Today, April 2nd is Hans Christian Anderson’s birthday (April 2, 1805). He has written many fairy tales, known the world over. Since 1967, to honor his contribution to children’s literature, this day is known as International Children’s Book Day. To honor both, I am showcasing several Hans Christian Anderson books.
The first is a two volume set of books in a slipcase. There is “Anderson’s Fairy Tales”, and “Grimms’ Fairy Tales” published 1945. There are 29 stories in the Anderson book, and it is illustrated by Arthur Szyk. The Grimm book has 55 stories, and is illustrated by Fritz Kredel. Many of my childhood fairytale memories are in this set of books. I remember all of the pictures, as well.
The next book is “Christmas Stories and Legends” Compiled by Phebe A. Curtiss, published in 1916. There are two Hans Christian Anderson stories here, “The Fir Tree” about a little tree that is not happy with today, wanting to grow up too fast. He has a surprising ending. While I may be giving away the story, I am so struck with what the popping sound of a log in a fireplace, actually is. “The Little Match Girl” also has a rather difficult time.
Another Christmas story by Hans Christian Anderson is “The Steadfast Tin Soldier” 1992. There are gorgeous illustrations, and it is a perfect story to read to a child, or grandchild during the holidays. (This is granddad approved!)
This next book may be puzzling to be in today’s date. I too, am a little confused. There is National Karate Day, World Karate Day, and International Karate Day, all on different days. I conferred with my brother, and the only ‘real’ day will be October 25, not April 2, or June 17. But because of my brother, I want to also include it today, April 2. I will explain in a moment.
This book is Matsubayashi Ryu, a style of Okinawan karate by Shoshin Nagamine, published 1976. It is a step by step book with photographs describing different Kata, or positions and moves. It is a training and reference guide. This is the style of Karate that my brother excels in, and has taught many, many children who had attended his Dojo (school) of Karate.
Like teaching children to read, my brother has taught children the ways of Karate, There is much focus, and discipline, and respect in Karate. My brother teaches-and lives- the whole philosophy. He has done very well teaching young kids. The above photo is my brother and two of his students presenting moves in Okinawa for the 13th Memorial Karate-Do demonstration for the late Grand Master Shoshin Nagamine (the author of the book). Or, it may be for the Ceremonial celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the founding of Matsubayashi-Ryu Karate-Do (again, the author of the book). Both moments are entered in the book, but they are written in Japanese, and I forgot which one my brother performed in. Or both, they be be the same date.
In any event, There he was in Okinawa, teaching with his students. The phrase “Even Monkeys Fall From Trees” is evident in the picture. Much like a monkey who may make a mistake and fall to the ground, my brother made a mistake in a kata move. His arms were not matched up with his students (who were doing it right.)
He is my brother, so I can pick on him for making a mistake in front of everyone in Okinawa, but I can also show him respect, for teaching children and young adults how to dust ones self, and climb back into the tree, after falling. is no small thing. I found a great similarity to Karate and reading. Once one is taught to improve their reading, they become better in all classes; they learn easier, and can appreciate their growth. The same can be found in Karate. Once the philosophy and behavior is understood, one does not just become better in Karate moves, but also in how they walk, think, and see the world around them.
To my brother…hope he has a great sensei humor.
Librarytomes 