Ultimate Guide to Japanese Yokai
Ghosts, Demons, Monsters and other Creepy Creatures from Japan(with Over 250 Images)
By: Zack Davisson
"A modern day Lafcadio Hearn is picking up his ghostly torch. Zack Davisson is the author, translator, and folklorist following in Hearn's footsteps." —tofugu.com Mysterious demons, ghosts and monsters have haunted Japan for centuries! The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Yokai presents 100 of the strangest creatures you have ever seen—from evil demons and terrifying monsters to mythical ghosts and enchanted beasts. In this book, Yokai expert Zack Davisson explains how Yokai are highly elusive, and yet without understanding them you will never truly know Japan. The Yokai profiled in this book include: Amabie: A mysterious half fish, half bird creature said to heal any affliction merely by gazing upon its image Tofu Kozo: A harmless Yokai that appears like a young child dressed in a fancy kimono with a straw hat carrying a plate of wobbly tofu Kyokotsu: The pitiful spirit of a person who was thrown down a well and died—with pale skin and a shock of white hair growing from a bleached-white skull Akaname: A disgusting Yokai who skitters about licking the scum from filthy bathtubs Kanibozu: Massive crabs, who shapeshift into human form, disguising themselves as monks asking riddles, but killing anyone who fails to answer correctly! And many more! Packed with interesting facts and entertaining stories, this book is richly illustrated with over 250 color woodblock prints and paintings that reveal the fascinating world of the Yokai.
AI Overview
Comprehensive Overview of "The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Yokai" by Zack Davisson
Title: The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Yokai Author: Zack Davisson Publisher: Tuttle Publishing Publication Date: July 2, 2024 Format: Paperback, Softcover Number of Pages: 288 Illustrations: Over 250 color and black-and-white images
Key Themes:
- Japanese Folklore: The book delves deep into the rich and diverse world of Japanese folklore, exploring the various creatures known as Yokai.
- Supernatural Beings: It features a wide range of mysterious beings, including malevolent demons, chilling monsters, spectral ghosts, and enchanted beasts.
- Cultural Significance: The book highlights the significance of these supernatural entities in Japanese culture, shedding light on their role in the cultural tapestry of Japan.
- Historical Context: It provides historical context to the origins and evolution of these mythical creatures, making it a comprehensive guide to understanding Japan's supernatural pantheon.
Plot Summary:
The book is a detailed exploration of 100 of the most bizarre and haunting creatures from Japanese folklore. It includes iconic Yokai such as the enigmatic Amabie, the endearing Tofu Kozo, and the pitiful Kyokotsu, alongside lesser-known entities like the repulsive Akaname and the never-before-catalogued Kaiju. The author skillfully navigates the elusive realm of Yokai, revealing their mysteries and significance to Japanese culture.
Critical Reception:
- Accolades: Zack Davisson is described as a modern-day Lafcadio Hearn, following in the footsteps of the renowned author and translator who previously explored Japanese folklore.
- Reviews: The book has received positive reviews for its engaging storytelling and rich illustrations. It is praised for its ability to transport readers into a realm where the line between myth and reality blurs.
- Goodreads: The book has been well-received on Goodreads, with readers appreciating the detailed descriptions and the fascinating world of Yokai it presents.
Additional Information:
- Illustrations: The book is richly illustrated with over 250 color woodblock prints and paintings, which breathe new life into the age-old legends shared within.
- Author's Background: Zack Davisson is an award-winning translator, writer, and folklorist, known for his previous works such as YUREI: THE JAPANESE GHOST, YOKAI STORIES, and KAIBYO: THE JAPANESE MONSTERS.
Overall, "The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Yokai" by Zack Davisson offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Japan's supernatural pantheon, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in Japanese folklore and mythology.