Japanese culture lauded
By Zenaida Serrano
Advertiser Staff Writer
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| Tidbits about Japanese practices and beliefs abound in "Kokoro: Cherished Japanese Traditions in Hawai'i."
Buy book early for a discount How to get a copy of "Kokoro: Cherished Japanese Traditions in Hawai'i" Order a book via the presale for $12 through Dec. 1. To secure a copy, send in an order form, available by calling 988-3388, 521-2175 or 949-3240. Purchase a book at regular price, $16.99, at bookstores in mid-December. |
Didn't know that? Here's another: Karaoke literally means "empty voice orchestra," referring to a prerecorded accompaniment for singers. Originally, it was used by professional singers to practice their songs before recording with a live orchestra.
Such tidbits about Japanese practices and beliefs abound in "Kokoro: Cherished Japanese Traditions in Hawai'i," compiled by the Japanese Women's Society of Honolulu book committee. Presale orders are being taken through Dec. 1.
The book publication caps off a one-year celebration of the organization's 50th anniversary.
"We want to generate interest in things Japanese and ... to perpetuate the Japanese culture," said Betty Totoki, co-chairwoman of the book committee.
But the book isn't just for those with Japanese ties, said Naomi Kanna, the society's board publicity chairwoman.
"For the non-Japanese, it can really give them insight into the local Japanese culture," Kanna said.
Book highlights include celebrations such as the Japanese New Year and O-bon traditions; craft ideas, including fabric art, the cord-tying art of mizuhiki and the paper-folding art of origami; and recipes from popular Japanese restaurants, such as misoyaki butterfish from chef Hiroshi Fukui of L'Uraku Restaurant.
Readers will also find information on language, etiquette, home decor with a Japanese accent, and more.
"It's great having all this information in a nutshell at your fingertips," said Lillian Yajima, general chairwoman of the 50th anniversary events.
Proceeds from book sales will go to scholarships for graduate students in the field of gerontology.
Reach Zenaida Serrano at 535-8174 or zserrano@honoluluadvertiser.com.
