Japanese Readers

Japan’s Jidai Series Vol. 5: Sengoku & Edo Periods Discover the chaos and calm of feudal Japan—battles, shoguns, tea ceremony, and city life—while building real Japanese skills. Includes paperback + digital bundle (PDF, MP3 audio, Anki flashcards). Upper Beginner–Intermediate Engaging history with approachable Japanese and a smooth difficulty curve. Line-by-Line Support Each line includes vocabulary and grammar explanations. Audio via QR Codes Professionally recorded MP3s at slow and natural speeds. Anki Deck Included Reinforce key vocabulary on the go with the bundled deck. What You’ll Learn Sengoku (“Warring States”) Period: Civil war, strategy, and unification under leaders like Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Edo Period: Peace, city culture, and refined arts—from tea ceremony and kabuki to ukiyo-e prints. Language Growth: Authentic-style passages plus built-in notes to deepen reading, grammar, and vocabulary. Inside the Book Triple-Format Essays: Line-by-line (JP + notes), Japanese-only, and full English translations. Furigana Support: Build kanji confidence as you read. Audio Access: Scan QR codes to stream or download MP3s (slow & natural). What’s Included Beautiful paperback shipped to you Instant download link after purchase (PDF + MP3 audio + Anki deck) Line-by-line notes, furigana, and English translations Who It’s For Learners from upper-beginner to intermediate who want structured, meaningful reading on Japan’s age of upheaval and unity—with full linguistic support. Your paperback purchase includes the complete digital bundle (PDF, MP3, and Anki). The download link is delivered immediately after checkout; the paperback ships soon after. Details Series: Japan’s Jidai (Volume 5) Focus: Sengoku & Edo Periods Level: Upper Beginner – Intermediate Includes: Paperback + PDF + MP3 + Anki Flashcards Publisher: TheJapanShop.com When do I get the digital files? Immediately after purchase. You’ll receive a download link for the PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki deck. Your paperback ships soon after. Is this suitable if I’m new to history topics? Yes—each passage has line-by-line notes, furigana, and full English translations to keep you moving with confidence. Can I use the Anki deck on my phone? Absolutely—works great with AnkiDroid and AnkiMobile for on-the-go review.

Japan’s Jidai Series Vol. 4: Kamakura & Muromachi Periods Unravel the age of the samurai—shoguns, Zen, and iconic arts—while improving your Japanese. Includes paperback + digital bundle (PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki flashcards). Upper Beginner–Intermediate Real history with approachable language and a smooth difficulty curve. Line-by-Line Support Each Japanese line includes vocabulary and grammar explanations. Audio via QR Codes Stream or download native recordings for listening and shadowing. Anki Deck Included Reinforce key vocabulary anywhere with the bundled deck. What You’ll Learn Kamakura Period: The rise of the samurai, shogunate politics, and the Mongol invasions that shaped national identity. Muromachi Period: Zen aesthetics, Noh theater, and cultural brilliance set against an era of shifting power. Language Growth: Read authentic-style passages with built-in vocabulary and grammar insights to deepen understanding. Inside the Book Line-by-Line Reader: Clear Japanese text with detailed notes beneath each line. Furigana Support: Build kanji confidence while reading. English Translations: Review and confirm comprehension at the end. Audio Access: Scan QR codes to listen at normal and slow speeds. What’s Included Beautiful paperback shipped to you Instant download link after purchase (PDF + MP3 audio + Anki deck) Furigana and line-by-line notes English translations for deeper comprehension Who It’s For Learners from upper-beginner to intermediate who want structured, meaningful reading about Japanese history—with full linguistic support. Step into the samurai era—your paperback purchase includes the complete digital bundle (PDF, MP3, and Anki). Download link delivered immediately after checkout. Details Series: Japan’s Jidai (Volume 4) Focus: Kamakura & Muromachi Periods Level: Upper Beginner – Intermediate Includes: Paperback + PDF + MP3 + Anki Flashcards Publisher: TheJapanShop.com When will I get the digital files? Immediately after purchase, you’ll receive a download link for the PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki deck. Your paperback ships soon after. Is this suitable if I’m new to history topics? Yes—each passage is supported line-by-line with vocabulary and grammar notes, plus furigana and English translations for clarity. Can I use the Anki deck on my phone? Absolutely—works great with AnkiDroid and AnkiMobile for on-the-go study.

