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

"Where have you been?" Yuta asked as his niece, late, bowed as she took her place in the dining area of their house.


"I apologize for being late." Uncle was angry and that happened so seldom that Azuki felt a clench in her heart. "I did tell Hanako-san where I was going."


"Eat your dinner now," Yuta said. "You can help Hanako-san clean up and do your Buddhist practice with her afterwards."


With a smile, Hanako-san served Azuki with a bowl of hot miso soup and another of fragrant rice. The older woman realized that Azuki didn't want to explain herself, at least not now, and kept between Azuki and her uncle, while pointing out the steaming hot pot stew and the plate of yakisoba  fried noodles and vegetables  before her, as Hanako removed the lids.


Chapter 155