Old-World Japan: Legends of the Land of the Gods

A series of retellings of traditional Japanese myths and folktales presents creation legends, the emergence of major deities, a radiant sun goddess and the pair who shape the land, an underworld descent and struggles with demons, and a range of shorter tales — from enchanted palaces beneath the sea and lovers separated by celestial rivers to an island of eternal youth, forest-born heroes, animal brides, and household fables. The selections emphasize vivid imagery, seasonal and natural themes, and supernatural causality, arranged as concise, picturesque narratives chosen for charm and color and accompanied by illustrative plates.