About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the weight of a broken promise or the realization that words have lasting consequences. It is an ideal choice for the child who has accidentally let a secret slip or is struggling with the guilt of a mistake that cannot be easily undone. Through this hauntingly beautiful Japanese folktale, children explore how one impulsive choice can change a life, and more importantly, how dedication and bravery can help mend what was broken. The story follows Minokichi, a woodcutter who encounters a supernatural Snow Woman and promises never to speak of her. Years later, he breaks that vow, causing his beloved wife to vanish. His subsequent journey to the mountain of the Wind Spirits is a powerful metaphor for taking accountability and putting in the hard work to earn back trust. While the atmospheric illustrations and ghostly elements provide a sense of wonder, the heart of the book is a masterclass in resilience and the enduring power of love within a family. It is best suited for children ages 6 to 10 who are ready for slightly more complex emotional stakes and traditional folklore structures.
