Blood and battles abound in the epic story of one of Japan’s first samurai.
Recommended grade level: 6 and up
Pages: 236 (for ISBN 9781580895842)
Genre(s) and keywords: nonfiction, action, history, international, Asia (Japan)
Tone/Style: grimly gleeful
Pace: fast
Topics: samurai, medieval Japan, war, revenge
Summary: Child exile. Teenage runaway. Military genius. Immortal hero.
Yoshitsune had little going for him. Exiled to a monastery, he had no money, no allies, and no martial training. He wasn’t big or strong or good-looking. His only assets were brains, ambition, and a dream. But childhood dreams can change history.
A dystopian society, Indian culture, and feminist commentary combine to make this a unique read.