Paperback (Clay & Yumi's)

NOTE: This is also available as an eBook in the Learn Japanese with Stories Digital Bundle. 71 Pages | Includes Digital Files | 5.5 x 8.5 inch Paperback   This is for the paperback which will be shipped to you. The Mouse Bride story is a charming Japanese folk tale about a father mouse and mother mouse trying to find the "greatest man on earth" for their one and only daughter to marry. One nice aspect of this story from a language learner’s point of view is similar sentence forms are repeated with the different characters. Beginners can get a lot out of this product, but hiragana and very basic Japanese is required. A PDF (for printing) A slow MP3 recording of the story  A normal speed MP3 recording Kindle and ePub eBook formats included Works with PCs or Macs Learn Japanese with Stories Volume 4: The Mouse Bride: Plus Ikkyu-san Read Real Japanese with Free MP3s ** Recommended for Upper Beginners of Japanese ** MP3s Included at no extra charge are two MP3s of the story. One is read at the normal speed and the other at a slow, easy to follow speed.  THE STORY The Mouse Bride story is a charming Japanese folk tale about a father mouse and mother mouse trying to find the “greatest man on earth” for their one and only daughter to marry. An additional bonus story is about the young, but wise priest Ikkyu and a certain painted tiger. Please note: Immediately after ordering, you'll receive an email with the download link; the physical paperback will be shipped as soon as possible

Learn Japanese with Yōkai Vol. 2: The Tengu [PAPERBACK + DIGITAL] A folklore-based Japanese reader for upper beginners who want to strengthen reading and listening skills through traditional stories of old Japan. Physical paperback • Includes free digital files for this volume (PDF + MP3 audio) Format Preview (From Another Volume) This preview is from a different book in the series and is provided to show the format, layout, audio style, and learning approach. Your Tengu volume follows the same structure. Normal Speed Audio (Sample) Slow Speed Audio (Sample) PDF Preview (Sample) Open in new tab About This Volume Living in shadows and the in-between world of dreams and reality, yōkai thrive in the Japanese imagination. They may appear as monsters, ghosts, unnatural beings, or even everyday objects that have taken on a life of their own. In this volume, you’ll explore the world of the tengu, legendary creatures associated with mountains and deep forests. While often mischievous or frightening, tengu are also known to show kindness and even wisdom toward humans. Early depictions portrayed tengu as bird-like creatures. Over time, they came to be represented as ascetic mountain priests known as yamabushi. Unlike ordinary yamabushi, tengu possess unnaturally long noses, carry a scroll called the tora no maki, and wield powerful magic. According to legend, tengu may have even taught ninjas their mysterious skills. What This Book Includes Three essays / stories centered on the tengu Each story presented in three formats:① Sentence-by-sentence Japanese with explanations② Japanese-only version to test reading ability③ Full English translation to confirm understanding Sentence-by-sentence sections include furigana over kanji, a complete glossary, and clear explanations of important grammar patterns in plain English Free audio downloads included (link provided on the final page of the book) Each story includes both normal-speed and slow-speed recordings read by Yumi Stories Included About the Tengu Origin of the Tengu Tengu Stories Who Is This Book For? This book is designed so that both newer learners and intermediate learners can find value. The ideal level, however, is upper beginner, roughly around JLPT N4. If you already know basic grammar and kana and want to start reading real Japanese— with guidance—this book is a natural next step. Interested in yōkai, folklore, and learning Japanese through stories? Click Add to Cart and continue your journey into Japan’s mysterious mountain world.