Japan’s Jidai Series Vol. 3: Nara & Heian Periods Experience Japan’s golden age—poetry, palaces, and power shifts—while mastering Japanese. Includes paperback + digital bundle (PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki flashcards). Upper-Beginner Friendly Guided, approachable readings with smooth difficulty. Line-by-Line Support Japanese text + vocabulary and grammar notes for every line. Audio via QR Codes Listen to native recordings for shadowing and pronunciation. Anki Flashcards Included Reinforce vocabulary anywhere with the downloadable deck. What You’ll Learn Nara Period: Buddhism under imperial patronage, monumental temples, and early state reforms. Heian Period: Refined court culture, waka poetry, and shifting political power through regency and marriages. Cultural Legacy: How these eras forged Japan’s literary and artistic foundations. Inside the Book Line-by-Line Reader: Clear passages with vocabulary and grammar breakdowns. Furigana Support: Build kanji confidence while reading. English Translations: Check comprehension at the end. Audio Access: Scan QR codes to stream or download MP3s. What’s Included Beautiful paperback mailed to you Instant download link after purchase (PDF + MP3 + Anki deck) Furigana and line-by-line notes English translations for deeper comprehension Who It’s For Learners at the upper-beginner level who want meaningful reading practice and cultural depth—with full support for understanding every line. Step into Japan’s golden age—your paperback purchase includes the complete digital bundle (PDF, MP3, and Anki). Download link delivered immediately after checkout. Details Series: Japan’s Jidai (Volume 3) Focus: Nara & Heian Periods Level: Upper Beginner Includes: Paperback + PDF + MP3 + Anki Flashcards Publisher: TheJapanShop.com When do I get the digital files? Immediately after purchase, you’ll receive a download link for the PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki deck. Your paperback ships soon after. Is furigana included? Yes—furigana is provided to support kanji reading. Use the full-text section and English translations to test comprehension. Can I use the Anki deck on mobile? Absolutely. The deck works great with AnkiDroid and AnkiMobile for on-the-go study.

Japan’s Jidai Series Vol. 2: Kofun & Asuka Periods Uncover Japan’s ancient power struggles and spiritual awakening—while improving your Japanese! Includes paperback + digital files (PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki flashcards). Upper Beginner–Intermediate Level Ideal for learners seeking real Japanese reading practice with cultural depth. Line-by-Line Support Every Japanese line comes with vocabulary and grammar explanations. Audio via QR Codes Listen to native speakers for better pronunciation and listening comprehension. Anki Flashcards Included Reinforce vocabulary on the go with the downloadable Anki deck. What You’ll Learn Kofun Period: Explore the rise of powerful clans and their monumental keyhole-shaped tombs guarded by haniwa clay figures. Asuka Period: Witness Japan’s first political reforms, the spread of Buddhism, and the visionary leadership of Empress Suiko and Prince Shōtoku. Cultural Foundations: Understand how these eras shaped Japan’s political identity, religion, and art. Inside the Book Line-by-Line Reader: Clear Japanese text with vocabulary and grammar breakdowns. Furigana Support: Every kanji is supported by furigana for smooth reading. Full English Translations: Check comprehension at the end of each section. Audio Access: Stream or download MP3s via QR codes. What’s Included Beautiful paperback book shipped to you Instant download link (PDF + MP3 audio + Anki flashcard deck) Line-by-line Japanese with grammar notes Furigana and English translations Who It’s For Learners from upper-beginner to intermediate levels who want to explore Japanese history through meaningful, structured reading—complete with full linguistic support. Step into Japan’s formative centuries—where myth meets history. Your paperback purchase includes the complete digital bundle (PDF, MP3, and Anki deck). Details Series: Japan’s Jidai (Volume 2) Focus: Kofun & Asuka Periods Level: Upper Beginner – Intermediate Includes: Paperback + PDF + MP3 + Anki Flashcards Publisher: Kotoba Books When will I receive the digital files? You’ll receive a download link immediately after purchase. Your paperback will ship soon after. Are the QR codes in the book active? Yes—each QR code links directly to the matching MP3 audio for the passage you’re reading. Can I use the Anki deck on my phone? Absolutely! The deck works perfectly on AnkiDroid and AnkiMobile apps for on-the-go study.

