Lafcadio Hearn's "The Faceless Ghost" and Other Macabre Tales from Japan

March 1, 2016

Gr 8 Up-A well-done graphic novel featuring new interpretations of traditional Japanese tales of terror. With six stories of vengeful spirits, mischievous men, and wayward journeys, this graphic novel offers a beautifully drawn interpretation of Lafcadio Hearn's famous renditions of Japanese tales of suspense. Fans can find these selections in various collections, but this work cleverly compiles an interesting group of stories that offer an introduction to Japanese horror folklore. Wilson closely mirrors traditional methods of translation as he reimagines each piece for a graphic modern adventure. While this method creates a mood akin to that felt when reading a more traditional story format, it may prevent immersion from some readers not used to this type of "subtle scare" in their horror. On the other hand, illustrator Morikawa's depictions perfectly capture the essence of each adventure with captivating character models and adept landscapes. With audiences with a high interest in Japanese horror, this graphic novel may circulate well. Tighter collections may want to pick graphic titles from Edogawa Ranpo or Junji Ito. VERDICT Purchase for collections with fans of Japanese folklore.-DeHanza Kwong, Central Piedmont Community College, Charlotte, NC

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2016
Half-a-dozen of famed Japanophile Hearn's collection of traditional tales of the supernatural are presented in this collection in suitably moody sequential art. Wilson's storyboarding and Morikawa's beautifully detailed images give readers a seemingly medieval Japan, in which life is mostly simple and unadorned by fashion or consumer goods. The title story is perhaps the most frightening to read in this style, with the appearance of the eponymous specter no less terrifying after the build-up of suspense. Other tales here treat a snow spirit insisting on keeping an act of mercy a secret, a gnome-like creature who weeps jewels, and the deadly regret of a woman who contributes to her village's temple bell. Beautifully fashioned in accordance with Hearn's own storytelling aesthetics, this collection makes an excellent crossover title for those inexperienced with graphic novels as well as those unfamiliar with traditional Japanese ghost stories. Hand to fans of Emily Carroll's eerie collection, Through the Woods (2014).(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)