NOTE: This paperback is for the previous version and is 50% off. The stories weren't changed and the only difference with the new version is the formatting is much improved and the vocabulary and grammar explanations have been updated and expanded. Still, the old version will work perfectly with the audio and the Makoto+ Sentence Explorer integration if you want to snag a physical copy at half price. Note: This is the physical paperback version which will be shipped to your location. If you are looking for the digital only version, please click here.   280 pages | Paperback | Includes FREE MP3s and eBook formats   READ real Japanese Today! Are you a beginner to upper beginner level students of Japanese? If so, this reader is for you. Every word is defined and important grammatical patterns are explained in plain English. If you can read hiragana, you are ready for this book. BONUS! Get FREE Sound Files of each story. Listen while reading. The link to the MP3s is found on the last page. The Story:While on an intergalactic spy mission, Frank the alien crash landed in Japan and met Obaasan. In their first adventure, they helped prevent an inter-galactic war with the aid of natto. But now, a new menace has emerged which, once again, threatens the entire universe. * All Japanese kanji have furigana* 10 complete episodes in one story arc. Each story is presented in real Japanese (with furigana) and with a running gloss which breaks down all vocabulary and grammar points.* ENGLISH SUMMARY: Finally, we have included a simple and mostly literal English translation for you to check your understanding (Don’t cheat! Work through the Japanese first!).* Short stories makes reading full Japanese texts possible.* Download the FREE sound files to listen while you study. Frank and the Obaasan is a fun (certainly not serious) reader for beginners of Japanese. If you are looking for Japanese reading material that is fairly easy but not written for children, this is a resource for you. Finally, we invite the reader to contact us with questions or requests for future Japanese readers. You will find our personal email addresses in the book. To your Japanese! What are you waiting for? Ninja up your Japanese. Click “Buy Now” now!

NOTE: This paperback is for the previous version and is 50% off. The stories weren't changed and the only difference with the new version is the formatting is much improved and the vocabulary and grammar explanations have been updated and expanded. Still, the old version will work perfectly with the audio and the Makoto+ Sentence Explorer integration if you want to snag a physical copy at half price. Note: This is the physical paperback version which will be shipped to your location. If you are looking for the digital only version, please click here.   338 pages | Paperback | Includes FREE MP3s and eBook formats   READ real Japanese Today! Are you a beginner to upper beginner level students of Japanese? If so, this reader is for you. Every word is defined and important grammatical patterns are explained in plain English. If you can read hiragana, you are ready for this book. BONUS! Get FREE Sound Files of each story. Listen while reading. The link to the MP3s is found on the last page. The Stories:While on an intergalactic spy mission, Frank the alien loses control of his spaceship and plummets to Earth. Japan to be precise. Lacking Essential repair materials, Frank must learn the earthling’s language and find earth equivalents of the materials needed to repair his ship. With only a limited knowledge of Earth ways—and the Japanese language—Frank discovers a number of interesting things, not the least… natto. Join Frank and his new-found buddies in this multi-planetary adventure! * All Japanese kanji have furigana* 15 complete episodes. Each story is presented in real Japanese (with furigana) and with a running gloss which breaks down all vocabulary and grammar points.* ENGLISH SUMMARY: Finally, we have included a simple and mostly literal English translation for you to check your understanding (Don’t cheat! Work through the Japanese first!).* Short stories makes reading full Japanese texts possible.* Download the FREE MP3s to listen while you study. Frank and the Obaasan is a fun (certainly not serious) reader for beginners of Japanese. If you are looking for Japanese reading material that is fairly easy but not written for children, this is a resource for you. Finally, we invite the reader to contact us with questions or requests for future Japanese readers. You will find our personal email addresses in the book. To your Japanese! What are you waiting for? Ninja up your Japanese. Click “Buy Now” now!

