manekiniki

[manekiniki]

Ume box!

Well, is anyone else excited about this one? or is it just me? Well, hopefully it isn’t, and if it is; what is wrong with you guys?! Ahem, if you’ve been paying attention, or if you know me even a little bit then you know that Sakura is probably my favorite thing about Japan. it is what inspired me to look further into the culture and discover more about it, and really made me love the Japan. so aside from being such a beautiful looking blossom, it holds a special place in my heart. Now knowing Sakura, you should know about Hanami; but did you know it wasn’t Sakura that started off the tradition of Hanami? nope, it was Ume, or the plum blossom! Ume bloom when the weather is still cold which is why it represents vitality, and like we learned with last months box its associated with good fortune and thought to ward off evil spirits. It also suggest the start of spring and the end of winter (which honestly is a far more lovely way to welcome spring than wondering if a burrowing ground hog has seen it’s shadow..I’m just saying) Without further ado, click below and see what lovely items made its way to our homes this month.

The first item in the box is this lovely small mino-yaki ceramic plum blossom plate. It is brightly colored, and welcomes brightness to the gloom of winter might have settled into your home. I love the bright pink/orange of the plum blossoms as well as the bright green rim around the edges. 

1 mino-yaki ceramic plum blossom Chawan rice bowl. The word “Chawan” actually means tea bowl, because these bowls were originally used for drinking tea. Now days, however, They are used for rice! Okay so, you’re probably wondering why this bowl look a little...odd. Sadly when I unwrapped the bubble wrap, i saw that my bowl arrived cracked right in half. It’s something that is entirely possible to happen when these delicate, beautiful items, are making their way from japan to the united states. I wanted you to see both outside and inside of this bowl, because it is quite beautiful. The outside has the same colors incorporated as the small dish, and the inside has small lumps so the sticky rice doesn’t get stuck to the bowl. Remember how I always say Kizuna box has amazing customer service? Well, they’ve contacted me to let me know they’d like to replace the broken bowl and will be adding it to my next subscription box. I told you, amazing!

Next we have this Mino-yaki ceramic plum blossom chopstick rest. It is shaped like a real plum blossom, is a light pinkish color and is so pretty! to go with this lovely chop stick rest, we have....

....Plum blossom natural wooden chopsticks! The top side of these chopsticks have a beautiful plum blossom design. You guessed it, they match the bowl and plate! I’m probably weird here, but I love that about kizuna box. Their items always match!

Speaking of matching, this lovely lacquered plum blossom small tray. It is ideal of tea time, and can withstand temperatures of 80 degrees celsius, or 176 degrees fahrenheit, and is cold resistant -20 degrees celsius and -4 degrees fahrenheit.

This month’s cloth is a Plum blossom Tenugui. This is traditional type of japanese cloths that are unhemmed. This is due to the fact that they can be used for a number of things like wiping and cleaning your hands and body, wrapping things, and using it as a headband. talk about a versatile cloth! 

next we have, and so excited i am, a Chirimen plum blossom hand made keychain! Chirimen is a traditional japanese crepe. The box included either a red or, as pictured, pink plum blossom. I plan to add this to my cellphone as a cellphone charm as I have a slight obsession with those things. When you have anxiety, those things are plenty distracting and helpful.

In last months box we talked about sho-chiku-bai, and here we have a sho-chiku-bai pochibukuro envelope. These envelopes are used for children’s new years monetary gifts, tips, message cards and other such needs. 

I’m also excited about this “here comes the spring” post card. I tend to use these in my scrap book because they are cute, adorable, and add beauty to my jumbled mess of a scapbook. This poastcard portrays a cat standing at a traditional japanese house, looking at a bush warbler that is setting in a plum blossom tree. 

Last but not least, this months japanese snack item is a cheese and plum flavored rice cracker. There are 5 pieces inside. (and they taste so good!)

And there we have February’s Ume (the plum blossom) box! I hoped you enjoyed viewing the items as much as i enjoyed receiving them. I think it’s safe to say that the Ume is close second to the sakura for me, especially now that i’ve learned more about it. If you haven’t yet, what in the world are you waiting for!? Subscribe!

[manekiniki]

Engimono Box

Kizuna’s January 2018 box is the Engimono or The Good luck symbol box! I don’t know about you, but I need all of the luck I can get. Seriously, bad luck runs in my family and there is a constant influx of crap things that happen to us on a daily basis. It’s why I have a vast collection of Manekineko and daruma. I was so hyped to see what this box included and what new good luck charms I could add to my life. There are various symbols in japan that are considered to be good luck, and this box introduces you to them. In case, like me, you weren’t sure what “engimono” means they are small items that represent luck, happiness, wealth, good fortune and more. TO learn more, lets jump right along.

A few popular symbols I’ve listed above, like the maneki neko or the beckoning car which represents good luck and wealth and the Daruma doll that stand for good luck and perseverance. There are also Shichi fukujin/ the seven gods of luck for good luck and prosperity, Mt Fuji for sacrality and good luck, and Sho-chiku-bai/ pine-bamboo-plum which is an auspicious combination that is represented in a lot of festive decorations, crests, and textile designs. They stand for longevity, flexibility and vitality. The items included in this box represent each of these in it’s own way.. 

The first item in the pamphlet is this mino-yaki zodiac yunomi tea cup! 2018 is the year of the dog according to Japanese zodiac, and it is said that having the years zodiac animal on items in your house will bring in good luck. The dog on the cup also features the Sho-chiku-bai trio! yunomi teacups are used for daily use and informal tea drinking. Bonus! it also has a calendar on the other side!

Next we have this lacquered plum blossom shiruwan bowl. Shiruwan literally translates to mean soup bowls. They are traditionally used to serve miso soup, but can also be used for other soups and rice. Because they are among the first to bloom in the year, plum blossoms are known to represent the start of the spring and are associated with good fortune and warding off evil spirits.

Seto-yaki maneki neko figurine (YAY!) Each enimono box contained either a silver or gold maneki neko. The Golden maneki neko represents wealth and the silver represents fulfilment. My box contained a silver maneki neko. It is said that a raised right paw invites money and good fortune and the raised left paw invites people. I don’t actually have one like this so I’m pleased to add it to my collection. 

Another item in this months box was a paper maneki neko gift box. They invite you to use this for any family and friends that share your interest in japanese culture, but I think I’ll save this for my birthday and have will use it for my gift. xD

I’ve come to collect furoshiki cloths, and I’m always amazed at how many there are being that i don’t own a duplicate of any of the ones I already own. This one is an added bonus since it goes perfectly with my maneki neko collection, and I’m thinking of using it to line the shelf that houses said collection.

