Myths of Japan

Meet the Gods, Creatures, and Heroes of Ancient Japan

Illustrated by Katie Ponder
Hardcover
$24.99 US
| $33.99 CAN
On sale Aug 04, 2026 | 144 Pages | 9798217138623
Age 7-9 years | Grades 2-4

Enter a world of powerful gods, extraordinary creatures, and brave warriors in this thrilling compendium of Japanese myths. With more than 20 exciting tales backed up by fascinating historical information, this is a must-have introduction for young readers intrigued by the world of ancient Japanese culture and mythology.

From the creation of the world to the first emperors, this book charts the full sweep of Japanese myth, revealing fascinating aspects of ancient Japanese ritual and customs along the way. Meet a whole host of mischievous creatures, such as the shapeshifting fox-spirit kitsune and the turtle-like kappa who loves cucumbers and sumo wrestling! Say hello to the mighty gods and emperors, including the legendary first emperor of Japan – Jimmu – and the powerful sun goddess Amaterasu, the chief deity in Shintoism.

With delightful retellings by Japanese-born storyteller Masako Carey and featuring beautiful illustrations by award-winning illustrator Katie Ponder throughout, Myths of Japan is the perfect gift for children who love myths and legends.
Masako Carey is a Japanese-born storyteller who has lived in Northern Ireland since 2021. Masako tells traditional Japanese tales in schools, libraries, and community venues to people of all ages and abilities. As a child, Masako loved reading and watching animated Japanese folktale stories on TV. The influence of the world of animation, combined with her experience as a kindergarten teacher at an international school, gives Masako a unique storytelling style.
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About

Enter a world of powerful gods, extraordinary creatures, and brave warriors in this thrilling compendium of Japanese myths. With more than 20 exciting tales backed up by fascinating historical information, this is a must-have introduction for young readers intrigued by the world of ancient Japanese culture and mythology.

From the creation of the world to the first emperors, this book charts the full sweep of Japanese myth, revealing fascinating aspects of ancient Japanese ritual and customs along the way. Meet a whole host of mischievous creatures, such as the shapeshifting fox-spirit kitsune and the turtle-like kappa who loves cucumbers and sumo wrestling! Say hello to the mighty gods and emperors, including the legendary first emperor of Japan – Jimmu – and the powerful sun goddess Amaterasu, the chief deity in Shintoism.

With delightful retellings by Japanese-born storyteller Masako Carey and featuring beautiful illustrations by award-winning illustrator Katie Ponder throughout, Myths of Japan is the perfect gift for children who love myths and legends.

Author

Masako Carey is a Japanese-born storyteller who has lived in Northern Ireland since 2021. Masako tells traditional Japanese tales in schools, libraries, and community venues to people of all ages and abilities. As a child, Masako loved reading and watching animated Japanese folktale stories on TV. The influence of the world of animation, combined with her experience as a kindergarten teacher at an international school, gives Masako a unique storytelling style.

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