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The Sound of Silence

Katrina Goldsaito Β· 2016

Age 6-8F&P M
πŸ† The Atlantic 65 Essential (2025)
View on Open Library β†—

About This Book

Yoshio lives in noisy Tokyo. When a koto musician says his favorite sound is 'ma' β€” the silence between notes β€” Yoshio searches the city for his own favorite silence. He finds it in a snowy park.

Why This Age

The abstract concept of 'listening for silence' requires the contemplative capacity of a 6-8 year old. Connected to Japanese aesthetics and zen philosophy.

How to Use

  • Try a silence experiment: sit quietly for one minute and list every sound you hear
  • Discuss: 'What's YOUR favorite silence?'
  • Look up what 'ma' means in Japanese art and music