Stationary lovers rejoice! Kizuna box has some of the nicest stationary items in their boxes, and I loved this months. First up is the Mt. Fuji post-it notes. In 2013 mt. fuji was listed as a Unesco world heritage site for being an object of worship and wellspring of art. There is a belief in japanese culture that if you see mt. fuji in your first dream of the year, you will have very good luck! Also pictures is a Daruma Eraser. This eraser already has an eye colored in, but generally the owner of the daruma makes a wish or goal and colors in one eye. when the wish come true of the goal is complete, the other eye is colored in. 

Next we have a New Year greeting car. This box contains 1 of 20 designs and features one of the lucky symbols and many others that might be lesser known overseas. The one in my box is pink and shows cranes flying, and some blossoms in the bottom right corner. 

Last but certainly not least the enigmono box contains these shichi fukujin assorted rice crackers. This package contains 9 small rice crackers inside in various flavors such as Butter, Shrimp, Seaweed, Shiso leaves, Chili pepper, cheese, and curry! Shichi Fukujin is a widely worshiped group of seven deities in Japan. Each one of them stans for a different sort of luck or virtue such as Honesty, Fortune, joy, Dignity, Longevity, Wisdom, and Happiness. 

And there we have it January’s Engimono box! As always Kizuna box is a lovely subscription box with great customer service, great items, and lovely information on Japan, their Culture, and the items included.

[manekiniki]

Holiday Box

December was Kizuna box’s winter holiday box. Much like the nekobox, I forgot the pamphlet for this box upstairs as well. Moreover I’m late, again. I seem to be failing left and right (especially because I still have to review the kizuna January box as well..Hang with me,.. I’ll get there eventually. For now, please enjoy the kizuna december box. 

So first is a little post card that wishes all of the kizuna box subscribers a happy 2018. I love when Kizuna box includes things like this in their boxes cause it just makes everything seem more close knit, and friend/family like. We also have some stickers. I think there were multiple types that you could receive. I got Daruma (which I love and have already found a place in my planner.)

Next I had this Cat notepad! I realized after looking at the pamphlet that this wasn’t just a normal part of the box! Yeah I was delayed in seeing the note posted on the back of it. guys! this was my 6th box with nekobox! I also found it super sweet of them to give me a special little gift for it, their kind words made it a worthy celebration and I hope to have many more months with you all!

Daruma! Sorry, I’m just really excited! if you know me, you know that my luck isn’t particularly the best around. Because of this I have a love for japanese good luck charms like manekineko and the daruma. Before receiving this, I had 3 others that I had previously purchased from the nekobox shop, but I was still super excited and happy to receive another. With Daruma, you color in one eye when making a wish or goal, and the other eye doesn’t get colored in until your wish/goal is established.

The december box’s cloth is a furushiki cloth. This particular one shows the image of a snowy field with snowflakes falling, and a little snow rabbit in the corner. But my favorite part if the only color on the cloth (aside from the edging) and thats the tree with bright red and white flowers.

These are the snacks that they include in each months box. This months are types of rice crackers! They were Very yummy, but due to not having the pamphlet, I can’t even tell you what flavors. One had shrimp! I remember that much. I’m so sorry for failing.

Next we have a winter/holiday greeting card. There were multiple cards that you could have gotten; Mine appears to have a japanese temple and tiny little santas all around the front of it. This card is so beautiful. I know its meant to be sent, but honestly I’m going to be putting it in my scrapbook so that I don’t have to part with it. 

The final item in the box I saved for last as it is meant to be the star of the box, I believe. Its a sake set! Now I don’t drink, and I havent ever, but I love how beautiful japanese sake bottles and sets are. I have this one set up on one of my shelves as decoration. It’s so pretty, I’m not sure my picture shows it quite right, but there are small groves in it and the bottle has indents to make it easier to hold and pour.

And there you have it. The kizuna december box! I hope you enjoyed reading and viewing it as much as I did when receiving it. I am still subscribed to kizuna box, and I just have to say that it was a very hard choice. It doesn’t mean that I liked it better than nekobox, I actually loved them both for their own reasons. It honestly came down to my inability to make a choice and so i wrote them down put them in a hat and picked. Due to this years savings, I had to drop a subbox that way I would actually have an extra $50 a month. I’m glad to have at least one box now, this way I still get my japan fix, and the happiness keeps coming. Thank you kizuna box for the smile your subscripton box gives me every month. 

If you havent yet, please do subscribe. These sub boxes only exist because we order them. without us, they wouldn’t be here and to think that they wouldn’t be is a really sad thought.

[manekiniki]

Winter wonderland Box

Nekobox’s December was the winter wonderland box! In the event you don’t own a calendar you can clearly see that I am Late. December and the start of January put me behind. Add to it that I’m currently sick and called into work for the first time in 3 years, yeah it’s been crazy. I finally had a moment to sit down and write this and wouldn’t you know? I left the lovely pamphlet pictured above in the room with a sleeping boyfriend and dog. Because of this, my review might not be as informative as it usually is, but I’ll do my best, and I’ll even update it later once the sleeping awake! For now, click below! (even if the words suck, the pictures are still pretty!)

First item up is this wabisabi beautiful plate. It’s a cream colored pate with light green accents on it. My favorite thing about this place is how it isn’t perfectly shaped. It has a very obvious imperfect appearance that just stands out to me. I love it.

Another plate in the box is a mini patterned plate. There are three designs that you could have received. Mine is the wave pattern, which i was excited about as it matches a bowl I already have. Its a small indigo colored plate that can be used for sauces or side dishes. (sauce to dip my scallion pancakes in, anyone?!)

This adorable squirrel and tree cloth. This design is something that is totally my style. I love how adorable it is! and the squirrel, though it loos more like a hedge hog to me, is just so cute and squishy. Now this cloth is not a furoshiki cloth, but its more of a hand, face, or dish towel. It absorbs water fantastically (trust me i’ve had time to use it) and I love it for drying my face after washing it.

Decembers box also included a cup, which i love when there is a cup included (please never stop sending cups!) This peony cup comes in 1 of 2 designs. Now i haven’t seen the other, but this one is taller, and seems to be your basic tea cup style (gorgeous though!) and is a blue color with white stenciling of peonies.

Another favorite item from this box is this adorable little bird chopstick rest. This came in either blue or grey, and I got the blue one. It’s a tiny little adorable thing, and only the 2nd chopstick rest I own. So i’m pleased to add it to my collection. 

Last but certainly not least is this beautiful print done by none other than nekobox themselves! It shows a vintage winter scene, and i love that there are very little colors used. The bright red umbrella, and the black and blue; its just gorgeous! 

