Books: Oto and the Little Yellow Train

A debut picture book from acclaimed illustrator Suharu Ogawa that captures the unbreakable connection with a beloved grandparent, and how our most cherished memories stay with us no matter where we go.

Oto is on her way home back to the city from the best summer in the Japanese countryside with her Obah-chan. She knows that summer has to come to an end, but maybe on this train ride, she can make her memories last a little longer.

For fans of My Neighbor Totoro and Last Stop on Market Street, this timeless story features hand-painted illustrations and offers a beautiful take on the perennial theme of endings and new beginnings and the complicated nature of living far away from those we love. Readers will be swept along by the lyrical cadence of the train’s rhythm, and follow Oto as she and Obah-chan make their journey from the Japanese countryside into the city to say goodbye for another season.

Acclaimed artist Suharu Ogawa’s debut work as both author and illustrator is a highly personal story with universal appeal. The classic theme of endings and new beginnings is perfect for kids going back to school or moving to a new city.