NOTE: Don't need a physical book? This is also available in this Money-Saving Digital Bundle. 117 Pages | Includes Digital Files | 5.5 x 8.5 inch Paperback   Japanese Reader Collection: Learn Japanese with Stories Vol 5PAPERBACK VERSION   Note: this is a physical paperback that will be shipped to you. You'll also receive the digital files by email immediately after ordering.   The Shitakiri Suzume is a traditional Japanese folk tale about a kind old man, his mean wife, and a sparrow. Beginners can get a lot out of this product, but hiragana and very basic Japanese is required. Audio Only–listen while you drive, jog, or while relaxing. Newly re-recorded with CD quality audio! Audio includes the story read at normal speed & at a slow speed Audio also includes spaces for repetition and key vocabulary All kanji characters have furigana. Every sentence is broken down word-for-word and with explanation of the grammar. The full story in Japanese only (without the running gloss) is also provided so you can practice reading without interruption. Download the FREE MP3s to listen while you study. Japanese Reader Collection Volume 5: Shitakiri Suzume Perfect for beginning and upper beginning students of Japanese. This affordable Japanese reader will help you build your Japanese vocabulary, reading skills, and listening comprehension. Get FREE MP3s of the stories read by a native Japanese speaker. Listen while reading. You'll receive an email with the download link immediately after ordering. Shitakiri Suzume follows a common theme in Japanese fairy tales: a childless old couple raising a son or daughter. But instead of a human, the story revolves around a sparrow, the loving pet of the old man. Also common with other tales, there is a moral to the story. Don't be greedy! The second story, Kobutori Jiisan, teaches that a happy disposition often leads to happy conclusions.While beginners to Japanese can get a lot from this, hiragana knowledge is required. Finally, we invite the reader to contact us with questions or requests for future Japanese readers. You will find our personal email addresses in the book. To your Japanese! Please note: This is a physical paperback which will be shipped to you. You'll also receive a download link for the digital files immediately after ordering. Please check your spam folder if you don't see it.

Learn Japanese with 妖怪 Vol. 6: 山姥（やまんば） [PAPERBACK + DIGITAL] A folklore-based Japanese reader for upper beginners who want to build real reading confidence while exploring darker traditional tales. Physical paperback • Includes free digital files for this volume (PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki vocabulary deck) Format Preview (From Another Volume) This preview is from a different book in the series and is shown to demonstrate the format, layout, audio style, and learning approach. This 山姥（やまんば） volume follows the same structure. Normal Speed Audio (Sample) Slow Speed Audio (Sample) PDF Preview (Sample) Open in new tab About This Volume Living in shadows and the in-between world of dreams and reality, 妖怪 thrive in the Japanese imagination. They may appear as monsters, ghosts, unnatural beings, or even everyday objects that have taken on a life of their own. The 山姥（やまんば） is a terrifying mountain witch. She lives deep in the mountains and devours anyone who wanders into her domain. Unlike playful or mischievous yōkai, the 山姥 represents pure danger, isolation, and the fear of the wilderness. In this volume, you will explore two classic legends involving the 山姥. One tells the story of an ox-cart man who encounters her during his deliveries. The other follows a young priest armed with three magical charms that may protect him from her power. These stories are darker than most in the series and offer a fascinating look at how fear, survival, and faith appear in traditional Japanese folklore. Length: 201 pages What This Book Includes Multiple traditional stories centered on 山姥（やまんば） Each story presented in three formats:① Sentence-by-sentence Japanese with explanations② Japanese-only version for reading practice③ Full English translation to confirm understanding Sentence-by-sentence sections include furigana over kanji, a complete glossary, and clear explanations of important grammar patterns in plain English Free audio downloads included (link provided on the final page of the book) Each story includes both normal-speed and slow-speed recordings read by Yumi Includes PDF e-book versions, sound files, and an Anki deck of the vocabulary at no extra charge Stories Included 牛方と山姥（うしかたとやまんば） 山姥と三つの護符（やまんばとみっつのごふ） Who Is This Book For? This book is designed so that both newer learners and intermediate learners can benefit. The ideal level, however, is upper beginner, roughly around JLPT N4. If you are ready to move beyond simple textbook sentences and want to read traditional Japanese stories—with guidance—this volume is an excellent challenge. Ready to face one of Japan’s most frightening yōkai? Click Add to Cart and complete your journey through the Learn Japanese with 妖怪 series.