And there you have it. My December nekobox brought joy to my holiday season. I loved the blues (blue christmas is my favorite christmas song) and the almost classic beauty of it all. Now, I have to share that this was my finale Nekobox, at least for the time being. (I’m super sad i missed out on the year of the dog box, and i’ll be watching the shop for the items, if not the box. AND THE OWL BOX. OWLS ARE MY FAVORITE! =( ) Now I didn’t do it because i didn’t like the products. My face when my nekobox came is all someone needed to see to know i love it. My happy dance at work when I knew I had one at home waiting to be opened, still had my coworkers laughing. This year I need to start saving money for things coming in the future (I cant say what... I’m waiting for the right time) But Nekobox, if you’re reading this.. I miss you! Also, I can without a doubt say that I’ll be back in the future! 

As for the rest of you, SUBSCRIBE! seriously. you won’t be disappointed. 

[manekiniki]

The Momiji Box

Finally, I’ve come to Kizuna Box’s Momji box. I am sorry that it took me so long to get this review up. A month late. I honestly planned to get it up sooner but sometimes life takes hold and, well plans never go as planned. I am happy to share it with everyone now though, because it truly is a gorgeous box. As always, Kizuna box out did themselves by bringing Japan to our doorsteps. TO see what came in the momiji box, and maybe what it is; click!

Japan in autumn, is said to be beautiful once the autumn foliage comes to show itself., and according to Kizuna box the Autumn foliage is to Japanese autumn, what cherry blossoms are to the spring. One of the most loved, and the one that represents most is the Momiji, or the japanese maple. Its vibrant crimson foliage is considered the most iconic symbol of japans autumn. Just thinking about it brings me joy as I imagine the sight of Japan in Autumn. With that, lets see what curations Kizuna box brought to us this month

Like all boxes previously Kizuna box adds a snack or two to their lifestyle boxes for subscribers to enjoy. November’s included Momiji rice crackers, and purple sweet potato cookies. I have to say that, despite not reviewing this in a timely manner, I did get to try these and they’re both so good. I have to say that the rice crackers were probably my favorite though as there seemed to be a lot of flavor that bit at your tongue. 

Next we got mini Momiji message cards. There are 2 designs that you could have received. I love stationary, and as someone who is constantly making lists and writing notes, I always appreciate any sort of stationary or paper that helps with this. 

Before I tell you more about this, I have to say that this card is probably one of the most beautiful that i’ve seen. I know its meant to be sent to someone, but I think i’m going to have to be selfish and keep it for myself. This car is made using embossing techniques, so the designs are slightly raised giving the card a lovely texture. The colors are bright and vibrant and honestly just gorgeous. There were 3 different designs that could have been found in your box. They feature maiko and famous attractions in Kyoto during different seasons. 

I’m not sure if my picture did these chopsticks justice, but there are beautiful metallic like momiji on the top of them. They are lacquered natural wood chopsticks  from a series with various designs from the fukui-based manufacturer - tanaka hashiten. 

Im honestly never disappointed in the cloths that are included in the kizuna boxes. This months is a Furoshiki cloth, that are used as a traditional japanese wrapping cloths for gifts, clothes and just about anything. This one features momiji leaves and the japanese symbolic pattern of seigaiha (sea waves). You would have received either pink or green. I got the pink and I feel like it mwaks the colors in the leaves pop!

Next we have this adorable momiji ceramic plate. This plate came in either pink or green. I love that they seemed to keep with a matching mindset and gave me pink to match my furoshiki. This plate is ideal for sauces or small desserts and can also be used as a tea bag coaster or a chopstick rest.

Last but not least, and probably one of my favorites for this box is this mino-yaki momiji ceramic tea cup. For this particular item you would have received either a tea cup, or a tea bowl. I got the cup, and i’m quite please as if you noticed way back in september? neko box had a matcha box and i received a bowl. Now i have a tea cup and bowl. This particular cup is quite gorgeous in it design and coloring. Sencha tea cups are small cups that are perfect for small tea parties, get-togethers, or special occasions. Each are hand-crafted and have variances because of this. 

With that we come to an end of our momiji box. As always kizuna box has outdone themselves. If you are really interested in japan, and want to feel like you are a part of a family, then you should sincerely consider subscribing to Kizuna box. They are always curating beautiful items, and they treat their customers as if they are their dearest friends, or family. head to their instagram or website (re-discoveryjapan.net) and subscribe! If the lifestyle items arent for you, they also have a snack box!

[manekiniki]

The Cat box

Not to be confused with the fact that the subscription box is called the nekobox, novembers theme was the cat box! This is a theme that subscribers have been waiting for since the start of nekobox. If they’re like me they collect maneki neko and were hoping there would be one to satisfy our collection. Did we get what we were hoping for? Take a look and find out!

This month is no different in keeping with the art print trend. This month nekobox created a maneki neko art print that shows varying statues and ema boards that they were inspired by when visiting the maneki neko temple: Gotokuji Temple in Setagaya. 

Next we have these cute little classiky coasters. The design was in collaboration with Tomotake, and feature a black cat print that are specifically letterpress printed onto a soft cushion paper. These are coasters but I’m not sure I want a drink to seep in and ruin these, so I’ll probably use them more for show. Following that we have some cute little chopsticks, you can never have too many. These are wooden and show a happy cat and (yay) sakura blossoms!

The next item in this box is a happy cat plate! These are minoyaki porcelain and features chubby little grinning happy cats. use for show, or for any dish you need to eat. Its a solid plate and down right adorable.

So, if you’re like me and stalk the nekobox shop for new items (whether you have the funds for it or not) Then this little gem will look familiar to you. These happy cat cups (which i’ve been dying to buy, by the way) come in one of two colors. Pink, as shown, or a light green color. Drink your tea, or juice, or whatever you want to and feel the joy this happy cat brings you.

Last, but certainly not least is the item we’ve all been waiting for! The maneki Neko! This smiling lucky cat is hand painted and comes in two different styles. These are said to bring you luck with money, happiness, and general good fortune! He now sits pretty with the other maneki neko I own.

[manekiniki]

Mythical Creatures box

I’m very very behind. Taking care of a puppy is like taking care of a child. Not only have I been behind on this but so so much else. However I’m here now and I bring to you Octobers nekobox! Octobers theme was Mythical Creatures, and it came just in time for halloween. Click the read more to, well, read more!

So, starting off I was SUPER excited about this months box. I love mythical creatures of any variety, but a month previous I had started reading up on Japanese Yokai and was glad that this might correspond with the box. To get started we have:

This nine-tail fox art print. Ever since watching ten miles of cherryblossom, Kitsune have intrigued me, and this print is quite gorgeous. It features a nine-tail fox (tenko) and was created by the nekobox team. Mine is a little bent in the corner because it was mailed separate from my box, but I don’t mind. It’ll straighten out once framed. 

A Yokai Ukiyo-E Postcard Print! This is one of 15 designs that you could have received in Octobers box. They are reproductions of the Ukiyo-E woodblock prints by Kuniyoshi Utagawa. It features scary mythical creatures that were popular during the edo period.

