Myths of Japan - Meet the Gods, Creatures, and Heroes of Ancient Japan

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.

About the 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.

Product details

• Authors: Masako Carey
• Assisted by: Katie Ponder (Illustration)
• Publisher: Dorling Kindersley
• Languages: English
• Age Recommendation: ages 7 to 9
• Product format: Hardback
• Release: 06.08.2026
• EAN: 9780241740262
• ISBN: 978-0-241-74026-2
• No. of pages: 144
• Series: Ancient Myths
• Subjects: Children's and young people's books > Non-fiction books / Non-fiction picture books > History, politics; Education and learning > Schoolbooks, general education schools; History & the past: general interest (Children's / Teenage), JUVENILE FICTION / Historical / Asia, JUVENILE FICTION / Legends, Myths, Fables / Asian, Children’s / Teenage general interest: History and the past, Educational: History, JUVENILE FICTION / Places / Asia