Makoto is the main character in my children’s picture book, “The Can-Do Karate Kid” (here’s an overview). The book will be available soon. In the story, he’s nine years old. He’s a normal boy but has some problems like being tardy to school and late to karate. Makoto could do a lot better with his grades in school. He just has no pride in his work. This might have something to do with Laziness and Procrastination who are his constant companions. They have all known each other since they were babies. Here’s Makoto’s picture from back when he was a baby.

Fortunately Makoto and his family have some helpful tools like karate and the Dojo Kun. Their influence is seen even in his name, which is a Japanese word for truth and sincerity. You can learn more about the name Makoto on the website Behind the Name. It has a lot of interesting information and opinions about different names.

-Jenifer Tull-Gauger