Yuji Ando, a Japanese award-winning artist and cartoonist, provides soft toned, full page illustrations to support the telling of Aiko's story. The characters are drawn in an almost cartoon-like style, at times seemingly out of proportion. Especially in the case of the portrayal of the old woman, this technique might distract attention from the story. However, because interpretation of illustrative style varies with individuals, this becomes a personal preference.

Japanese-Canadian author Rui Umezawa creates a story, set in Japan, that has a universal theme for all readers - tradition. In an era of constant change, understanding of the value of tradition and sharing it from one generation to another can be difficult. Aiko's Flowers illustrates the realization of the gift of tradition by a child. The book also exposes young readers to the purpose of ancient art form of ikebana. The book's afterword provides further information on the origins of ikebana and its current popularity. Literature, such as Aiko's Flowers, provides young readers with an opportunity to examine and study different cultures while enjoying a good story.

Recommended.