Bathtime for Snow Monkeys

From the critically acclaimed team behind Love in the Library comes a picture book written in haiku, offering a window into the serene and relaxing world of the snow monkeys of Nagano, Japan. Snow falls thick and cold. Nihonzaru make their way. Hot springs await them. At the Jigokudani monkey park in Nagano, nihonzaru—Japanese macaques—have a unique way of de-stressing from life in a cold climate: gathering in their very own onsen, or hot spring “spa,” to lounge and snack. Peek into this magical world in the mountains, hushed by snow, where the macaques reign over their onsen, huddling together. As a playful baby monkey splashes, the others don’t want to join in, and as the baby’s amusing antics wind down, parents and little ones reading the story will happily snuggle together like the macaques, warm and safe. Maggie Tokuda-Hall’s soothing narration, written entirely in haiku form—as befits its Japanese subject and natural themes—pairs with gorgeous illustrations by Yas Imamura. An author’s note offers insight into the habitat displacement and human intervention that led to the monkeys taking over this toasty, tranquil gathering spot.