There was (yay!) a textile in this months box. This month it was a cloth featureing japanese dragons with clouds. Dragons are said to be protectors of buddhist lore in Japan, and can be found regularly on the ceilings of zen buddihist temples. This s a traditional guaze cloth that softens with use. 

Next we have a hand painted ceramic spoon that features a dancing lion. I’m not going to lie, I Originally thought this was a dragon. It wasn’t until I read the included pamphlet that I realized my mistake. This is beautiful and brightly colored, and was painted by kutaniyaki, 

A few months ago the Kizuna box had a Otsukimi box, that told us the legend of the bunny on the moon. This plate features that exact bunny holding a mochi-pounding mallet. The rabbit is a symbol of the otsukimi festival and is said to bring you luck the rest of the year. Trust me, I need it. I also love the wave pattern on the edges!

Last but not least, Its actually my favorite in this months box, is the Protective Crane Ornament. The pamphlet says that this hand painted crane will protect you and bring you good luck for years to come. I’m always happy with anything that will bring me luck, because man I have some of the worst luck and can use all the good fortune i can get. The crane represents longevity and good luck because legend says that it is thought to live for 1000 years.

And this concludes the mythical creatures box. The items were all unique and will hold a place on my heart for years to come. If youre interested in the neko box, they have monthly, tri-monthly, and 6 month subscriptions. They also (in october actually) rolled out a stationary box called the Zakka kit! Head over to their website to check them out. 

[manekiniki]

Kizuna Box October 2017

Hey everyone, sorry for the delay with this. If you don’t follow me on Instagram, Will and I jumped on an opportunity to adopt a puppy. We were wanting to sometime after christmas, but the rehoming fee was only $75 and we couldn’t pass that up. Due to that, we had to pick him up, get all the items we’d need for him and then try and get him settled into a new home; It left me with very little sleep and very little time to get this done. However we aren’t here to talk about the pup we’re here to talk about Kizuna’s October box; The Autumn box! To read more and find out about the items curated in this months Kizuna box, Click below. 

October’s Kizuna box welcomes us into Autumn by introducing us to Autumn in Japan with beautiful Floral ceramics and homewares. The items in this box are influenced by the Seven flowers of Autumn or Aik no Nanakuse. These flowers are often the topic of many Haiku and other Japanese literature, though not often known outside Japan. These flowers include Hagi (bush clover), Obana (Japanese pampas grass), Kuzu (Japanese arrow root), Nadeshiko (large pink), Ominaeshi (golden lace flower), Fujibakama (boneset) and kikyo (Japanese Bell flower.) Outside of these flowers the Cosmos (also known as Autumns Cherry blossom) and the Ginkgo Tree are a big part of Japan in the Autumn.

The First item that caught my eye in this months box was this beautiful Cosmos bowl. After seeing it, I totally understand why its referred to as Autumns Sakura. They appear to be just as beautiful and eye catching, and if you know me you know I have a weakness for Sakuras, so it’s not surprised that this caught my eye first. It’s a good sized bowl, perfect for any dish you plan to eat with it. It origionated from the Gifu Prefecture, mino-yaki with a history said to date back to 1300 years ago. 

Unsurprising I’m sure, but this lovely Sakura spoon is the perfect companion for the cosmos bowl. The Sakura and Cosmos go rather well together and compliment each other. Plus if you decide to use your bowl for soup or cereal, you already know which spoon to use with it!

The next two items on this months box are Autumn themed stickers. Each box received one sheet our of 4 different sticker sheets. The one in my box contains images of cats and leaves. Perfect for fall, but also perfect for my planner and scrap book. I can’t wait to use them! The other item in this picture is the Princess Daruma and Ginkgo Postcard. illustrated on the postcard of two princess Daruma standing before ginkgo trees. Other than being the official tree of Tokyo, the Ginkgo tree is also a symbol of Autumn in Japan.

The snack included in this months box are Dried Persimmons (Hoshigaki.) According to the pamphlet Persimmons are the ultimate fruit of Autumn. The japanese have a long tradition of drying persimmons and it has been channeled into this award winning product. They also let you know that it pairs perfectly with some tea. Now i’ve never had a persimmon, though I love fruit, so i’m excited to try this.

This next item I think is going to end up being one of my favorited. It’s a Hagi Shirayuki cloth. The Hagi or bush clover is one of the seven flowers of autumn. The cloth itself is a fusion of traditions from kyoto and nara, namely the Yuzen dyeing technique and special cotton cloth. Kizuna box was also incredibly helpful by included a copy of different uses of the cloth with each box. The uses are many, but a few include a face cloth, a wash cloth, hand towel or a dish towel. According to the included sheet, this cloth is great for people with sensitive skin (like me!) So I think i’m intrigued to try this as a face cloth.

The second ceramic piece in this box is the Seto-Yaki Kikyo small ceramic bowl. Kikyo is the Japanese bellflower, and also a celebrated ‘seven flowers of autumn.’ Unlike the Cosmos bowl, this bowl is tiny and seems best for sauces or dips. 

Last, but certainly not least is this beautiful Mount fuji Tea storage Tin. The container itself is tin, but when you remove the metal top, there is a nice soft plastic seal cover to keep your tea fresh. The outer layer is a durable thick Washi that has Mount Fuji and autumn leaves illustrated on it. 

And there you have it, The Kizuna Autumn Lifestyle box! As always, Kizuna box did not disappoint. If you haven’t signed up yet, (and I mean really, WHY HAVENT YOU?!) Then you should head over to their instagram (@kizunabox) Click the link in their bio and sign up! It’s entirely worth it for the price, and you won’t be disappointed in the items you receive. Again I am sorry it took me so long to get this post up and running but I hope you enjoyed it still!

[manekiniki]

Forest Bathing Box

Hey guys, sorry for the delay with this one. I received it on Thursday but am only just now getting around to writing this review. Insomnia is a killer and I’ve been trying to catch up (and failing at) sleep. SO! This months neko box is called the forest bathing box. In Japan it’s known as Shinrin Yoku, and its simply put, the act of de-stressing yourself in a forest atmosphere. It’s supposed to help you calm down, relax, and simply let your stresses go. Neko box has curated items that are nature inspired so that you can zen out in the comfort of your own home. To see more, click below~

According to the Kawa zine in this months box, Forest bathing is an ancient Japanese tradition that only recieved it’s name “shinrin Yoku” in the 1980s. It’s popularity has spread overseas and if you’re interested, you can find groups in your area to go with, if you aren’t interested in trying it on your own. To quote, “Forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, is the Japanese art of ‘taking in the atmosphere of the forest.’ It’s like a walking meditation; good for the mind, body and soul. Forest bathing is the perfect antidote to a stressful and busy city life. Personally I could totally use some of that. For now, Lets take a look at the items inside that will help make your home a little more outdoors-y.

