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

"Here she is!" The scullery maid called as Noriko pushed at the noren curtains identifying the kitchen door.


"She's here!" The newest and smallest housemaid reached out to take the tray, her childlike hands quivering with happiness.


"Congratulations, my dear," Cook said with a smile. "You look happy."


"I am. Surprised, though. It's all happened so fast! Thank you so very much for the Third-Day cakes." Noriko bowed to the older woman.


"How could I let this occasion go unnoticed?" Cook set aside her spoon and wrapped Noriko in a warm embrace. She thought it would surprise Noriko to find out how much they all liked her; she was so reserved she resisted intimacy. She'd be missed. "I suppose you will be leaving us?"


"I will," Noriko replied, smiling. "I am not sure exactly when."


"Toyoda-san's coming today!" Masa, the Inn's porter and errand boy, dashed into the kitchen bearing a note.


Chapter 117