The author of the 2005 Newbery Award-winning book Kira-Kira answers questions about this popular book at her home in California. She talks about where she gets her ideas from, discusses her writing techniques, and introduces the viewer to her pet doberman, Shika Kojika. -20 mins
School Library Journal - Video Pick of the Week, 5/22/06 Curriculum Connections Pick, Fall 2006

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Topics for classroom discussion and assignments:

• In the program, Cynthia Kadohata talks about her best friend, her beloved dog. Write a short essay about your best friend — or a favorite pet.  

• The author discusses the importance of keeping a timeline in telling a story, fictional or non-fictional. Choose an event in history and create a timeline — listing the events leading up to it, and after it, in chronological order. Then write a story based on this timeline.

• Cynthia Kadohata talks about taking a simple object and making it into something unbelievable. For example, she mentions tissues thrown off a roof that look like butterflies. Think of a simple object and make it turn into something unbelievable. Then write a short creative story about the transformation.

• The author says, ”Out of homes, comes stories.” Expand on this concept.

• The author says, “Life is full of hope and beauty.” Write your thoughts about this statement.

• Cynthia Kadohata is extremely optimistic. Write an essay on someone in your own life who is also optimistic and hopeful, whether it’s a family member, friend or acquaintance. Questions: Is this person someone it’s fun to be around? Does the optimism rub off on you? Do you wish you knew more people like that?