Issun Boshi: One-Inch Boy: A Japanese Folktale

by Nadia Higgins (Adapter), J.T. Morrow

Children will love the ancient tale of Issun Boshi, a one-inch-tall boy who falls in love with a princess, slays a monster, and, through the power of a magical hammer, returns to normal size.

24 pages, Library Binding

First published August 1, 2011

About the author

Nadia Higgins is the author of 50-plus books for children. She also worked as an editor in the industry for almost ten years. Many of her books have a science bent, though she’s also written about pop stars, car art, and zombies.

Nadia's favorite part of being a writer is doing research. "I'm always looking for that vivid detail or off-the-wall fact," she says. Her books often use humor or fiction techniques to bring a nonfiction topic to life.

Besides writing, Nadia enjoys dancing, making soup, and doing puzzles. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband and two young daughters.

Reviews

[Jon Nakapalau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent retelling of this Japanese folktale.

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent story, I'm glad it's been translated.

[Anton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those who see with just their eyes
Issun Boshi will surprise!

[Bethe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Part a series of short, 24 page, folktales, this one features the Japanese story of the one inch boy. Japanese phrases are peppered throughout the story, adding an authentic feel. The illustrations also have a nice Asian flavor. Back matter includes the author's take on the genre of folktales, specific information on this tale, and also a moral to the story, inviting the reader to not judge a person by their looks.