Japan’s Jidai Series Vol. 1: Jōmon & Yayoi Periods Discover Japan’s earliest civilizations—and build real Japanese reading skill—with a clear, learner-friendly reader crafted for upper beginners. Upper-Beginner Friendly Real history, approachable language, smooth difficulty curve. Line-by-Line Support Japanese text plus vocabulary and grammar notes for each line. Audio via QR Codes Listen to native recordings for shadowing and pronunciation. Anki Flashcards Included Reinforce vocabulary on the go with the downloadable deck. What You’ll Learn Jōmon Culture: Pottery, lifeways, and early spiritual practices that shaped prehistoric Japan. Yayoi Transformation: Rice cultivation, metal tools, and social shifts that set the stage for early statehood. Cultural Evolution: How Jōmon and Yayoi developments influenced later Japanese history and identity. Inside the Book Line-by-Line Reader: Clear Japanese passages with vocabulary and grammar notes. Furigana Support: Read confidently while growing kanji recognition. Full English Translations: Review and confirm comprehension at the end. Audio Access: Scan QR codes to stream or download native recordings. What’s Included Primary reader (digital and/or paperback, depending on option selected) MP3 audio via QR codes Downloadable Anki deck for vocabulary review Vocabulary lists and focused grammar explanations Who It’s For Learners at the upper-beginner to lower-intermediate level who want meaningful reading practice, cultural depth, and guided support to understand every line with confidence. Travel back to ancient Japan—and move your Japanese forward. Add Volume 1 to your library and start reading today. Details Series: Japan’s Jidai (Volume 1) Focus: Jōmon & Yayoi Periods (prehistoric to proto-historic Japan) Level: Upper Beginner / Lower Intermediate Formats: Paperback and Digital (PDF + MP3 + Anki deck) Publisher: Kotoba Books Is the audio included? Yes. You'll receive all the digital files immediately in addition to having the paperback shipped to you. Scan the QR codes inside the book to access native MP3 recordings for listening, shadowing, and review. Do I need to know a lot of kanji? Furigana is provided to support kanji reading. As you gain confidence, try the full-text sections and check the English translations at the end. Is there a flashcard deck? Yes. A downloadable Anki deck is included to reinforce vocabulary from the reader.

Also in: Learn Japanese with Stories — Volume 2 Bundle 🎧 Audio Sample — “Bunbuku Tea-Kettle” (Normal Speed) Your browser does not support the audio element. 📖 PDF Sample Preview Jump to Preview Open in New Tab Upper Beginner → Intermediate Learn Japanese with Stories 20 — Bunbuku Tea-Kettle（ぶんぶく茶釜ちゃがま） Paperback (5.5″ × 8.5″)  |  Digital files included (MP3s & Anki) Physical paperback ships to you. Digital downloads available immediately after purchase. MP3: slow & normal Anki deck Furigana supported Pitch-accent in deck QR codes for audio Grammar notes About This Story The classic folktale ぶんぶく茶釜（ちゃがま） features a shape-shifting tanuki who disguises itself as a tea kettle, performing delightful tricks and ultimately bringing fortune to a kind junk dealer. Morinji Temple in Tatebayashi, Gunma, preserves a version of this legend—celebrating a kettle said to pour endless tea. What You Get Short, confidence-building segments with clear explanations Two audio recordings per story: slow and normal speed Furigana for kanji (Japanese-only section has no furigana for practice) Anki deck covering most vocabulary (many with audio & pitch-accent) QR codes for instant audio playback on phone Three ways to read: GLOSS: Line-by-line running gloss with grammar notes JAPANESE ONLY: Full story without interruptions ENGLISH SUMMARY: A simple, mostly literal translation to check understanding

Akutagawa’s トロッコ — The Trolley Cart (Japanese Reader) DISCOVERING AKUTAGAWA’S トロッコ — A literature-first reader for intermediate students of Japanese, with furigana/no-furigana versions and sentence-by-sentence breakdowns. Level: Intermediate • Pages: 135 • ISBN: 9798306992075 Furigana & No-Furigana Line-by-line vocab & grammar Literal English translation Audio via QR codes Anki + eBook downloads Included digital files: The paperback purchase also includes the digital files (PDF + ePub + MP3s) at no extra charge. Scan the in-book QR codes to hear native audio instantly. What’s inside Made for reading real literature—without getting lost Versions with and without furigana: Build confidence, then test yourself. Sentence-by-sentence breakdowns: Vocabulary, grammar, and cultural notes for every sentence. Literal English translation: Track meaning while appreciating Akutagawa’s prose. Audio through QR codes: Native read-aloud for immersive practice (no app install required). Study materials included: Downloadable Anki decks and eBooks (PDF/ePub), plus audio—no extra cost. About the story Childhood wonder and self-discovery トロッコ follows Ryōhei, a boy fascinated by the handcars used in railway construction. What begins as a thrilling adventure becomes a poignant realization of his own limits—told in clear yet evocative prose that rewards close reading. Why this reader Bridge classic literature and language growth Carefully graded scaffolding—furigana, granular notes, and literal translation—lets you enjoy Akutagawa’s craft while steadily improving your kanji, syntax awareness, and reading stamina. Preview Read a sample right here Tip: Use the toolbar to zoom and navigate. Or open the PDF in a new tab. Ready to read? Uncover the story—master the language Whether you’re exploring Akutagawa’s themes or polishing your kanji and parsing skills, this reader gives you everything you need to grow with authentic literature. Get the Paperback Open Sample PDF

