I first read this years ago when I found it in three small, delightful books. Great story about feudal Japan. Throw in various clans, tribes, Lords, Japanese manners, and fantastical powers. Add flames of pure inventiveness and you have this and the volumes that follow.

This book was first recommended to me in 1985. I immediately read it. Just a few days ago it waved at me from the bookshelf. This is the same copy I first read over 30 years ago. The book? Still as good as it was when I first read it.