Kobi Yamada

(1960s – )

Illustrated children’s book author, inspiring storyteller, and publisher

Life and Writing Journey

Kobi Yamada is an author living in the United States. Still alive and actively continuing her writing career, Yamada is married and a mother of two children. She lives with her family in a small town in the western United States, in the state of Washington.

Her interest in writing began with her admiration for illustrated books. Her first book, What Do You Do With an Idea? (Turkish title: Bir Fikrin mi Var?), was published in 2014. This book has gained an important place in children’s literature and has been translated into many languages.

She is also the founder of a publishing house named Compendium, which designs inspiring books, notebooks, planners, and gift items. Yamada serves as both author and manager of this publishing house.

Literary Philosophy and View on Children’s Literature

Kobi Yamada’s books do not merely tell stories to children; they encourage them to think, feel, and find courage. Each of her books begins with an idea, a question, or an emotion. According to Yamada, illustrated books are a powerful way to convey important life concepts to children.

Her stories typically unfold through situations a child might encounter, such as imagination, opportunity, challenge, or uncertainty. Through these themes, she prompts children to ask themselves:

• What should I do when I have an idea?
• How can I deal with a problem I face?
• Can I seize an opportunity in my life?

Yamada believes that children’s books are not only for children but can also serve as sources of inspiration for teenagers and adults. For this reason, her books are warmly received by readers of all ages.

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Major Works

Kobi Yamada’s most well-known books generally revolve around the same themes. Each begins with a different question and continues with heartfelt, simple, yet powerful answers that touch children’s inner worlds.

• What Do You Do With an Idea? (Bir Fikrin mi Var?)
• What Do You Do With a Problem? (Bir Sorunun mu Var?)
• What Do You Do With a Chance? (Bir Şansın mı Var?)
• Maybe (Belki)
• Trying (Denemek)
• Noticing (Fark Etmek)
• Because I Had a Teacher (Çünkü Bir Öğretmenim Vardı)

All of these books are illustrated, and each aims to deliver a sincere, simple, yet impactful message to children. The illustrations in her books harmonize with the narrative to support the emotional tone.

Some of her works have been adapted for theater and animation and have also served as inspiration in other artistic fields.

The Time Travel Box

Illustrated Children’s Books are a unique narrative form in which drawing and text progress together. These books unite visual and verbal worlds. Kobi Yamada is one of the masters of this field.

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Publishing and Place in Children’s Literature

Kobi Yamada is not only an author but also a successful publishing entrepreneur. Through her publishing house Compendium, she creates content that inspires both children and adults. In this regard, she holds a distinctive position in children’s literature publishing.

Yamada’s books differ from traditional tales. Rather than focusing on adventure or entertainment, they center on thinking, feeling, and discovering values. Her aim is to instill imagination, self-confidence, love, and courage in children.

Today, her books are read in many countries around the world, translated into numerous languages, and have won countless awards.