The first items I came across in the forest bathing box is the Card that lists all the items inside, and a little bit about each, as well as a total cost of the box; this months is retailed at $71.00. The Kawa Magazine is a zine designed, and produced by Neko box. It gives you insight to the subject matter the box is based on as well as places in Japan to visit in order to experience the subject at hand. This months Kawa Zine introduces you to What forest bathing is, How it works, what to take with you; as well as 3 areas to experience it in. As an ending, they also give you a few mindfulness exercises! The third item pictures is a print also created and produced by neko box. This one is of a person taking part in forest bathing. I love the prints as it’s something I can add to my scrap book.

This next item is a Green Magnolia Dish. If you subscribed, or bought from their shop, the Hanami box; This plate will look familiar to you. In the hanami box we received a pink sakura dish (that I loved) this time the dish is a beautiful light green color and rather than sakura has magnolia’s on the inside. Its just the right size for snacking on fruit and nuts in the afternoon, or sweets during your tea. This dish is mino-yaki porcelain, made in the Gifu prefecture. 

The next item out of the box is a beautiful colored Teal textured cup. It has a smooth glaze on it thats almost a contrast to the textured grooves, giving it a relaxing effect. It can be used for hot or cold drinks of your choosing. 

According to the Card this item is listed as a Chrysanthemum Vase, and explained later that they like using Sake bottles as vases. I’ve seen a few posts here and there about not all the bottles being Chrysanthemum, and that it wasn’t listed on the card. Some people received White bottles with Villages, and some had blue with white Chrysanthemums. Personally, I’m not sure the bottle I received is Chrysanthemums. Will and I agree that it looks more like Bamboo. Either way, Its my favorite item. I find it to be gorgeous. I’m not sure the above picture does it justice, but it has indents on the sides for a better hold, and the lip as a slight dip for better pouring. It’s made in the famous pottery town of arita, which has a 400 year history in ceramics. I’ve included a couple of pictures at super odd angles to try and show you the indents included. 

^-^

The final Item for the box was supposed to be Nature Letterpress Coasters, but due to stock issues they replaced the coasters with this beautiful Tenugui Cloth by Nuno Iroha. The cloth is mostly white, features classic Japanese symbols, and has a traditional frayed edge. The frayed edging is supposed to make the cloth easier to dry. 

And there you have it, Neko Box’s September forest bathing box! The colors are really nice and calming, and if you missed the subscription they usually have more for purchase in their shop within a few weeks. If you’re interested in subscribing, you totally should for their next box is the mythical creatures box; but due so quickly as the cut off date for that box is September 21st. 

[manekiniki]

Otsukimi Box

Kizuna Boxes September 2017 Edition is the Otsukimi Box, Harvest Moon Festival. If you’re not sure what that means, or entails, Allow a small tid bit from their pamphlet. “Otsukimi or Harvest Moon Festival, is a major festival Celebrated across Japan on September 15 every year. Otsukimi, Literally meaning ‘moon viewing’, is an occasion when people gather together to appreciate the moon which is believed to be the brightest and the most beautiful this time of year.”

For those of us that cannot be in Japan to take part in this festival, This box brings us just a bit closer to it. Inside we find adorable moon and rabbit inspired items to help us celebrate. Why Rabbits? Due to the Japanese Belief of a Rabbit living on the moon, the moon and by extension, Otsukimi, are often associated with Rabbits. Interested in seeing more? Click below!

Now, before I get to the unboxing I’d like to first tell you about a couple of new things going on with Kizuna box. First, if you aren’t aware they have a news letter on their site you can sign up with to keep up to date on any information. In the most recent Newsletter it was announced that their boxes now have tracking! I’m not sure how this impacts anyone else, but personally it’s fantastic. I work a third shift job, and having a tracker lets me know when it is I need to be awake to get the post. This Also comes with a slight increased in their base shipping by $3. Cool thing is, if you are already subscribed, or subscribe before September 25th, the $3 increase gets waived! 

Kizuna box never ceases to amazement with their appreciation and consideration of their customers. They listen to their reviews and run with them. They also seem grateful, something that is shown with the first item in the unboxing.  

If you were someone that gave Kizuna box a review on their facebook page, or their cratejoy page, you Will have received this item as a thank you. They are pretty little envelopes with clovers in the corners. Taped the package is a hand written note care from the Kizuna box team saying thank you.

The next item we have are 2 Teika no Tsuki (Teika’s Moon) Rice Crackers. according to the pamphlet the product line is insipred by Fujiwara no Teika (1162-1241) A Japanese poet of the late Heian and early Kamakura periods who deeply admired the moon. I haven’t tried them yet, but I’m excited to. For now I can say that I really love the texture of the wrapping on them.

Next we have a small Rabbit and Sakura drawstring bag. They come in either Black, red, or blue. I received the blue on. The bag seems sturdy and well made and its so pretty! I have a weakness for Sakura though, so who can blame me? It is small enough to carry around in your pocket, or purse; and can be used for your coins, small belongings and any other small accessories. I plan to use it for my lipgloss so that i will stop losing it in my purse. 

Next we have two items that I couldn’t help but picture together since I got lucky enough to have them match. The first is a Mino-yaki chopstick rest with a rabbit and moon pattern. It originated from Gifu Prefecture, Mino Yaki is Japans most popular pottery. It’s history dates back 1300 years ago. For this box they come in either Red (pictured) or blue. The other Item is a pair of Rabbit chopsticks. They are produced by the fukui prefecture based ISHIDA Co., Ltd, a chopsticks manufacturing company with more than 80 years history. Based on the picture it looks like there were a wide array of colors you could have ended up with , I’m pleased with the red. After you pair it with the next item, you will have completed your rabbit themed tableware!

The Mino-yaki Rabbit and The moon Ceramic plate. The plate shows a rabbit jumping over pampas grass with a large moon in the background. according to their pamphlet, it indicated Otsukimi tradition as pampas gras is an iconic decoration item for the festival as well as prosperity due to the rabbit leaping forward. I love this plate, its adorable, yet practical. 

Next we have the Rabbit and Sakura furoshiki cloth! This thing is so gorgeous. The texture and design are beautiful and I think this may win for my favorite item for the box, and yes it was hard to choose. This cloth is from the Osaka apparel cooperative, and come in either red or blue. Furoshiki cloths are a traditional japanese wrapping cloths and can be used to wrap, bento, gifts, clothes and anything capable of being wrapped.

I was also excited, on a childlike level, when I unwrapped this adorable Roly-poly Rabbit toy doll or Okiagari Koboshi. These are toys that right themselves when pushed over. They are said to represent the japanese proverb of resilience, “nana korobi ya oki” or seven times down, eight times up. This encourages people to get up and keep going no matter how many times they get knocked down; and this little reminder is adorable!

