“Once upon a time- the story began.
The boy cradled the loosely bound book in his lap, enchanted by a brush-and-ink drawing of the full moon rising over majestic Mount Fuji. Tiny figures stood in the foreground, a humble woodcutter discovering a princess in bright, flowing robes in the middle of a feathery bamboo forest.”
This week I joined the book tour for Tarō by Blue Spruell and I was absolutely pleased that I did. When the book arrived in the post, I was extremely surprised. It has a soft touch cover, and is gorgeously illustrated by Miya Outlaw. I couldn’t wait to get engrossed, and that is exactly what happened!
Tarō combines three stories and creates one magical tale of Japan’s legendary hero. The story will take you on a beautifully descriptive adventure to ensure Taro’s future isn’t that of a Samurai. Expect swords, mythical creatures and magic as you join Tarō to discover his destiny.
I would recommend purchasing a physical copy to fully appreciate how beautiful it is. You can grab a copy of Tarō here on Amazon.
Blurb:
Tarō is the heroic tale of Japan’s legendary boy samurai. Author Blue Spruell reimagines traditional Japanese folklore in a historical fantasy adventure filled with samurai swords, martial arts, and mythical Japanese creatures from old Japan. . . .
Lost in the mists of Mount Fuji. But no one can escape destiny.
The year is 1596 when samurai warlords fight for control of the Imperial throne. Tarō does not want to be a samurai-like his father, but fate takes a hand when a witch enchants the boy. Gaining supernatural powers, and befriending the magical forest animals of Mount Fuji, Tarō saves a powerful warlord’s life and discovers his destiny—as he hurtles headlong into the total war for ultimate control of Japan.
A bit about Blue Spruell:
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Blue Spruell lived and worked in Japan for several years before returning to Atlanta. A trial lawyer and certified mediator, he runs his own firm, The Outlaw Firm, specializing in family law and civil litigation. An internationally recognized black belt instructor, he also owns Peachtree Aikikai, a dōjo for Japanese martial arts.
Words by Michelle Stannard
The Alt Entertainer 