Onigiri: A Comforting Bite of Home and a New Favorite Book

There's something about onigiri (Japanese rice balls) that feels like a warm hug. Maybe it's the simplicity of it—just rice shaped into a perfect little triangle, ball, or, in the case of Spam musubi, a square. Or maybe it’s the memories I have of my mom making them for my school lunches, her hands moving with practiced ease as she shaped each one. (My mother always made them round!) I remember how she’d sometimes sprinkle aonori, those vibrant green seaweed flakes, on top of one, making it look so pretty. But me? I always wanted the plain one. No frills, no toppings—just the pure, comforting taste of rice. It was my favorite, and still is.

Onigiri has always been more than just food to me. It’s a connection to my Japanese heritage, a reminder of home, and a symbol of my mom’s love. So, when the book Gohan is a Work of Art by Melissa Sakamoto, illustrated by Tammy Do, arrived at the JANM Store, I was instantly drawn to it. The cover alone charmed me—the cutest little onigiri with a big smile, surrounded by cherry blossoms. 

The story follows Gohan, a plain onigiri who feels overshadowed by the fancier, more decorated rice balls at the shop. He tries to change himself, adding toppings and flair, but nothing feels right. That is, until his friend Paddy helps him see that he’s wonderful just the way he is. It’s a heartwarming tale of self-acceptance, wrapped in lively rhymes and vibrant illustrations. Plus, it weaves in elements of Japanese language and culture, making it such a delightful read for kids (and adults like me who are big kids at heart).