Unpacking Japanese Words Reading Mackerel and Other Curious Japanese Sayings By Clay & Yumi Boutwell Exploring Japanese word origins for learners of Japanese — Volume 1 “Wait—did you say reading mackerel?!” Yup. Welcome to the wild world of Japanese word origins. Each entry begins with the most likely etymology in Japanese, followed by the English explanation and a complete vocabulary breakdown—so you practice reading real Japanese before peeking at the English. Upper beginner to intermediate Etymology & culture Line-by-line vocab Example sentences Audio included Included digital files: The paperback purchase also includes the digital files (PDF + ePub + MP3s) at no extra charge. Save with digital: This title is also part of our discounted Vocabulary Bundle. View Vocabulary Bundle What you’ll learn Make words stick with stories Dozens of everyday (and delightfully odd) idioms, sayings, and words. Cultural and historical backstories that make phrases memorable. Line-by-line vocabulary with context and grammar notes. Example sentences for real-world usage. Audio recordings of all Japanese content—great for shadowing. Who it’s for Curious learners & word nerds Upper beginners through intermediate students. Fans of etymology, history, and language “aha!” moments. Teachers looking for bite-sized lesson content. Anyone who has ever yelled 「もしもし」 into the void. How it works Japanese first, then English Start with the Japanese etymology, use the vocabulary notes to work through it, and only then peek at the English. This keeps the reading practice front and center while giving you the story behind the words. Listen Audio samples from the book Explanation Sample: Example Sentence: Preview Read a sample right here Tip: Use the toolbar to zoom and navigate. Or open the PDF in a new tab. Ready to dive in? Unpack the stories behind Japanese words With etymology, culture notes, line-by-line vocabulary, examples, and audio, this book turns “why is it said that way?” into “oh—that makes sense now.” 153 Pages - 9798319034519 Get the Paperback See the Digital Bundle Open Sample PDF

  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 for the bundle with this book in it. Digital products have no shipping charges! 155 pages | Paperback | Includes FREE MP3s and eBook formats and Anki flashcard deck Learn Japanese through Haiku: Yosa Buson Build real Japanese skills while enjoying 25 carefully curated haiku by Yosa Buson. Each poem comes with bilingual commentary, vocabulary, and high-quality audio so you can read, listen, and truly understand. 25 Buson haiku MP3 audio included PDF + ePub + Anki Bilingual notes Beginner to intermediate Makoto+ Explorer coming soon What you will get A complete read + listen learning kit 25 classic haiku by Yosa Buson with Japanese text and English renderings. Short commentary that explains grammar, word choice, and cultural cues. Curated vocabulary lists with context so the words stick. Professional audio: natural Japanese reading plus guided commentary. Digital bundle: PDF, ePub, and Anki deck to keep learning anywhere. Listen Sample audio from the book Haiku reading and short commentary. Haiku reading: Commentary audio: Preview Read a page right here Tip: Click the toolbar icons to zoom and navigate. Or open the PDF in a new tab. Who it is for Haiku lovers and learners If you love Japanese culture and want to improve your reading, vocabulary, and listening, this book is for you. Perfect for self-learners and classroom use alike. Coming soon Makoto+ Explorer integration Read these haiku inside our Explorer with tap-to-reveal hints, synced audio, and instant lookups. Free update included with your purchase.

