Description
The collection begins with the early myths of the gods, which are followed by legends celebrating early heroes and warriors, and includes the earliest example of Japanese romance, “The Bamboo-Cutter and the Moon-Maiden.” Many of the legends that follow reflect an exquisite, poetic beauty, though there are some which also exhibit a rather crude realism — you’ll want to pick and choose where children are to be listening.
The author has included a terrific set of appendices, for those of use not very familiar with Japanese culture: there are notes on Japanese poetry, a listing of gods and goddesses, a geneology of The Age of the Gods and an index of poetical quotations. This is another book that has been brought back from the past – originally published in 1913, it is just as alive and amazing today.