This might take a tie for first place in the box as well. Its a Rabbit Makie Bookmark. According to the pamphlet Makie is a thousand year old technique for lacquerware decoration in which designs are made by layering metal powders including gold and silver on the lacquerware using a special brush. Being that I love to read, I really love this book mark. I go through a lot of book marks as the paper ones tend to get worn out over time. i have a feeling this book mark is going to last for quite some time. 

[manekiniki]

Kizuna Summer Box

Hi again! Today I’m going to go over and review my Kizuna Summer Box. You should know that this was the first Kizuna box that was a complete mystery to me. The previous box I ordered from them was a box a few months old, and I’d seen pictures of things included. This time everything inside the box was a complete mystery! All I knew was the theme, which was summer! My excitement went unmatched, and I couldn’t wait to get home from work to delicately open it and see everything inside!

The pamphlet in this months box talks about how the summers in Japan are hot and humid, but its still a time you should visit the country as there are many festivals to enjoy. After a few minutes of advise on what to do in Japan during the summer: mountain hiking, watermelon splitting, and visiting the breathtaking sunflower seeds; the pamphlet entices you to read on to see the items you’ve received while unraveling them.

The first item I fished (no pun intended) from my Kizuna box was the Goldfish Scooping Game Display set. Goldfish Scooping is a game that is popular at Japanese summer festivals. It involves players scooping goldfish with a paper scooper. The pamphlet also states that this was an original origami project from their team for the subscribers. I find the display set adorable and I’m amazed to find out that they took the time to create the goldfish for who knows how many boxes?!

The next thing I pulled from the box were the snack items! There was 1 Bourbon Petit rice cracker pack, and 2 eel pies. Both are things i have never tried before. The bourbon Petit rice crackers came in 1 of 2 flavors: Yakisoba (stir fried noodles) or Karaage (fried chicken) I received the Karaage flavor and I can’t wait to give it and the eel pies a try! They even add that both snacks are delicate and apologize if they don’t make it in one piece. Mine arrived in really good shape. Only one of the eel pies were broken, and only in one spot; hardly noticeable. 

The next item I pulled out was this beautiful Goldfish ceramic plate. It’s a Mino-yaki piece from the Gifu Prefecture; and it’s gorgeous! I love the colors and how it just brightens the area that it’s near. That and the goldfish are just adorable. Speaking, of adorable goldfish; that brings us to the next item I got from the box.

A Goldfish washi note pad and Goldfish washi tape. I’d like to first point out that both of these are going to come in handy for a person like me. I’m constantly jotting down little notes of things I need to remember, and the washi tape will play a nice part in the scrap book. The note pad is made of Echizen Washi and produced in Kyoto. Also, a fun fact I learned from the pamphlet and wasn’t aware of: Washi is commonly made from bark fibers of the gampi tree, the mitsumata shrub, or the paper mulberry. It’s appreciated for it’s unique texture and durability. 

A Hamamonyo Tenuhui handkerchief. Though I personally tend to use these to line the shelves that hold my collections, you can also use this as a handkerchief or a lunch mat. The pattern you see on it is inspired by water yoyo or mizu yoyo, which is a popular Japanese festival game. 

The second to last item in the box was a sunflowers and lady postcard. According to the pamphlet the postcard embraces the vintage romance lifestyle and fashion developing in the Taisho era (1912-1926), intended to evoke a sense of nostalgia. I find it to be super pretty, and have already added it to my scrap book. If you came here from my instagram, you may have noticed it in the video telling you this post was up!

Last, but Certainly not least is this Seto-yaki wind chime, or Furin. This isn’t the first furin I own, and it probably wont be the last. The reason being is the sound they produce is beautiful, soothing, and soft. Wind chimes I’ve heard my whole life have always bothered or annoyed me, but Japanese Furin simply bring me peace. This is, hands down, my favorite item in the box. I even might have danced a little when I realized what it was. Now, the pamphlet informs you that along with the goldfish, wind chimes are an icon of Japan’s summer. It’s also stated that Seto-yaki (seto ware) refers to a type of japanese pottery produced in and around the village of seto in Aichi Prefecture. Seto was the location of one of the six ancient kilns of japan. The Japanese term for ceramics from Seto (setomono) is used as a generic term for all pottery.

And there you have it, the Kizuna summer box! Once more Kizuna box brought Japan to my door, and I wasn’t disappointed in the least bit. I wasn’t sure if I could be more pleased that I was with their last box, but they have indeed proved me wrong. Both boxes, and all items included made me feel like I was part of the Japanese community; if only for the moment. If you’re interested in having your own experience with Kizuna box I’d entirely recommend it! If wares aren’t your forte, but snacks are; they have a snack box as well! Just take a look. You can find them on instagram and facebook, just search Kizuna box.

[manekiniki]

Neko Box

Hey all, Today I plan to introduce you to Neko box! This is actually the first box I’ve ever subscribed to. The excitement I felt when I discovered it is pretty hard to describe. Japan, on my doorstep, every month? Who was I to deny myself that?! This month is the Matcha Box. It’s the 4th box that I’ve received, and the second since they altered what was in it. Originally the box included Ceramic pieces, a long with textiles and stationary. The summer nights box started their new versions of the box that would exclude the textiles and stationary, and include more ceramics and cultural Items for an extra $5. Click below to see all that is included!

Allow me to start by saying, I miss the textiles and stationary. I loved the Furoshiki cloths, and the drawstring bags like the vintage box contained. I even miss the stickers. Plus, personally it felt like we got more in the other boxes when they included these. Based on reviews I’ve seen though, I think I’m in the minority for this and perhaps thats why they changed how they did things. Even still, it’s a nice box to subscribe to, Sometimes though I don’t feel as if I get much for what was paid. Again, that could certainly just be me. For now, lets see what came in the Matcha Tea Box.

The first things you’ll come across when you open your Neko box is the card explaining first, what the theme for the box is. This one was the Matcha Tea Box. On the back of this card is a break down of everything you’ll have in the box. Next is a yellow colored envelope that holds the Neko Box exclusive Kawa Magazine, and a Print created by one of the Neko box founders. This months Kawa magazine gives you all the deets on the traditional tea ceremony, a list of tools needed to create your matcha, and a basic ‘how to’ guide to making matcha. They let you know about a few tea houses in Japan.

The first two items I pulled from my box were the Bamboo Matcha spoon, and the Bamboo Matcha Whisk. Both items are essential to creating the perfect Matcha. The spoon is what you need to scoop the Matcha powder into your bowl, and the whisk is used to combine it with the water to have the perfect frothy goodness. 

