The inspiration for this marvelous book were the traditional stories that Eric Quayle's Japanese wife used to tell to their children. Quayle, with his affinity for Japanese culture, decided to write the stories down, giving rise to a collection of folktales brimming with magic and adventure. Michael Foreman's love of the country is evident in his shimmering watercolor illustrations, which perfectly capture the spirit and atmosphere of the tales. From "The Shining Princess", through the adventures of "Momotaro -- The Peach Warrior", to "The Ogre of Rashomon", readers of all ages will be enchanted. Eric Quayle and Michael Foreman's previous book was The Magic Ointment and Other Cornish Legends.