story of two cousins who look forward to their family reunion during the cherry blossom festival. As they navigate their nerves on the big day, they help each other explore their family tree, ultimately fostering new connections amidst the celebration.
Readers will find a narrative that highlights the importance of family and cultural traditions, reflecting the experiences of a Japanese American and African American extended family. The story captures the excitement of spring and the blossoming of relationships, making it a meaningful addition for multicultural families. Through the lens of the cherry blossom festival, the book emphasizes the joy of discovering one’s heritage and the bonds that unite us.
Official synopsis Publisher
J. P. Takahashi and HifuMiyo deliver a moving story about two cousins who have eagerly awaited their big mixed-family reunion at the cherry blossom festival. But when nerves strike on the day, they help each other learn more about their family tree, and together they watch new bonds blossom.
Spring has finally come.
Sai has been waiting all year for the trees’ green buds to turn pink. For the cherry blossoms to finally burst open. For her big family reunion at the sakura festival.
Relatives from far and wide are gathering at last, but there are some family members she recognizes only from video screens and phone calls. Among the crowd, Sai seems to shrink down. . . .
Until she meets her cousin Avi. It’s an instant click. And together, they dream up a special way to dive deep into their family history–and honor the blooming of new connections.
Waiting for Hanami is a celebration of merging cultural traditions that perfectly reflects the cousin’s Japanese American and African American extended family. An ideal next read for multicultural families everywhere!
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