[Finished] Let's Chat and Discover the World of Beloved Picture Books in Japan - Traditional Japanese Children's Stories and Stories from Around the World!

Foreign families raising children in Japan are likely very interested in what picture books their kids are reading in Japanese households.
I have loved picture books since childhood, and even as an adult, just seeing them brings me comfort. The stories and illustrations of memorable picture books always seem to take me to a world of dreams.
At this event, Otonari-san* volunteers will introduce classic picture books that have been loved and passed down from parents to children in Japanese households. It will also be a chat salon where participants can share picture books that were loved during their own childhood or in their hometowns. We are very much looking forward to hearing stories about various picture books from around the world.
*Otonari-san refers to the "Otonari-san Family Friend Program (OFP)," a communication program that pairs foreign families with Japanese volunteers to deepen their interaction.
As a foreign resident raising children in Japan, you may be curious about the types of children's stories that Japanese parents read to their kids.
Even as adults, reading or simply browsing through the books we cherished as children can provide a sense of comfort. Stories that leave a lasting impression and illustrations with a unique style will always transport us to a distant fantasy world, no matter our age.
At this event, Otonari-san* volunteers will introduce classic picture books that have been loved and passed down from parents to children in Japanese households. Then, it will be a casual chat salon where participants can also share picture books they loved as children or those cherished in their hometowns. We are very much looking forward to hearing stories about various picture books from around the world.
*Otonari-san refers to volunteers involved in JII’s “Otonari-san Family Friend Program.” This communication-based program pairs foreign resident families with Japanese volunteers to foster mutual cultural understanding and support foreign families in adapting to life in Japan.