While the original author of "Battle of the Monkey & the Crab" is unknown, David Thompson can be thanked for its translation. This story could be considered a child's book, but that would belittle the tale. Following the same footsteps as many myths from across the world, the story may focus on two creatures in the animal kingdom, but it is aimed for the entertainment and understanding of people of all ages. Thanks to Thompson, this charming story didn't become lost to history.

This collection of Japanese fairy tales is the outcome of a suggestion made to me indirectly through a friend by Mr. Andrew Lang. They have been translated from the modern version written by Sadanami Sanjin. These stories are not literal translations, and though the Japanese story and all quaint Japanese expressions have been faithfully preserved, they have been told more with the view to interest young readers of the West than the technical student of folk-lore.... In telling these stories in English I have followed my fancy in adding such touches of local color or description as they seemed to need or as pleased me, and in one or two instances I have gathered in an incident from another version. At all times, among my friends, both young and old, English or American, I have always found eager listeners to the beautiful legends and fairy tales of Japan, and in telling them I have also found that they were still unknown to the vast majority...

A greedy, thoughtless monkey gets his comeuppance when the animals band together.

Learn about Japanese culture while improving your language skills! Japanese Folktales for Language Learners presents 22 traditional stories in parallel Japanese and English versions on facing pages, with detailed notes and exercises aimed at beginning to intermediate learners. This book can be used as a language reader and will be of great interest to anyone wishing to learn more about Japanese culture and folklore. The stories in this collection gradually increase in length and complexity as the book progresses. They include: "The Candy-Buying Ghost" - A female ghost mysteriously buys candy every night from a small village 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 ? ve greatest Japanese folktales, this touching story tells of a kind old man who uses his magical powers for good. "The Abandoned Mother" - An elderly woman is abandoned at the top of a mountain by her own son, a reference to the old practice of senicide in Japan. Vocabulary lists, cultural notes, exercises and discussion questions help to reinforce an understanding of the stories and bolster language skills. Free online recordings of all the stories are provided.

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