Furoshiki
(Japanese Wrapping Cloth)
($8 to $18)
Sure, it’s a centuries-old tradition that was once used as a means to carry necessities, but the lucky recipient of these furoshiki are sure to be stylin’! These furoshiki represent a modern take on the art, and are premade with ribbon ties, perfect for a quick wrap job.

‘Open Passage’ ($12)
Poet Ann Muto gives voice to her grandparents and parents, and the tens of thousands of Nikkei who were incarcerated in American concentration camps during World War II. Though some of the earlier poems touch on themes of shame and sorrow, Muto’s works also reveal her love for nature, and the serenity she finds in the wilderness. Not to be missed are “Search” and “Questions,” poems that Muto has dedicated to the Japanese American Museum of San Jose’s own Jimi Yamaichi and Eva Yamamoto. At just 56 pages long, the reader will want to savor each poem, in this gem of a book.

The Japanese American Museum of San Jose (JAMsj) is located at 535 N. Fifth St. in San Jose’s Japantown. It is open noon to 4 p.m. from Thursday through Sunday. Admission is $5 for the general public and $3 for students and seniors. Children under 12 are free. Call (408) 294-3138 or visit www.jamsj.org.