A Visual Delight and Heartwarming Tale in “Grandma’s Jungle Foot Massage”

“Grandma’s Jungle Foot Massage” revolves around two boys who live near the jungle with their grandma. Every night, they heard sounds from the jungle, which Grandma explained as the sombre cries of animals losing their homes to development. Grandma, being a skilled foot massager, decided to take action. One day, the three of them ventured into the jungle, bringing fried bananas.

Grandma even set up a spot for foot massages for the animals. The creatures were elated as the humans pampered them, and they joyfully shared yummy fried bananas.

I love that the genuine connection between humans and the jungle’s inhabitants adds a layer of authenticity to the story, making it a delightful and relatable read. The book catalyzes conversations about our responsibility to care for the environment and the positive change that can stem from acts of empathy.

Written by Ritsuko Araki and illustrated by Sanae Yamada, this picture book carries a poignant message of compassion and the transformative power of small gestures. Araki skillfully explores profound themes within the pages of this picture book. The narrative serves as a gentle reminder of the impact of human development on wildlife. The harmonious blend of the characters with the jungle underscores the importance of preserving our natural surroundings. Araki subtly weaves in environmental awareness, making it accessible and relevant for young readers.

The story was originally written in Japanese and translated by Jerry Martin, who works mostly in children’s literature. He studied Japanese language and literature before moving to Japan to teach English to children.

Sanae Yamada’s enchanting illustrations bring an extra layer of magic to this already delightful tale. Hailing from Ehime, Japan, and residing in Malaysia since 2003, Yamada’s watercolour mastery shines through. The vibrant and adorable colours leap off the pages, creating a visual feast that complements the narrative beautifully. Each stroke of the brush adds a touch of whimsy to the story, making it a joy to behold.

In conclusion, “Grandma’s Jungle Foot Massage” is an enchanting journey that beautifully imparts lessons on environmental stewardship and the enduring impact of simple acts of kindness. This picture book is a must-read for those seeking both entertainment and meaningful takeaways.

Title: Grandma’s Jungle Foot Massage
Cover: Hardcover
Publisher: Oyez!Books

This book can be purchased from the Museum of Picture Book Art, GMBB, Jalan Robertson, KL.