ノンタンぶらんこのせて

Summarised from reader feedback

Why children love it

Reviews on 絵本ナビ and reader letters on Kaisei's page often describe children laughing at Nontan's panic when he can't count to ten, and counting along out loud. The counting chant near the end has spread well beyond the book: readers mention hearing it at nurseries, at playground swings and at bath time. Many toddlers seem to see themselves in Nontan, who simply wants to keep playing.

What parents may appreciate

Parents value how honestly it captures the toddler dilemma of wanting a toy all to yourself while also wanting friends to play with. Several say their child started talking about turns and waiting more patiently after reading it, and that it helped with counting from one to ten. Many parents and grandparents grew up with Nontan, so it often becomes a book three generations share.

Things to consider

Nontan behaves selfishly for most of the story, which is the point, so it works best when you talk about feelings together instead of just reading straight through. One reviewer wished the frequent sound words were more polished, and the art is simple and bold rather than delicate. It is short and aimed at toddlers, so children past about five may find it babyish.