Momotaro the Peach Boy: A Traditional Japanese Tale - Hardcover

Shute, Linda

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0688058639 ISBN 13: 9780688058630

Publisher: William Morrow & Co, 1986

Synopsis

Found floating on the river inside a peach by an old couple, Momotaro grows up and fights the terrible demons who have terrorized the village for years

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Grade 1-3 The difference between Momotaro and other Asian folktales of the childless couple blessed with a tiny son who defeats the demons is that in this version the peach boy grows to full size before he sets off to fight the cruel oni. When he shares his dumplings with a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant, they in turn join him on his journey to the demons' island to punish them for attacking and robbing the people. The four, strengthened by the best of dumplings, overcome the oni and carry their treasure back to the poor people. Source notes provide background on the tale, setting, and illustrations plus pronunciation for the nine Japanese words used. Colorful full-page drawings depict Momotaro and company in traditional styles and the oni as red or blue demon-like creatures. Shute's explanation of details in the illustrations does not account for the sudden costuming of two animals in human attire once they join the peach boy's mission. Haviland's Favorite Fairy Tales Told in Japan (Little, 1967; o.p.) includes the story, but this is a readable retelling in picture book format. Julie Cummins, Monroe County Library System, Rochester, N.Y.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: William Morrow & Co
• Publication date: 1986
• ISBN 10: 0688058639
• ISBN 13: 9780688058630
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 34