Jingu: The Hidden Princess

by Ralph Pray

In fourth-century Japan, a princess lives a life of loneliness and learning until she makes a secret friend, but her destiny forbids that they ever be more than friends.

80 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2002

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very brief, yet interesting book that describes the life of Princess Jingu. She is better known as the Grand Empress of Japan and is most beloved of her country. This book is very enjoyable and only takes about 45 minutes to read. There are some wonderful illustrations scattered throughout the book and the story is written so both adults and children can enjoy it. I found this book could easily be incorporated into a homeschooling environment; if one were doing a report on ancient Japan and possibly the female nobility. This is a great introduction to a woman who helped shaped a long established country.

[VJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fictionalized version of the life of Empress Jingu. I have seen the name written as Jengu.

I like this book because I learned something about 4th C Japan that I did not know: Japanese was not a written language until after Empress Jingu came to power.

The story was sweet, but emphasis on doing one's duty and the method of instilling such an attitude are made plain in this short fiction. Relative isolation, intellectual stimulation, and an understanding that one's life is not one's own, but belongs to the country, coupled with a willing spirit may result in a person like the Empress Jingu.

A lovely good read.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would say - read it. See for yourself. It is quick and the message appears in the last two pages. I did it with very engaged and silly 3rd graders which made it more fun. Not too much history - just a few light things to touch on if you want. I do not think my group of 2nd graders coming up next year will be at the same maturity level as these, I probably won't read it again for a few years.