Kojiki : the birth of Japan
(Book)

Trade version of Kazumi Wilds' artist book "Kojiki : the story of ancient Japan : written by Ono Yasumato in 712 C.E."

Author's note: "The Kojiki, completed in 712 C.E., is Japan's oldest surviving written work. It was produced in three volumes that cover the mythology and establishment of the nation of Japan. These volumes are divided loosely corresponding to myth, legend, and actual historical events. The Kojiki is not only an invaluable historical source and entertaining compilation of Japanese mythology, it is also the cornerstone of the Japanese indigenous Shinto religion, its gods and rituals. The stories are spectacular, exotic, mysterious, and sometimes even comical. I focused on producing an artist's book about the beginning of the story, the creation myth. ... This artist's book was completed at the University of Iowa Center for the Book in April 2018." --Page preceding colophon page.

"Published by Tuttle Publishing, an imprint of Periplus Editions (HK) Ltd. ... Printed in Hong Kong." --Colophon.

In the beginning there was nothing - a void. Then the ancient gods and goddesses breathed life into lumps of clay and a great nation rose before them. So begins the Japanese creation myth, as recorded centuries ago in the Kojiki. It's an origin story unlike any other, retold for the first time by prize-winning artist Kazumi Wilds. Combing the raucous rhythms and gripping imagery of a graphic novel with the classic patterns of anorigin sstory - myth, magic, and monsters take centre stage in this bold reworking of a classic tale.

Special Collections copy,Gift;,Kazumi Wilds;,2019.,IaU

Bound in illustrated paper covered boards. Issued with illustrated dust jacket. Illustrated end papers.