After learning more about informal Japanese speech patterns and inflected emphasis, I wrote out a short story for a children’s book and translated into Japanese with more “childish” informal speaking. I also illustrated the book using Clip Studio Paint EX, compiling the pages into a digital pdf format. The book isn’t too complex: Maeko accidentally lost her teddy bear, Mr. Honey, and retraces her steps through her day to figure out where she misplaced him. Translating for the book allowed me to apply my skills and knowledge with the Japanese language with a more concrete outlet, especially given most Japanese children first learn informal speech as they grow up. I made it a point to include illustrations emphasizing Japanese cultural aspects such as the appearance of buses and department stores. I also highlighted universal expressions such as smiles for potential readers who can’t read Japanese to still understand the gist of the story.

Clicking on the picture of the book’s cover lets you see the full online version!