Kirk here with an inquiry from longtime Kumamoto International participant Jackie:

— start quote — Hi, I have a question for the Kumamoto International community. I have been charged with the task of developing a literature “repertoire” for the Lutheran International Primary School that will open at the Luther campus in April. I have a good background in American children’s literature, but am not well-versed in what books could represent other countries. The books must be in English, and it is helpful if they are available on amazon-japan. Wondering if any folks out there have recommendations from your home country of books (ages 5-12) that you think every kid should read. Feel free to send me a direct message or post here. If you have an author’s name to go with the title, that’s even better. Many thanks, gracias, merci, abrigado, danke, asante, and so forth! This ”repertoire” will eventually become the library at the school, so recommendations for good books that stand the test of time are appreciated. — end quote —

Please post thoughts or recommendations in a comment. :)