Sunny Seki is the author-illustrator of bilingual books on Japanese culture for children, highlighting the values of courage, selflessness, loyalty and determination as well as the value of art in the modern world. Specializing in traditional tales, he performs stories through puppetry, teaches Japanese poetry, and is a photographer as well as a writer and an illustrator. He lives with his wife Judy and their children in the Los Angeles area. He has authored several children's books including the award-winning Yuko-Chan and the Daruma Doll and The Last Kappa from Old Japan.
**Creative Child Magazine 2024 Book of the Year - Bilingual Story Books for Kids** **2024 Honorable Mention Freeman Book Awards in the Category of Children's and Young Adult Literature on East and Southeast Asia** ""Seki's lively and bright illustrations pay homage to Hokusai and his daughter's paintings and hide little surprises, such as Mt. Fuji tucked away in the background or the washi-like textures of the pages. Much of the abundant background detail in Seki's artwork takes on new meaning after reading the back matter. Highly recommended for elementary-schoolers fascinated by Japan."" —Booklist Starred Review ""A beautifully illustrated and bilingual picture book story that celebrates the power of grit and artistic expression, as it introduces young readers to a trailblazing figure who, like her famous father, left a lasting impression in the world of art. A timeless tale that teaches kids to believe in themselves and follow their passion."" — Midwest Book Review