Review Detail

A pocket-sized pop-up book designed to capture the imagination of readers of all ages, JAPAN is one in a series of "Panorama Pops" non-fiction published by the always-innovative Candlewick Press.

Highlighting many of the most important cultural and historical sites in Japan, the latest in the Panorama Pops series from Candlewick press is a beautiful novelty non-fiction pocket book. Explore the always-busy Shibuya area, the picturesque Mount Fuji, dazzling Golden Pavilion, and many more all from pages that fit into your pocket.

The illustrations are colorful and appealing, perhaps more so to an older reader who would appreciate the watercolor-esque landscape and cut-paper-style details. The pop-outs, with the exception of the glorious Itsukishima Shrine, were a little disappointing in that they didn't exactly "pop" up off the page. Again, this may be more appealing to an older audience.

The book has a map of the featured locations in the Tokyo area, and a larger map of southern Japan. I hope to see another title from Candlewick in the future highlighting sites of cultural and historical significance in the northern half of Japan, which was entirely left out from this book.

Perfect for fans of Japanese culture both young and old, Panorama Pops: Japan is a lovely little addition to any traveler's bookshelf.