A-1 International English School Blog
New posts every Saturday and Wednesday
Real English. Real Conversation.
Every Saturday, I share practical English conversation tips, natural American expressions, and advice to help you speak confidently and fluently. Whether you’re a professional, a traveler, or simply looking to improve your everyday English, this blog is designed for you.
Every Wednesday, enjoy a light mid-week read with my bonus series, “English Through Antiques & Collectibles.” It teaches useful English words, phrases, or idioms inspired by them — a fun way to learn real English through culture, history, and conversation. Sometimes, I’ll feature an item from my online store, Tanuki Treasures.
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— John Haines
Let’s Talk About Vintage Japan: The Charm of Kokeshi Dolls.English Through Antiques series | A-1 International English School & Tanuki Treasures
Discover the charm and history of Japan’s beloved kokeshi dolls — simple yet expressive wooden figures that have delighted generations. In this week’s “English Through Antiques” post, we’ll explore their origins, regional styles, and the language of craftsmanship that brings these traditional dolls to life.