Chiaki Okada – författare

In recent years, sport has attracted considerable attention as an effective means of combating such local and global issues as war and conflict, poverty, ethnic reconciliation, and gender conflicts. Sport has been shown to be an effective tool or triggering device compared to the other development sectors, especially when donors can apply grassroots activities to the development contexts in thoughtful and continuing ways. This book fills the gap in this critical topic- that will only grow more important as governments, sport and national organizations direct more funds towards forms of play, PE and sport in the hope that these will represent one way of coalescing communities and assist development and peace. This volume is part of the early serious and systematic inquiry into this issue. In addition to showcasing some of the most recognized names in the research subfield of Sociology of Sport, the book draws upon an international roster of global contributors. The empirical focus of the chapters spans from Africa to Asia. Further, these chapters represent three groups - theory and philosophy, empirical research in actual 'on-the-ground' case studies, and those using circumspection and care to construct cases regarding measurement and evaluation.

“Mama, what comes after the snow?”“The spring!” says Mama, smiling. But Bramble doesn’t understand. She has never seen the spring. Bramble, the littlest rabbit, can't wait for the snow to melt. When spring comes, she'll be big enough to climb the tall tree with her brothers. But snow is all Bramble has ever known. Hopping from the rabbit family's cosy burrow into the wintry forest where branches dip with the weight of heavy snow, curious little Bramble encounters a very large new friend. Will she recognise the spring when it arrives?This beautiful picture book, with charming, soft illustrations, celebrates growing up, new experiences and the anticipation of a new season.