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Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
The Samurai's Gift: A Ninja's Promise is a children's picture book written by Kristi Shimada with illustrations by Eko Setiawan. The story follows Renji, a young boy who experiences nightmares in which he is falling. During the daytime, he also sees a dark figure following him. This fills him with fear and dread. To help ease Renji's fears, his parents invite his best friend, Yoshi, to spend the night. Upon Yoshi's arrival, Renji immediately notices a samurai and a blue dragon standing beside him. They are introduced as Takeshi and Nobu, Yoshi's guides. With their help, Renji confronts his fear, which takes the form of a ninja named Teru. As Renji engages with these characters, he begins to understand his fears and embarks on a journey to heal his deep trauma.
The Samurai's Gift: A Ninja's Promise is a beautifully crafted story that educates readers about trauma and fear. It explores themes such as the subconscious mind, the importance of facing one's fears, and the healing power of friendship and guidance. Having friends and family to support you during the healing process is crucial and can lead to significant personal growth. Many children and adults will relate to Renji's struggles with fear and anxiety and will appreciate the techniques offered for coping and overcoming these challenges. Kristi Shimada's narration encourages open discussions about emotions and trauma between parents and children. Additionally, her inclusion of Japanese culture and mythology enriches the story, making it engaging and culturally significant. The captivating artwork perfectly complements the narrative, bringing the characters and settings to life. This book is an informative and compelling read for anyone grappling with anxiety, fear, and the journey of healing, and acceptance.
