a. Summary: This is a collection of wonderful Japanese folk tales. Many of them include common social ideals that exist within the Japanese culture. The tales tell stories of modest characters experiencing adventures. The tales also include talking animals and that is consistent with folk tales from other countries.
b. Review: Reading folk tales has been an enjoyable thing for me to do from childhood. So reading these folk tales was a joy. Great stories filled with fun and moral lessons. The elements from the tales are similar to fold tales around the world, but with a Japanese essence that gives the reader a snapshot of the culture.
c. School Use: This book could be used in the classroom in a literature section. A tale could be read from this book, then a tales read from a Native American folk tales book, and comparisons could be made. I think that cultural comparisons can show similarities and differences in a positive light and promote tolerance.

This is a book of Japanese folktales. I read some of them a long time ago, but don't remember them too well. Looks like it better go in the queue to read again.

- Peter K.

Book Description: Berkeley, CA, U.S.A.: Creative Arts Book Company, 1987. Soft Cover. Very Good. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall. 146 pgs with glossary. A collection of Japanese folktales, translated and retold with charming illustrations