OUR NEWEST DIGITAL BUNDLE For Beginners to Intermediates 5 eBooks covering distinct Japanese historical eras, each accompanied by PDFs, ePubs, MP3s (slow and normal speeds), and Anki flashcard decks. Learning Japanese isn’t just about memorizing vocabulary and mastering grammar—it’s about stepping into the rich, vibrant world of Japanese history and culture. What better way to do that than by exploring the fascinating eras that shaped Japan? From ancient pottery and peaceful villages of the Jomon period to the elegant poetry and political intrigue of the Heian period, each era tells a story. In this new series, you’ll dive deep into these historical worlds through engaging essays written in authentic Japanese, designed to improve your language skills while bringing history to life.    Want a sample?  Sure! Here is an example page and the normal and slow speed audio for that page. Normal Speed Audio Your browser does not support the audio element. Slow Speed Audio Your browser does not support the audio element.   Bulk Discount - Remember, buy more to save more. Add two bundles to your cart and get an automatic 5% off your entire digital order; Buy three, get 10% off; Buy five or more and get a whopping 20% off your entire digital order! No coupon is needed! ➡️ How to read the eBooks in your bundle? You may need to follow the steps outlined in our eBook guide P.S. All our bundles have: ✅ Multiple formats (PDF, ePub, MP3s, plus many have Anki flashcard decks)✅ One-time payment✅ Discounted compared to buying individually on Amazon✅ Free lifetime updates to this bundle✅ Instant download gratification✅ [Satisfaction Guaranteed] - Seriously, if you aren't happy with it because it's too easy or difficult, just let us know and we'll swap it with a bundle better suited for you or we'll refund your money. WHAT'S INCLUDED? Some of these essays were first published in our Makoto Magazine (click here to learn about becoming a Makoto member), but we have greatly edited and expanded those essays.  More books coming soon! Purchase the bundle now before the price increase and get future updates for no additional charge! This is a bundle of eBooks in digital format. Download instantly and begin improving your Japanese reading skills (PDFs), listening abilities (sound files - slow and normal speed), and vocabulary (Anki flashcard decks). Use the Anki flashcard decks to quickly learn vocabulary. An amazing value! WHO IS THIS FOR? This bundle is recommended for upper beginners to intermediate students of Japanese. If you are just starting out, no problem! We have a bundle just for you. Click here to learn about our Beri- Beri- Shoshinsha Beginner's Bundle. ---  Each volume sells on Amazon and elsewhere for $4.99. But remember, you will get lifetime updates including new eBooks in the series and supplementary material. THE ESSAYS: Volume 1: Joumon Period & Yayoi Period Volume 2: Kofun Period & Asuka Period Volume 3: Nara Period & Heian Volume 4: Kamakura & Muromachi Volume 5: Sengoku & Edo   Volume 6: Taisho and Showa COMING SOON BENEFITS: Each essay includes two sound files. One read slowly and one read at normal speed Use the QR code so you can scan to instantly hear the sound file streamed to you on demand! An easy and fun way to introduce yourself to important Japanese eras while also improving your vocabulary, grammar, and kanji. Best for upper beginners, however even beginners who have a solid knowledge of hiragana and basic grammar can enjoy this bundle. (Don’t know hiragana yet?! No problem. See our Beri- Beri- Shoshinsha digital bundle here.) Every single line and every word are explained and defined. Designed specifically for upper beginners to intermediates. Build your Japanese vocabulary, understand new grammatical patterns, improve your reading skills, and hone in your listening abilities Each essay includes two MP3s recorded by a native Japanese voice actress. Print out the PDFs and drop the MP3s on your phone for on the go studying. Anki decks - Use the provided Anki flashcard decks to help you learn the vocabulary found in the stories. These decks are included free of charge. These books sell individually for $4.99. Get them all together for a single low price AND get future volumes for no extra charge! Ready to learn Japanese while uncovering the secrets of Japan’s past? Let’s travel through time, one sentence at a time.   Reminder: This is the digital versions of the books. There will be NO shipping charges since... nothing will be shipped :) Please note: you will receive a Dropbox link which can be accessed from any device (phone, tablet, or computer) instantly. If you are on a computer, you can download it all by clicking on the Download button at the top right. NOTE: Print Versions are Available! (Not included in this digital-only bundle) Click here for the print versions - Clay and Yumi's Paperbacks If you choose a digital version, you'll instantly get the download links in a minute after purchasing. The print versions also come with the digital files. You do not need to have a Dropbox account or pay anything further to access or download the files. You will be able to instantly download all files on a PC or Mac (computer or laptop) and/or access any individual file on any of your mobile devices. Learn more here. If you don't see the email after the order, please check your spam folder or email us for support. These books are available on Amazon.

