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

"Noriko-san! Good morning! Please come in and have some tea!" Sachiko was up and dressed for the day despite her late night, but Noriko could see she had not yet swept the steps, part of every household's daily chores, usually done first thing.


"I can't stay long," she said, "so please don't trouble yourself. I have news!"


"Come in, come in." Sachiko stepped aside and motioned Noriko to a small reception room. Her house was large and housed not only herself but also several other women displaced by current events who either worked as adjuncts to the Floating World of entertainment or sought employment there or elsewhere. She settled Noriko on a cushion and pushed the kettle over the traditional fire pit after building up the charcoal fire. Noriko watched with growing excitement as her friend prepared a pot with tea, ready to receive the water when it boiled.


"Sachiko-san." Noriko could contain herself no longer. "I am married!"


Chapter 121