Five faithful yet child-friendly retellings of classic Japanese folk tales, introducing young readers to the origins of some of Japan's most enduring myths and legends. Discover the story of a mysterious moon princess whose brief life on Earth leaves a lasting legacy, a kind fisherman who visits a dazzling palace beneath the sea and the divine origins of Japan through the trials of its creator gods. Readers will also meet the tiny boy with a giant dream of becoming a samurai and a cast of unforgettable characters - including clever animals, humble villagers and magical beings - who each reveal important lessons about courage, kindness and compassion.
Titles in this set:
1. The Bamboo Cutter and the Moon Child
2. Urashima Taro and the Underwater Palace
3. Izanagi and Izanami, the Creators of Japan
4. Issun Bōshi the One-Inch Boy
5. The White Rabbit of Inaba and Other Stories
Description:
The Bamboo Cutter and the Moon Child
Every day, the old Bamboo Cutter goes to work and every evening he goes home to his wife. But when he finds a glowing baby girl inside a bamboo stalk, his life is changed forever. As the child quickly grows into a woman, stories of her beauty enchant the people of Japan - including the Emperor. But Princess Moonlight's future has already been decided, and nothing on Earth can change it.
Urashima Taro and the Underwater Palace
Urashima Taro is a selfless fisherman who cares deeply for the sea. After rescuing a helpless turtle one day, he wins the attention of a lovely princess called Otohime. As a reward for his kindness, Taro is invited to Otohime's underwater palace, where many magical and wonderful things await him. But how long can he stay before his home on the surface calls him back?
Izanagi and Izanami, the Creators of Japan
In the heavenly realm of Takamagahara, Izanagi and Izanami are given a very important task: create the islands of Japan. Using the Heavenly Jewelled Spear, Izanagi forms the many islands of Japan while Izanami gives birth to a new generation of gods. But when Izanami dies giving birth to the fire god Kagutsuchi, Izanagi is overcome with grief and decides he'll do anything to see his wife again. Even if it means travelling to the land of the dead…
Issun Bōshi the One-Inch Boy
After years of praying, an aging couple are blessed with the one thing they've always wanted: a child. The boy is everything they asked for - but he is only one-inch tall. Despite teasing from the village children and his mother's protective nature, Issun Bōshi dreams of becoming a mighty samurai. Then, one day, Issun Bōshi sets sail for Kyoto with nothing but a sewing needle for a sword.
The White Rabbit of Inaba and Other Stories
After years of praying, an aging couple are blessed with the one thing they've always wanted: a child. The boy is everything they asked for - but he is only one-inch tall. Despite teasing from the village children and his mother's protective nature, Issun Bōshi dreams of becoming a mighty samurai. Then, one day, Issun Bōshi sets sail for Kyoto with nothing but a sewing needle for a sword.