The next item I pulled from my Neko box was this beautiful light green sakura matcha bowl. I think hands down, this was my favorite item from the box. I loved the color, texture, and lets face it; sakura! I’m a pretty huge sakura fan, the items in my house give way to this, so i loved adding this to my collection. This particular bowl is Hasamiyaki porcelain and was made in the Nagasaki Prefecture. It’s so pretty I wish I had a few. 

The final Item in this months Neko box is an Ume Matcha Container. The container is used to store your matcha just before use, but according to the card it can be used to store snacks and sugar as well. This particular item is a Minoyaki Porcelain piece made in the Gifu Prefecture. 

And there you have it! I do like the box, despite the fact that I’ve never tried matcha. I have a very bad memory of green tea that stems from my 9 year old self, and it keeps me from trying anything even relating to green tea. Maybe one day I will take the plunge and give it a go, and when that time comes, I’ll have everything I need! Thanks, Neko box! If you like what you see, or merely just want to sign up for next months box (Forest bathing Box) Subscriptions are limited at 300, and close the 21st of the month! So sign up now, for $39.99+ shipping at their website!

[manekiniki]

My Kizuna box has arrived! This is the first Kixzuna box that I ordered, and it’s actually a miracle I got it to begin with. By that I mean, I discovered kizuna box late, like a box or so behind this one. I wasn’t even sure that I was able to order it, I simply commented on their instagram post of the items inside and said that I was sorry to have missed out, but I was going to try for their next one. Their response shocked me. “Thank you for your interest in our products! We’re so glad you like it, we had so much fun curating the products for this box because everything with hydrangeas on it is just so beautiful! Fortunately we still have 1 left is stock, should you consider purchasing it.” From there, they gave me a link to where I could buy it without having to do an entire subscription (great for people like me who live paycheck to paycheck, and need to sort their money and budget a certain amount toward treating ourselves) and that I only needed to inbox them my order number and they’d make sure I got this box specifically rather than the one currently going out. To read more about this box, see images of what was inside it. Click below!

Kizuna box is a fairly new subscription box from re-discovery japan. They have 2 different boxes, the Lifestyle box (reviewed here) and their snack box. The lifestyle box contains 5-7 high-quality Japanese items that include ceramics, Cloths, stationary and snacks. The Snack box contains 13-16 artisanal traditional and limited edition Japanese snacks and Beverages, along with 1-2 cultural and lifestyle items. This is their Rainy season box, and to my understanding their first box. Since my order they have sent out their “Tanabata” Box and their “Japan’s summer” box (on the way for me!). 

Before I get to the pictures (I know, i know, I’ll be quick, promise.) I want to Commend Kizuna box employees for their amazing customer service. It’s honestly some of the best I’ve come across since I started ordering things online. I had some issues with my Address. The dropdown menu would only allow me to pick places in Japan, rather than states in the USA. I sent them a small message on Instagram, seeing if perhaps I was doing something wrong. They wrong back, in no exaggerating, five minutes later. They walked me through how to get my address correct (Heads up, check out with pay-pal, so much easier just an FYI) and even noted that they were apologetic to the point that they’d add a free item in my box for the trouble. WHAT?! Yeah. I’ve since contacted them on multiple occasions and its always a pleasant experience. Anxiety sufferers, rejoice. This is one experience that wont send you into heart palpitations. NOW! without further ado, Welcome to Kizuna box.

First thing you’ll see is a pamphlet that tells you all about the theme of this box, Which is nice especially if you aren’t from that area. Personally I didn’t know Japan had a rainy season, especially not one that Causes the hydrangeas to bloom like crazy, so I appreciated the history. Everything else n the pamphlet tells you about the items in your box, and where they came from.

Everything is carefully wrapped and secured in hopes that nothing arrives to you broken, and you can tell that its placed with care inside the box. Now for what’s inside!

Despite being a lifestyle box, Kizuna includes snack items in theirs, so show what Japanese people would be eating, or drinking at this specific time of the year. The rainy season box came with 2 Kamakura Ajisai Sandwich cookies, 2 Ito En instant green tea packets, and 1 Premium Mint, summer edition kit kat!

Other lifestyle boxes that I’ve had do not include this. When asked, they state that they aren’t a food box. I personally saw this as a nice touch since, there is more to a lifestyle than ceramic pieces. Yes I love the ceramic pieces but I know my life includes more than just places and bowls. So the Candy, cookies, and tea seemed fitting to me. I also liked that they listed any allergens the items given might include, and the expiration date. 

The next item in the box was an Ajisai Document Folder from Unsodo. Its a simple folder, slightly smaller than the pamphlet inside. I use mine for the invoices of my online purchases. In works well for that!

There was also an Ajisai furoshiki cloth from Yonagado. I don’t think my pictures do the colors justice. its a white/greyish cloth with dark blue images on it and a navy blue boarder. This is the 4th furoshiki cloth that I own, and I use them (this one included) to line the shelf that holds my Japanese ceramics. However, furoshiki cloths are traditionally used to wrap bento, gifts, and other items.

I found this post card to be an adorable addition to the box. I’ll be using it in my scrapbook, but you can hang it on your wall, or even send it in the mail to someone. It is “The cat Series” by Tsuyu Ukiyo-e.

I’m not going to lie that Mino yaki Ajisail Ceramic bowl is the thing that stole my attention when I first saw the kizuna box, and with this one I received two! One is the green that went with the plate (pictured below) and the other is pink, slightly smaller and is what I believe my free gift was for my difficulties with my address. You can feel the bumps in the ceramic of the Hydrangeas. The inside of the bowl is even beautiful with an outline of the flowers as well. 

The final Item of this box is the Mino-yaki Ajisai Ceramic plate. Can I just say that I love this plate! its different then the plates i received from my other Japanese lifestyle box, It isn’t just a plate with an image painted on it, it is the image in itself. It’s unique and beautiful and entirely its own.

I think all in all I’m very pleased with everything that I received in the kizuna box, and with Kizuna itself. You can tell by the items chosen that they care about the culture, about the items they’re curating and the theme that they’ve chosen for the box that month. They seem to put care into their work, and care into their customers. If you’re looking for a lifestyle box that teaches you, provides you with items that you’re sure to love, and people that won’t blow off your concerns; then Kizuna box is for you.

[manekiniki]

UPDATE!

Hey all, so I just wanted to quickly, quietly, and hopefully painlessly update you on a few things, as well as let you know about some stuff coming soon. 

I have a couple of things coming in the mail (yay!) They’re two different subscription boxes from two different companies; both based out of Japan. One I have been subscribed to for a few months now. I’ve already received 4 boxes from them in the past, and my fifth one is on the way. The second is a new Japanese lifestyle box that I’ve stumbled upon about a month ago. This one will be my first box from them, and I’m super excited to receive it. 

