ABOUT

We excited to let you know what to expect at the upcoming launch of the Japanese Canadian Book of ABCs on Saturday, February 7 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at Trinity Bellwoods Community Centre, 2nd Floor.

This project was funded by the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society, who have shared how pleased they are with how the book turned out. We’ve also received very positive feedback from community stakeholders, and we’re excited to be able to offer the book more widely for the first time.

While the book was created for children aged three and up, many adults have noted that it also offers a welcoming entry point into learning about the people and stories that have shaped the Japanese Canadian community.

This gathering is designed to be family-friendly, with space for all ages to browse, listen, connect, and celebrate together. Light refreshments will be provided.

REGISTER HERE

PROGRAM

1:00 p.m. — Doors Open & Book Sales

Browse, mingle, and purchase books. This will be the first public opportunity to buy a copy.

1:30–1:45 p.m. — Short Storytime for Children

A brief, informal storytime so children can feel included without needing to sit through the longer presentation.

1:45–2:30 p.m. — Time to Mingle

An opportunity to meet the artists and the content creation team, connect with community members, and continue browsing and purchasing books.

2:30–3:15 p.m. — Artist & Book Presentation

A moderated conversation with the artists about how the book came together, highlighting the intergenerational collaboration behind the project. A brief Q&A will follow.

3:15–4:00 p.m. — Closing: Book Sales & Conversation

Book signing by the artists, continued book sales, and time for informal conversation.

Book price: $20  |  Payment accepted: Cash, cheque, and credit cards

We hope you can join us on Saturday, February 7.

Meet the Artists

Kellen Hatanaka is a multidisciplinary artist whose vibrant figurative work explores sport, design, history, and Japanese Canadian identity. His practice examines race, tradition, and the sporting body, and his work has been exhibited nationally and featured in Victory Journal, ArtMaze Magazine, and Graphite Journal. He and collaborator Jon-Erik Lappano received the Governor General’s Award for Tokyo Digs a Garden (2016). He is based in Stratford, Ontario.

Mia Ohki of Métis-Nikkei heritage, originally from St. Albert, Alberta, now based in Ottawa. Her work explores mixed identity and culture through playful symbolism, personified nature, and personal storytelling. Through Mia Ohki Illustrations, founded in 2016, she has created public murals, including Protect Our Trees on Fujiya in Vancouver, and exhibited work at the Art Gallery of St. Albert.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are families and children we;come?
Yes—families and children are very welcome.

What if I only have time to pick up the book?
We’ll have a dedicated sales table located away from the presentation area, so you can drop by, purchase the book, and head out if needed.

Will the book be available online?
Currently, the book will be available for in-person purchase only at the launch. Online ordering will include shipping fees. Details to be shared later.

Do I have to stay for the whole event?
Please feel free to join us at any time between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m., at your convenience.

REGISTER HERE

LOCATION