THE WAY OF THE WARRIOR

In 16th-century Japan, Jimmu Shimomura is orphaned when his parents commit ritual suicide to preserve the family honor. Jimmu’s father’s samurai bodyguard, Araki Nichiren, trains the boy with the sole purpose of exacting revenge on Lord Ankan, who caused the Shimomuras’ downfall. After Nichiren’s death, Jimmu becomes a castle guard and then a bodyguard for Ankan, but the Ankan whom Jimmu comes to know is vastly different from the monster he was brought up to hate. Jimmu must decide what the right and honorable course of action is. Prolific British author Matthews has crafted a short, action-filled adventure sure to satisfy reluctant readers and those interested in pre–Edo Period feudal Japan. The story is not based on real events, but the political leaders are realistically portrayed and the historical setting is nicely evoked. The battles are violent if bloodless, and there is a budding romance. A good choice for most collections. (Historical fiction. 10-14)