* A review for the "My Favorite Book" column
In class, Totto-chan, a first-grader, exhibited unconventional behavior:
- She opened and closed her desk lid hundreds of times, fascinated by the school desk's drawer, which differed from the one at home.
- She stood by the window continuously, calling out to a traveling street performer.
- She continued to stand by the window, "talking" to a swallow building a nest, which was more like shouting at it.
Totto-chan consistently failed to follow her teacher's instructions, often acting strangely and unusually.
Consequently, her mother tirelessly searched for "a school that could understand her child's personality and teach her how to get along with others." This is how the book begins.
Thus, Totto-chan embarked on her journey at Tomoe school. Established by Principal Kobayashi, the school was built on deep understanding and special love for children, creating a unique environment. Totto-chan and her peers, initially children deemed "different" in spirit or physique, grew into confident, kind, and ultimately successful and free individuals.
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Tac pham ''Totto-chan ben cua so'' do Nha xuat ban Van hoc lien ket Nha Nam xuat ban. Anh: Nha Nam
As a parent of an active, easily distracted child, I sought out 'Totto-chan by the window'. The book proved enlightening, helping me understand my daughter's psychology. It taught me to respect her, communicate like Totto-chan's mother, and devise many games to help her release energy. I even pretend to talk to birds, dogs, fish, and trees, hoping to be her friend and encourage her to connect with nature more freely. Although my daughter is now in 6th grade and still has some less-than-ideal habits, I feel no sadness or worry, continuing to respect her unique thoughts. I am deeply grateful for 'Totto-chan by the window', a timely and invaluable work that found the right person.
Nguyen Khac Vien, a doctor and cultural scholar who founded the Center for Child Psychology Research, once said about this work:
"Surely every student dreams of being as fortunate as Totto-chan, attending a school like Tomoe with a principal like Mr. Kobayashi. Personally, I only hope that many teachers, educational administrators, and parents read this book to help them break free from old patterns and create 'new thinking' in caring for and educating their children."
'Totto-chan by the window' is the debut work of Japanese writer Kuroyanagi Tetsuko, based on her childhood memories at Tomoe school. Published by Kodansha in 1981, it became one of the best-selling books of all time, with 8 million copies sold in Japan and 25 million worldwide, translated into 33 languages. In 7/2025, a second part of the book was published, 42 years after the first, depicting Totto-chan's growth into adulthood.
Le Ngoc Uyen Nhi
