How to be a Samurai Warrior

by Fiona MacDonald

2007

Description

"How would you like to join a fearsome fighting force and serve as a Samurai? Your main duties will include: leaving your home to fight if your daimyo summons you - following "the way of the warrior" (rules of Samurai behavior) - studying ancient wisdom, writing poetry, and admiring art. Apply in writing to your local daimyo or to the shogun's court. Imagine that you are living in ancient Japan. Samurai warriors are among the most respected people in your society-that is what you want to be! How do you become a Samurai? Do you have what it takes? The reader will learn exactly what the requirements for being a Samurai are. What kind of families do warriors come from? What sort of training do they get? The Samurai developed a tradition of values and personal conduct. They valued horsemanship, skill with the bow, strong self-discipline, and bravery. Above all, they prized total obedience and loyalty to their lords, and personal honor. If the Samurai were dishonored, they would consider it a duty to commit ritual suicide. You'll want to know what sort of weapons you'll need. Samurai sleep with their swords! And you'll be required to provide your own armor. What sort of campaigns will you fight in? Where will you live? How will you be paid? How will you advance in rank? Will you be married? All of your questions will be answered to prepare you for the job interview section at the end of the book-a clever way to test if you are ready to become a Samurai!"--From source other than the Library of Congress… (more)

Library's review

Fiona MacDonald studied history at Cambridge University and at the University of East Anglia. She has taught in high schools and universities; she is the author of numerous books for children on historical topics.

John James was born in London in 1959. He studied at Eastbourne College of Art and has
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specialized in istorical reconstruction since leaving school in 1982. He now lives in Sussex.

Contents

What you should know
Are you from a samurai family?
What will you learn?
Can you use deadly weapons?
Can you afford armor?
Do you have the right attitude?
Will you be loyal?
Could you survive on campaign?
Will you live in a castle?
Will you be part of a siege?
Would you visit a town?
Do you want the top job?
What does the future hold?
Your interview
Glossary
Index
Further reading (bibliography)
Have you got the job?
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User reviews

LibraryThing member Abrahamray
Great children’s book about samurai from ancient Japan!

Series

ISBN

9781426301353

Publication

National Geographic Washington, DC
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