June 2020

Written in the eleventh century, this exquisite portrait of courtly life in medieval Japan is widely celebrated as the world’s first novel. Genji, the Shining Prince, is the son of an emperor. He is a passionate character whose tempestuous nature, family circumstances, love affairs, alliances, and shifting political fortunes form the core of this magnificent epic.

Murasaki Shikibu, born in 978, was a member of Japan’s Fujiwara clan, which ruled behind the scenes during the Heian Period by providing the brides and courtesans of all the emperors. Lady Murasaki’s rare literary talent, particularly her skill as a poet, secured her a place in the court of Empress Akiko. After the death of her husband, she cloistered herself to study Buddhism, raise her daughter, and write the world’s first novel Genji Monogatari, the tale of the shining Prince Genji.

If this sounds like something you'd like to read, you can get your copy of the book from the store or online with a 15% discount through the end of June. Remember, you can have it shipped directly to you or come pick it up curbside or in-store (just be sure to schedule an appointment)!

Buy Here:

Paperback
Audiobook
​​

Reviews

"The Sensualist: What Makes The Tale of Genji So Seductive" -- The New Yorker
"The Tale of Genji: The Work of a Brilliant Widow 1,000 Years Ago" -- The Washington Post
"The Tale of Genji and the Art It Inspired" -- The NY Times
​

We'll meet via Google Meetings on June 27th at 7:30pm. Simply click on this link and we will see you there! Please come discuss the book with us, even if you weren't able to completely finish it or if you didn't like it. You can see the Facebook event & RSVP here. ​