This classic children's storybook is about Michiko—a little Japanese girl—who, all alone, makes the long journey from a small country village in Japan to her new home and life in Brooklyn Heights.

Michiko and her readers share many experiences—some happy, some sad, some surprising, and some just funny—as Michiko learns how life is lived in America.

Immediately Michiko learns that Japan and America are quite different—New York's tall buildings, her new house (an old brownstone), her new guardian (Mrs. Belmont), and even American food are things she must get used to.

At times Michiko finds herself frightened, or excited, or just plain bewildered about things like school, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Through Michiko, readers get the wonderful experience of rediscovering those American customs and traditions so often overlooked or taken for granted. Besides the typically American scenes and events, Michiko and her classmates also share a delightful surprise in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

Above all, Michiko's readers will see those human values of warmth, kindness, and generosity which every person in the world holds in common.