Tono Monogatari
Shigeru Mizuki TRANS. ZACK DAVISSON
Reviewed by Sam Campbell
Critically acclaimed mangaka Shigeru Mizuki’s collection, Tono Monogatari, has been skillfully translated from Japanese by Zack Davisson. The book, which is a beautiful display of gathered oral stories and folklore, demonstrates the importance of handing down stories from generation to generation. What began with the community of Tono telling stories amongst themselves became in 1910 a joint project between Kunio Yanagita and Kizen Sakasi as they attempted to write those stories down to preserve them during a time when folklore was being forgotten. Because of their work, and now the work of Mizuki and Davisson, we are able to remember, learn from, and enjoy the classic stories of yokai.
Brilliant illustrations—both black and white and color—intertwine with folklore, history, and tradition in this collection. The book opens with a brief history of Tono Monogatari and the people involved in making the book a reality. Then, we are taken on a journey with an animated Mizuki as our guide as he narrates the yokai for us. Interspersed between stories are bits of Japanese history that exemplify how these stories have shaped Japanese culture and continue to have an impact today. For example, after reading stories of evil spirits that roam the mountains near Tono, we learn that “travelers today never use the mountain pass called Fuefuki-Toge” because of its reputation. Instead, they will use the newer route, even though it is longer. These bits of cultural and historical information are what make this collection so special. Mizuki puts folklore into context which enhances its meaning. We are able to see the impact that storytelling has, the power with which it shapes life and our understanding of the world around us. Like Mizuki writes, “Whatever the truth may be, it is long lost to time. All that remains are legends.”
Tono Monogatari opens the door to a new way of experiencing Japan’s history and culture. Pick up a copy of this collection, read it, and share with others like the book itself requests: “May the legends continue to be told.”