Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl

It’s time for the talent show at school, and eight-year-old Jasmine Toguchi is excited to show her stuff. But as Jasmine thinks about her strengths—tree-climbing, mochi-making, collage—none of them feel quite right to perform on stage. Jasmine’s friends already have talents: Tommy yo-yo’s, Daisy dances, and Linnie plays piano. Plus, Maggie Milsap (aka Miss Perfect) is saying she’ll have the best talent of them all.

When Jasmine’s mom introduces her to the taiko, a traditional Japanese drum, Jasmine finally finds an activity that feels just right. But will she be good enough at taiko in time to beat Maggie Milsap?  

Jasmine feels as if she is the only person in her class who isn’t talented. She also believes that all her classmates are talented and don’t have to practice. However, her sister Sophie helps Jasmine realize that “talent” doesn’t make a person good at a skill. Instead, “practice is what makes you good.” With Sophie’s encouragement and her parents’ support, Jasmine is (mostly) ready to go on stage. And most importantly, Jasmine has fun during her performance. She describes, “My arms were strong. My voice was loud. My heart lifted.” Through her experiences, Jasmine learns the distinction between being the best and trying one’s best. 

The story is suitable for fluent readers who are ready for a book with multiple plotlines. Black and white illustrations appear every two to three pages, showing Jasmine’s daily life. Many of the illustrations depict the characters’ facial expressions, which will help readers understand their emotions more clearly. Another positive aspect of the story is that most of the Japanese words are explained within the text. Additionally, readers can utilize context clues and illustrations to comprehend the meanings of unfamiliar words. For even more fun, the back of the book includes directions on how to make a hacchi-maki, a type of headband. Although Jasmine Toguchi is a series, the books do not need to be read in order because each book focuses on a distinct storyline.

Young readers will relate to Jasmine’s insecurities and admire her determination to learn a new talent. While some of the story takes place at school, readers also get a glimpse into Jasmine’s home life, where she is surrounded by supportive adults and a bossy big sister. However, all of them encourage Jasmine to try her best, and none of them expect her to be perfect. When Jasmine is afraid of making a mistake, her mom tells her, “Nobody ever died from embarrassment. I’ll be proud of you just for being on that stage.” As Jasmine learns how to play taiko, she learns the importance of practicing and having fun.  

Jasmine Toguchi, Drummer Girl is an engaging book that showcases a spunky protagonist, who is extra lovable because she’s imperfect. While young readers will enjoy the plot, adults will appreciate the story’s positive life lessons. If you’re looking to teach a child about the importance of perseverance and practice, grab a copy of the nonfiction books A Girl Named Misty: The True Story of Misty Copeland by Kelly Starling Lyons and She Persisted in Sports by Chelsea Clinton.  

 Sexual Content  

• None 

Violence  

• None

Drugs and Alcohol  

• None 

Language  

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Supernatural 

• None

Spiritual Content  

• None