ROKUBEI AND THE THOUSAND RICE BOWLS

Rokubei, a farmer by occupation and a potter by inclination, longed to devote all of his time to his hobby. When the pots and bowls and cups overrun the house, Rokubei's wife demands they be piled outside. Quite by chance, the great lord Tono Sama discovers this treasure, orders 1000 rice bowls and offers Rokubei a permanent job on his estate. For a time Rokubei and his family are happy; but after awhile, they become homesick for their old way of life. With the lord's permission, they return to the fields and a house full of pottery, no longer dissatisfied. Kazue Mizumura's graceful sketches capture the full flavor of this charming Japanese folk tale destined for an enthusiastic reception by readers in this age group, as well as younger children who will hear the story read aloud.