This collection of medieval Japanese stories was a very entertaining read. It begins with an introduction that provides context for the tales to come. I really appreciated this since I have very minimal knowledge of this period of Japanese history. The tales themselves were organized in groups of similar themes, but the stories were all unique and diverse. I really enjoyed reading this selection! ( )

This collection of folk tales from medieval Japan is just a total delight. Aimed halfway between Japanese literature specialists and total newbies (of which I am one), it’s beautifully packaged, well-translated and includes a great introduction by Japanophile Royall Tyler

The tales themselves are often totally madcap, full of shapeshifting gods and severely unfair turns of fate. They’re full of… not exactly wisdom… but something approaching wisdom, packaged in such a way as to make you think they could just be totally random. Frequently I’d settle into a tale thinking “I see where this is going, that evil emperor is going to get his comeuppance”, and then he wouldn’t, and the innocent pauper would get cursed by a river demon for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

I am reminded never to turn ugly old women away from the door of my castle. Or do. It’s unclear.