Samurai

The Samurai's Tale

By: Erik Christian Haugaard

Summary:

     The Samurai's Tale follows the life of Taro as he transforms from a young boy playing with wooden swords to a powerful Samurai.  Taro's parents are killed by Lord Takeda at the beginning of the story.  

     Instead of killing Taro, as is customarily done of your enemies children, Takeda spares Taro and allows him to become a servant of Lord Akiyama.  Written as a memoir, Taro reflects on his early days as a cook, stable boy, messenger, and finally, Samurai.  

     This story does an amazing job of discussing Samurai life, customs of Ancient Japan, and political intrigue that occurred at the time.  

Teaching Tips:

 1) I would recommend this story for grades six and above.  The content is not difficult to understand, nor is the vocabulary.  Rather, the names of the characters and their role in the story is what most students will struggle with.  

 2) Haugaard provides a character list at the beginning of the story.  This list provides main characters' names and a description of who they are.  Print this off for your students, or (type up a new copy)....they are going to need it.  This was by far the most confusing part of the story for me.  Fathers and sons share similar first names, and there is constant political happenings that are influencing the plot of the story.  

 3) This is a great book for any student who would be interested in Samurai.  Taro's journey from an orphan servant to one of the most trustworthy Samurais serving Lord Akiyama is fascinating and page turning.  

Other Samurai Titles by Erik Christian Haugaard: