Mottainai: Finding New Life in Old Things (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798181498976)

Hana loves her blue shirt more than anything. But one year later, it is too small. She is ready to throw it away.

Her grandmother has other ideas.

With a pair of scissors and patient hands, Obaachan shows Hana how one old shirt can become a cloth bunny, a fabric flower, and a basket handle - and how nothing is ever truly finished if you know how to look.

Mottainai (say it: "moh-tah-ee-nah-ee") is a Japanese word that carries the feeling of sadness over waste. It teaches children that value is not about newness - it is about attention, care, and imagination.

Perfect for readers ages 4-7, Mottainai is a warm, beautifully illustrated picture book that sparks conversations about sustainability, creativity, and the art of seeing possibility in everyday things.

• Introduces Japanese cultural values in an accessible, story-driven way
• Supports Social Emotional Learning (SEL): creativity, resourcefulness, gratitude
• Includes a "Try Mottainai at Home" activity page and a note for grown-ups
• Features original Japanese ehon-style illustration with a limited 5-color palette
• Part of The Japanese Ways series by Honjo Azuma

"Can YOU think of something at home that could become something new?"