George Washington Middle School, 2023
“Our students were so excited to learn the art of drawing Manga characters; they soaked up every minute of instruction and many of their end results were amazing. We have true talent at our campuses. Thank you to Misako for bringing out their talent.”
Salvador Garcia Middle School, 2023
“I had about 40 students who participated in the event. The students really enjoyed learning how to draw Manga characters and even more so that multiple characters were presented. We currently do not have an Art class at my campus, so this opportunity was amazing for our students to participate in. This is the 3rd time we have Misako, and there were several students who have participated every time because they love her and her presentation.”
Manitowoc Public Library, 2023
“Misako’s presentation was wonderful and enjoyable. Her energy and enthusiasm sparked excitement in the participants! It was a nice touch that she shared her personal journey with its obstacles and challenges. I think hearing that was inspiring for the participants.”
The Dalton School, NYC 2023
“Every year Misako steals the show at our annual HeroCon with her high energy drawing lessons that are accessible and engaging for students of all ages. Students not only learn how to draw, they also leave feeling confident and empowered in themselves as artists.”
Forest North Elementary, Austin, TX 2022
“Misako was so engaging & my students loved her behind-the-scenes peek at Bounce Back’s creation, a manga drawing lesson, and learning Japanese culture. I have ten copies of Bounce Back in my library and they’re all always checked out, months later!”
Friends School of Baltimore, 2022
“Misako is a ball of energy and positivity that our students absolutely adored! Our younger students were fascinated with a behind the scenes look at how the art was made for Bounce Back. They also loved participating in the manga drawing lessons. Not only did they create their own manga drawings, they directed Misako how to draw a character! Our high school students loved having the opportunity to have conversations with an expert in Japanese pop culture. We can’t wait for the next book and then to have Misako back to Baltimore!”
Craig Thompson
“Many times, Misako Rocks has encouraged me with the phrase ‘Ganbatte’ – roughly translating to ‘Go for it!’ in Japanese. Her characters – especially Jermain – impart this same inspiring energy… take-charge girls that don’t wimp out in the face of adversity!”
Paul Gravett
”Detective Jermain is a fresh-faced Nancy Drew for today’s manga generation, a sassy teen sleuth with multiple mysteries to solve: why are her teachers behaving so weirdly? which of her two childhood playmates should she choose as her boyfriend? and toughest of all, can she become as great a detective as her ex-Dad? Misako Rocks! will hook you with her blend of intriguing detective thriller with warm- hearted high-school romance.“
Booklist
“A fast-paced and well-executed story…”
Kirkus Reviews
“Manga with a heavy dose of cute…this should find a ready crowd of action-oriented shojo fans.”
Publishers Weekly
“An appealing mix of adventure, female empowerment and romance brought alive by Takashima’s vibrant illustration”
School Library Journal
“Great for younger manga readers.”