100 Tales from the Tokyo Ghost Café
By Julian Sedgwick
Illustrations by Kutsuwada Chie
Guppy Books (2023)
ISBN-13: 978-1913101886
Review by Hananircia Tchinhenha
The haunting landscape of Japan's north beckons a young Akira who yearns for home. With Julian Sedgwick and Kutsuwada Chie, he embarks on a harrowing journey into a world of spirits and shadows with the mission to collect yokai stories. Together, they explore the twilight realm that lies within the bounds of Fear Mountain, where creatures of myth and legend lurk in the darkness.
If this isn’t enough of a calling for young horror fans, what is? Authored by Carnegie Medal For Writing Nominee Julian Sedgwick and illustrated by award winning mangaka Kutsuwada Chie, 100 tales from the Tokyo Ghost Café is a thrilling adventure that captures the imagination with evocative writing, tied together by exciting and well drawn illustrations. This collaboration was previously seen in the excellent Tsunami Girl. 100 tales from the Tokyo Ghost Café explores the vastness of Japanese mythology and folklore. From the famous kappa folk story to the modernised urban legend of the kuchisake-onna (Slit-mouthed woman). From start to finish, it is evident that this book is not simply a selection of mythical creatures and folklore stories. 100 tales from the Tokyo Ghost Café is a compelling story of longing, friendship and bonds.
For young people who admire Japanese culture and would like to make a start on learning the Japanese language, this book is an excellent starting point as it contains a variety of Japanese words and phrases as well as a mini-glossary. This high attention to detail provides an extra layer of authenticity, showing a clear commitment to providing a rich, in-depth storytelling experience whilst ensuring that the reader understands the story. Each character is well-developed and engaging, with strong personalities that drive the plot forward, pulling readers into the action and keeping them turning the pages long into the night as I myself did.
Overall, 100 tales from the Tokyo Ghost Café is a riveting and thrilling adventure that will captivate readers from the very first page. Its blend of traditional writing and visual elements from the illustrations create a unique and heartwarming story that draws the reader in. It is an unforgettable read that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who picks it up. Whether you're a fan of Japanese folklore, horror, or just a good old-fashioned adventure, 100 tales from the Tokyo Ghost Café is a must read that has left me with no critique and a thirst for more.