★For Upper Beginners Learning Japanese ★These readers are to not only help improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension but also to introduce tourist sites you may want to visit for your next Japan visit. It will also help you understand Japanese geography and culture as well. ♥ABOUT THIS VOLUME This volume includes two essays:  温泉 onsen - hot springs 地獄谷野猿公苑 Jigokudani - An onsen famous for its bathing monkeys 90 Pages FEATURES Includes two essays Each story is presented in three formats: 1) Sentence-by-Sentence with definition and commentary below 2) Japanese only (to test your reading ability) 3) English translation (to confirm your understanding) The Sentence-by Sentence section of each story presents a small chunk of the Japanese with furigana over the kanji and a complete glossary of all the words; important grammatical patterns are pointed out and explained in plain English Find a link to download sound files for the stories (for no extra charge) on the last page of the book Or use the QR codes to scan with your phone's camera for on-demand audio Each story has a slow and normal speed recording of the Japanese read by Yumi    WHO IS THIS FOR? This book is designed so that both those fairly new to Japanese and those in the intermediate stages can equally find value. The ideal level, however, is for the upper beginner, somewhere around the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N4 or N3 (intermediate).    If you are learning Japanese and look forward to your next Japan trip, click the Buy Now button to begin studying now. 

For Beginning to Intermediate Students of JapaneseVocabulary through memesMemes. They are everywhere these days. A meme is most often an humorous image with text that is spread rapidly by internet users. We think funny memes can be a good way to learn vocabulary and Japanese sentence structure.The memes found in this collection were posted on our Instagram over the past few years and have been edited and expanded for this book.The sentences found in this collection may or may not be beginner level, but every word and grammar point is explained so even beginners can understand. Nearly all examples are very casual, and while mostly suitable for using around friends, it isn’t recommended for use with people you’ve just met.If you find a sentence you like, try memorizing it so you can plug and play other words to use the form in different contexts.The sentences are short and represent natural Japanese you may not find in regular Japanese textbooks.Who is this for?Any student of Japanese wanting to improve Japanese vocabulary and an understanding of casual Japanese sentence structure. What's included? 50 memes with funny sayings in Japanese Example sentences Literal and more natural translations so you can gain a better understanding of Japanese sentence structure. Every word defined and grammar explained Download sound files of every sentence read both slowly and at normal speed - No extra charge - Link found in the back of the book As with any of our books, you'll find the authors' email in the book. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We'll be happy to help, if we can.がんばってください！

Learn Japanese with Yōkai Vol. 5: 人魚 (Japanese Mermaids) [PAPERBACK + DIGITAL] A folklore-based Japanese reader for upper beginners who want to improve reading and listening skills while discovering lesser-known aspects of Japanese mythology. Physical paperback • Includes free digital files for this volume (PDF + MP3 audio) Format Preview (From Another Volume) This preview is from a different book in the series and is shown to demonstrate the format, layout, audio style, and learning approach. Your Ningyō volume follows the same structure. Normal Speed Audio (Sample) Slow Speed Audio (Sample) PDF Preview (Sample) Open in new tab About This Volume Living in shadows and the in-between world of dreams and reality, yōkai thrive in the Japanese imagination. They may appear as monsters, ghosts, unnatural beings, or even everyday objects that have taken on a life of their own. Mermaids in Japanese folklore are known as 人魚（にんぎょ）, but they are very different from the beautiful, seductive creatures found in Western legends. Japanese 人魚 can be unsettling, grotesque, and even eerie. Sometimes their “human” features appear bird-like—or even ape-like. 人魚（にんぎょ） usually appear at night and emerge from the sea. They possess strange powers, and according to legend, eating their flesh may grant an extraordinarily long life. These stories connect Japanese folklore with history, religion, and modern culture—making them both compelling reading practice and valuable cultural study. Length: 85 pages What This Book Includes Three essays / stories focused on 人魚（にんぎょ） folklore Each story presented in three formats:① Sentence-by-sentence Japanese with explanations② Japanese-only version for reading practice③ Full English translation to confirm understanding Sentence-by-sentence sections include furigana over kanji, a complete glossary, and clear explanations of important grammar patterns in plain English Free audio downloads included (link provided on the final page of the book) Each story includes both normal-speed and slow-speed recordings read by Yumi Stories Included The Nihon Shoki and Mummies The 800-Year-Old Nun Amabie Who Is This Book For? This book is designed so that both newer learners and intermediate learners can benefit. The ideal level, however, is upper beginner, roughly around JLPT N4. If you already know basic grammar and kana and want to explore deeper cultural stories while improving your Japanese, this volume fits perfectly into that stage. Curious about Japan’s darker, stranger mermaid legends? Click Add to Cart and continue your journey through Japanese folklore—one yōkai at a time.

