Claire Youmans first went to Japan in 1992 and was immediately captivated.  After years of travel and study, she continues to be charmed and amazed by a fascinating history and a culture that's both endearingly quirky and entirely unique. She is a retired lawyer who now lives in Tokyo. Her family, including her daughter and two grandsons, live in Seattle, USA.

In 2014, she started Tales of the Meiji Era with The Toki-Girl and the Sparrow-Boy's unparalleled blend of historical fantasy in the first book of the series, Coming Home.  She continues exploring the combination of history and folklore to share her love and fascination with a very different country and culture. 

Exciting adventures continue to unfold in this delightful fantastical yet historical world as social and political changes expand, technology explodes, and two very unusual children grow up.  



The Toki-Girl and the Sparrow-Boy

"Oh, Uncle," Azuki said, flushed with happiness, "that was so wonderful! I want to learn how to make the paper patterns!"


Yuta smiled down at his niece. He'd never seen her so happy, and so whole. "In time, little one. When you are older, perhaps you'll want to find a weaver who will take you as an apprentice, or find one you can work with from home."


They walked slowly down the street towards the inn, taking in the sights, spotting a tiny shrine dedicated to Bodhisattva Jizo, where they paid their respects. They turned there to reach the moneychangers' street.


Chapter 47