The picture books of Keiko Sena span 50 years and nearly 100 books and counting. Growing up in postwar Japan, Sena brought an edgy, whimsical humor to the genre, and her work enjoys an enduring popularity. Every book reveals a deep understanding of children, juxtaposing charming simplicity with the satisfying bite of fairy tale grim.
Here's a small selection to understand Sena's appeal:
Her first published book, "Iyada Iyada" ("I Don't Want To!"), shares the story of Lulu, a little girl too comfortable with saying no until her favorite objects begin to say no back, creeping away and refusing to play with her. No happy ending or reconciliation makes itself known on the last page.
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