I thought it would be a nice opportunity to both review them in their own right, and compare them. Not because I want to pit them against each other, and not because I’ll be dropping one. Lets face it I’m too obsessed with the items i’ve seen to just let them go. Mostly I want to compare them because sometimes one would be a good fit for some people, while other times it’s the opposite. I’m hoping that if Japan, locally curated Japanese items are your thing, and you’ve been on a search for a subscription box that does just that; that I can help you by giving you some options!

Let me know if there is anything else you want me to write about, review, talk about; or well anything!

Thanks for reading! -Nico

[manekiniki]

The Girl With All the Gifts

When I’d asked some people what it was I should write about I was suggested a book review. Thanks, Megan! So here we have it, I’ve finally settled on reviewing ‘The Girl With All the Gifts by M.R. Carey’ Read more below to see what I think, and if its the book for you!

First of all, my older sister suggested that I read this book, and for a while I put it off. As a rule, I don’t generally listen to book suggestions. i know, Its horrible of me, but lets face it; they aren’t always right. Chances are they’re suggesting it to me and I build it up in my head as the best book in the world, I read it and am disappointed. Now is this their fault? No. Is it mine? Possibly. I have a thing about disappointing myself, but thats not the point. The point is, I finally caved when I was looking for something new to read. You know those moments when you really want to read something, but nothing you have in that giant to-read pile looks interesting? That was me, that was the moment I caved. I bit down my pride, threw caution to the wind, and hoped to any higher power listening that they please, please, not let this be a waste of my time. 

I threw an order to amazon and 2 days later (thank you amazon prime!) I had the lovely yellow book in my grasp. Now the cover, unlike other books, doesn’t really give very much away about the book. The shadow of a young girl backed by yellow, not much, right? A few small clinch words from the San Francisco Chronicle and Joss Whedon and a line at the top that reads, “The most original Thriller you will read his year?” 

Is it? Is it really? Well, thats what I questioned, then I read the small blurb on the back and I became lost. Is this a thriller? or dystopian? What the heck was this book actually about? The back cave me very little to go on.

“Every morning, Melanie waits in her cell to be collected for class. When they come for her, Sergeant Parks keeps his gun pointing at her while two of his people strap her into the wheelchair. She thinks they don’t like her. She jokes that she wont bite. But they don’t laugh.”

Thats it!, that is all I had to go on. Which for me, was very little, but also just enough to catch my curiosity. Still doubtful, but curious I took a deep breath and drove in.

We meet Melanie much like the back cover explained, in a cell. It’s not long before you learn there isn’t much more to the young girls life, The cell, A classroom the showers and a hallway. Its downright depressing. Then the guards come, they hold their guns, they strap her in and off she goes. It starts you on a path of wondering why she’s here, is she a super tiny assassin? Why are these men with guns scared of her? I mean they have to be scared of her, otherwise...why the gun? Well, only new questions pop up as you learn that her shower isn’t what we know it to be, its chemicals! CHEMICALS! 

What the hell was I even reading? Where was this book going? Well, Let me try and speed this along for you. Melanie, and every other child in the book is a zombie. Right? you’re shocked too. Except these are not the zombie we are used to, and this isn’t your average zombie tale. These children are intelligent and able to communicate and learn. Melanie is said to be one of the smartest. Now, it isn’t only the Children, Adult zombies, for whatever reason are more similar to the kind we’re used to. They want human flesh, they want to feast on you and your brains, and they have no intelligence beyond smelling human flesh and fighting for it. Sounds attract them, the smell attracts them, and the kids? They’re no different in some ways.

Melanie and her clan of other strapped in children react feral when presented with the scent of human skin. The sweat and pheromones would cause them all of, in a sense, freak out. So why don’t they? Remember that chemical shower? even the humans in the army base where they live take the same shower. They even have a topical cream they apply to themselves when they’re around the tiny tots. 

Moving past that knowledge that totally and completely threw me off, we learn there is a far greater tale to the story. There is a touching one between Melanie and one of her Teachers Miss Justineau. Melanie loves her like a child would their mother. She wants nothing more than to learn from her and be around her. Its because of this love that when the Army base is attacked and they all run to safety, Melanie goes with them. Its where she learns, truly, what she is. In her desire to keep her teacher safe, she jumps at a man about to shoot the woman, and bites him. This kickstarts something in the young girl. It makes her realize she likes this, and you think that’s it. One bite and its over, poor Melanie never had a chance.

Except that she did. After the bite, after killing her teachers attack she essentially turns around and is all, “Lets go, we have to run.” Melanie becomes A hero in the story, leading everyone to safety. When they come to Zombie crowded areas, she scouts ahead as they have no desire for her similar zombie flesh. She finds new ways for them to go, and occasionally leads them away giving the humans a chance to escape and move on to safety. 

This book somehow ends up being a thriller zombie book, a feel good book, and a heart-wrenching book all rolled into one. Its exhilarating, exhausting, and at times had me wanting to pull my hair out. As a whole though, it was very enjoyable. One of the better books I’ve come to read, and nothing at all what I expected. Overall I’d say it was a nice change for me as far as a book goes. I can almost guarantee that if you pick this book up, and give it a chance, then you would not be disappointed. Even if this might not be the sort of book that you pick up to read over and over again, it is certainly worth reading at least once. 

I love that it gave a new spin on the zombie world, especially during a time when zombie movies, books, and comics are making a huge wave today. This book half the time doesn’t even feel like a zombie novel, so even if Zombies aren’t you’re thing; I still suggest you take the chance on it. Did I also mention that a movie just recently came out based on the book? No? Well there is, so You can watch that too. Though, lets face it, the book is probably better. =D 

[manekiniki]

HI!

I’m perhaps a little too excited and you’re probably sitting there staring at me (the screen) as if perhaps I’m insane, and maybe you should move along. Please don’t!! I’m made this blog, essentially for you. Well, maybe not you, but you know; people. People other than myself. Right, great start. Let me do this over. 

HI! I’m Nico. I know, I know. I named the blog manekinki, I’m also Niki. Not as in, I have multiple personalities, but in that I go by either name. Yes, you’re correct, ‘Manekinico’ would have sounded far better. Sadly, it was taken. -sad face- womp womp. I went with the alternative. Now, I’m a 28 year old who has a LOT of interests. Like, probably too many. Thats where this blog comes in. I want to talk about it, write about it. Heck share my experiences and maybe even a review or 2. 

This isn’t a personal blog, I (probably) won’t be following many, if any other blogs. Why? I have a personal blog for that. I want this one to be specifically for words. Don’t get me wrong, there will be pictures, but Chances are they’re of whatever it is I happen to be talking about that day. Does that mean I won’t reblog things? No necessarily but only time can tell. 

So I hope you follow! and I hope you enjoy it. Maybe even tell your friends about it and make it a thing?