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 for the bundle with this book in it. Digital products have no shipping charges! 121 pages | Paperback | Includes FREE Sound Files and eBook formats and Anki Flashcard Deck Learn Japanese through Haiku: Kobayashi Issa Read real Japanese today while enjoying 25 hand-picked haiku by 小林一茶 (Kobayashi Issa, 1763–1828). Issa’s poems are warm, humane, and unexpectedly funny, focusing on small creatures and everyday life. This edition gives you clear bilingual guidance, carefully curated vocabulary, and high-quality audio so you can read, listen, and truly understand. 25 Issa haiku MP3 audio included PDF + ePub + Anki Bilingual commentary Beginner to intermediate Makoto+ Explorer coming soon What you will get A complete read + listen learning kit 25 classic haiku presented in Japanese with natural English renderings. Short, insightful commentary that explains grammar, word choice, and cultural cues. Curated vocabulary lists with context so the words stick. Professional audio: a clear poem reading plus guided commentary for each selection. Digital bundle: printable PDF, ePub for e-readers, and an Anki deck for spaced review. QR codes inside for instant audio access; downloadable files included with your purchase. Coming soon: Makoto+ Japanese Explorer integration for inline furigana, audio, and fast lookups. Listen Sample audio from the book Below: a poem reading and a short commentary. Haiku reading: Your browser does not support the audio element. Commentary audio: Your browser does not support the audio element. Recorded in clear, standard Japanese. Great for shadowing and rhythm practice. Preview Read a page right here Tip: Use the toolbar to zoom and navigate. If the embed does not load, open the sample PDF. How to use it Read. Listen. Absorb. Review. Listen to the haiku once without reading to catch the flow and pitch. Read the Japanese with notes, then replay the audio and shadow the lines. Reinforce with the Anki deck and revisit a few poems during the week. Who it is for Haiku lovers and Japanese learners If you love Japanese culture and want steady gains in reading, vocabulary, and listening, this book is for you. Ideal for self-learners, classrooms, and anyone who prefers meaningful, bite-size practice that fits into a busy day. About Issa A poet of empathy and wit Kobayashi Issa wrote with warmth and humor about ordinary life, often giving voice to small creatures. His poems balance tenderness and irony, making them perfect gateways for learners to experience real Japanese with cultural depth. Listen now Preview a page

NOTE: The digital version is found in the digital only Beri- Beri- Shoshinsha bundle.  Have you only recently learned hiragana but need practice? Or perhaps, your hiragana is no problem, but you want to build your hiragana and kanji reading comprehension? This new collection of stories is here to the rescue! Read real Japanese—beginner level but not boring Japanese! You won't find the Japanese version of Dick and Jane, but you will find stories written for adults. Enjoy reading flash fiction, super short essays, and funny stories of common mistakes made by learners of Japanese.Best of all, the only requirement is that you can read hiragana and have a very basic understanding of Japanese. Vocabulary and grammar will be defined and explained.     In this volume: STORY 1 SETSUBUN STORY 2 HINAMATSURI STORY 3 JAPANESE SCHOOLS  STORY 4 CHILDREN'S DAY STORY 5 SHIKKE STORY 6 OPENING THE BEACHES STORY 7 SIGNAGE STORY 8 TOMOKOROSHI  STORY 9 KANNAZUKI STORY 10 KOHARUBIYORI The format is a little different from our other more advanced readers. The idea is for the reader to read the entire story three times. Each page will have a sentence or two in hiragana (with spaces between words for you to see “words” instead of syllables) at the top and that same content in full Japanese (with furigana—small hiragana over kanji) at the bottom. The middle will have the glossary and grammatical explanations. Lastly, the story is presented in Japanese without furigana. See if you can read it after going through the previous two versions and explanations. If you have just learned hiragana, you may want to listen to the sound file while reading the hiragana section to practice correct pronunciation. If you have studied Japanese a bit longer, you may want to start with the bottom version and take note of the glossary for understanding.The glossary will have the word as it appears in the story, but it will also give the “dictionary” form so you can look the word up further. Having fun while learning a language is a great way to increase motivation. With increased motivation, you are less likely to skip a day's study. A skipped day can quickly become a lost week and then a lost… forever. And so, we hope you will have as much fun reading these stories as we had writing them. This is a physical paperback which will be shipped to you. You'll also receive the digital files for no extra charge immediately after ordering.