Little Inchkin

by Fiona French

In feudal Japan, little Inchkin, though only a few inches tall, becomes an honored Samurai swordsman

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1994

Reviews

[Michael Fitzgerald · Rating 3 out of 5]

Apparently a folktale? Would have been nice to see a note on its history and sources. Great illustrations, as usual.

[Mae · Rating 1 out of 5]

Completely strays from the original story, not at all upholding Japanese values. The pictures are okay but I would not recommend reading this to a child in the hopes of expanding their cultural awareness. Issunbōshi is a picture book written by Robert B. Goodman and Robert A. Spicer, and illustrated by George Suyeoka that accurately depicts this story. Can't find that one? There's also The Inch-High Samuraï, by Ralph F McCarthy, that also sticks close to the original story, without inflating it with American ideologies such as not loving your own child and being a bragging little brat. Save time and don't read it.

[Miss Wormbook · Rating 2 out of 5]

The story itself was interesting, but I found the writing and the illustrations too plain and simple to give it justice.

[Marcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A favorite folk tale from Japan. Reminiscent of Tom Thumb, Thumbelina, and The Rainbabies the story begins with a couple hoping for a child. When the child arrives it is no bigger than a pea pod, causing the parents great embarrassment. He sets off, proves his courage, catches the eye of the princess and by the powers of the great Buddha is given his full size. He becomes a great samurai and lives happily ever after. Beautiful watercolor illustrations and carefully detailed panels depict the Japanese setting. A winner.

[Mathew · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Japanese retelling of Tom Thumb. As French did with Snow White, this retelling is beautiful to look at but feels more like an excuse for her to explore and play with Japanese art rather than consider narrative or giving us a true representation of old Japan.

[Bonnie Pohlig · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story of a boy who proves himself a true warrior. Nice colorful pictures.

[Samantha]

I LOVED the illustrations!