The Possible Impossibles of Ikkyu the Wise

by I.G. Edmonds

Ten tales recount the clever and wise deeds of the legendary Japanese monk.

121 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1971

Reviews

[SmokingMirror · Rating 5 out of 5]

In honor of finding one of my two copies of The Case of the Marble Monster, a book I love from childhood, probably one of my top ten favorites, I bestow five stars on another book of Japanese folk tales adapted by I. G. Edmonds, even though I probably would not give it more than four, but for the Ooka connection. Ikkyu is well worth reading, although his "possible impossible" catchphrase outlasts its enjoyability. Like Ooka, the character Ikkyu is based on an historical figure. Though from his bibliography Mr. Edmonds (or is it Ms? As a child I assumed Mr.) seems to be a writer for hire, I plan to read soon his book about the Khmers, another volume that reappeared during the reorganization of my books. I have hopes for it, for my experience is that I.G. Edmonds is an insightful writer.