Literally translated, origami means "folding paper", and although it sounds simple, this classic art can produce beautiful results. It also requires a fair amount of patience and attention to detail—skills children happily cultivate as they take part in this paper craft. Origami is a craft that doesn't require glue or scissors, but it does demand some patience. With a little practice and the exceptionally clear instructions in this Klutz book by Anne Akers Johnson, children will be creating colorful little works of paper art.
The book comes with a fold-over "pouch" of colorful paper squares, built right into the front of the book for easy, organized storage. The set includes enough pieces of paper with which to create each of the book's ten origami projects a few times over, so children need not worry if they make mistakes the first time they attempt any given project (and most will). Some papers are blank on one side, while others are printed on both sides in solid and patterned designs. The projects range from basic to slightly complicated, and include a paper airplane, cute little penguin, a "star" box, and a pretty little paper picture frame. One project that requires a little more effort than the others is a frog that, if constructed properly, will hop! Most projects require using classic squares of paper, except for the "secret letter" project that involves folding a letter-size paper into an intricate little envelope. Kids can write a special note on the paper before they transform their letter into a little package that they'll enjoy watching the recipient unwrap.
Clear illustrations accompany the step-by-step instructions—especially important for this type of craft. When they are unsure about the written directions, children can look ahead to the pictures in the next step to see what a fold is supposed to look like. General tips are offered, as well as interesting little facts about the craft. Children can add details, such as eyes and a bow tie, for projects like the penguin and frog after they have finished folding. Kids quickly learn that the final results will be much prettier and more functional if they are precise and neat.
Although there are many children's origami books and kits available, too many disappoint and frustrate children with missing steps and presumptuous, confusing directions. This one is truly designed for kids. Even the layout of the book, which is roomy and uncluttered, helps make this somewhat intricate craft more accessible. Because the craft demands clear-headed thinking, the book's organized feel makes it less likely that kids will abandon the projects, and more likely to follow through the progressively more challenging projects to the end.