Learn Japanese with Yōkai Vol. 3: Oni [PAPERBACK + DIGITAL] A folklore-based Japanese reader for upper beginners who want to build real reading confidence while deepening their understanding of Japanese culture. Physical paperback • Includes free digital files for this volume (PDF + MP3 audio) Format Preview (From Another Volume) This preview is from a different book in the series and is shown to demonstrate the format, layout, audio style, and learning approach. Your Oni volume follows the same structure. Normal Speed Audio (Sample) Slow Speed Audio (Sample) PDF Preview (Sample) Open in new tab About This Volume Living in shadows and the in-between world of dreams and reality, yōkai thrive in the Japanese imagination. They may appear as monsters, ghosts, unnatural beings, or even everyday objects that have taken on a life of their own. With their horned heads and fearsome appearance, oni are often compared to ogres in Western folklore. But in Japan, oni are everywhere. Traditional tales, children’s songs, seasonal festivals, and proverbs are filled with references to them. By reading these stories, you won’t just improve your Japanese— you’ll also build cultural literacy and start noticing oni references throughout Japanese media and everyday language. Length: 97 pages What This Book Includes Three essays / stories centered on oni Each story presented in three formats:① Sentence-by-sentence Japanese with explanations② Japanese-only version for reading practice③ Full English translation to confirm understanding Sentence-by-sentence sections include furigana over kanji, a complete glossary, and clear explanations of important grammar patterns in plain English Free audio downloads included (link provided on the final page of the book) Each story includes both normal-speed and slow-speed recordings read by Yumi Stories Included Oni: Part One Oni’s Descendants Namahage Who Is This Book For? This book is designed so that both newer learners and intermediate learners can find value. The ideal level, however, is upper beginner, roughly around JLPT N4. If you already know basic grammar and kana and want to read real Japanese— with guidance—this book fits perfectly into that transition stage. Ready to explore one of Japan’s most iconic yōkai? Click Add to Cart and continue your journey through Japanese folklore—one story at a time.

★For Upper Beginners Learning Japanese ★These readers are to not only help improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension but also to introduce tourist sites you may want to visit for your next Japan visit. It will also help you understand Japanese geography and culture as well. ♥ABOUT THIS VOLUME This volume includes two essays:  Mt Fuji - the most iconic mountain in Japan The Beckoning Cat - They are everywhere, greeting shoppers throughout Japan 84 Pages FEATURES Includes two essays Each story is presented in three formats: 1) Sentence-by-Sentence with definition and commentary below 2) Japanese only (to test your reading ability) 3) English translation (to confirm your understanding) The Sentence-by Sentence section of each story presents a small chunk of the Japanese with furigana over the kanji and a complete glossary of all the words; important grammatical patterns are pointed out and explained in plain English Find a link to download sound files for the stories (for no extra charge) on the last page of the book Or use the QR codes to scan with your phone's camera for on-demand audio Each story has a slow and normal speed recording of the Japanese read by Yumi    WHO IS THIS FOR? This book is designed so that both those fairly new to Japanese and those in the intermediate stages can equally find value. The ideal level, however, is for the upper beginner, somewhere around the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N4 or N3 (intermediate).    If you are learning Japanese and look forward to your next Japan trip, click the Buy Now button to begin studying now.