A love of baseball spans two countries in this volume which compares and contrasts a child's experience taking in a ballgame at the stadium with his American pop pop with watching yakyu at the dome with his Japanese ji ji. Each double-page spread uses color and placement to clearly distinguish between the two countries. Pre-game anticipation and post-game satisfaction are universal, while souvenirs, food concessions, and audience cheers are distinctive to each locale. Supplementary material offers an English/Japanese glossary and fascinating facts about differences in the game by country. A two-dimensional flat style of illustration creates a visual ambiance that feels simultaneously retro and contemporary. (Ages 3-6)

Join one little boy and his family for two ballgames—on opposite sides of the world! Includes audio!

You may know that baseball is the Great American Pastime, but did you know that it is also a beloved sport in Japan? Come along with one little boy and his grandfathers, one in America and one in Japan, as he learns about baseball and its rich, varying cultural traditions. This debut picture book from Aaron Meshon includes audio and is a home run—don’t be surprised if the vivid illustrations and energetic text leave you shouting, “LET’S PLAY YAKYU!”