Japanese Folktales For Language Learners

Learn about Japanese culture while improving your language skills! Japanese Folktales for Language Learners introduces 22 traditional Japanese folktales in bilingual Japanese and English versions, along with detailed notes and exercises aimed at beginners. The book can be used as a reader by Japanese students or by any folktale-lover wishing to learn about Japanese culture. This elegantly illustrated volume is designed to help language learners expand their vocabulary and grammar. The stories gradually increase in length and complexity as the reader's language skills improve. The 22 fascinating stories include: "The Candy-Buying Ghost"--A female ghost mysteriously buys candy every night from a small village candy shop, until one night she reveals her true identity and her tragic story. "The Old Man Who Made Trees Blossom"--Regarded as one of the five great Japanese folktales, this is the touching story of a kind old man who uses his magical powers for good. "The Granny-Dumping Mountain"--An elderly woman is abandoned on top of a mountain by her own son, a reference to the mythical practice of senicide in Japan. And many more! Cultural notes, comprehension exercises, and discussion questions further reinforce understanding of the stories and bolster language skills. There is also an overview of the Japanese hiragana and katakana scripts, and of verb and adjective forms. Japanese Folktales for Language Learners is sure to delight students and readers of all kinds.