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

"I wanted to let you know that the girls are settling in splendidly," Noriko read aloud. "I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your husband's generous financial support for them. There is no occasion to panic on their behalf. Right now, I have employed a teacher so they can learn to read and write. I am also searching for jobs for them, although that is difficult in Tokyo."


"Excellent idea, teaching them to read and write. Literacy is" 


"I know, and I agree how important it is!" Noriko laughingly interrupted what promised to become one of Yuta's regular lectures on this particular subject. "But we still don't have jobs for them."


"That will come," Yuta said, with a smile and a shake of his head. "And they'll be better for it, if they are literate! At least for now they are taken care of and safe."


Chapter 168