Shoguns and Samurai

1200 – 1500

In medieval Japan, shoguns ruled on behalf of the Emperor while samurai, bound by Bushido, served as warriors and administrators. The era saw intense battles, including the Mongol invasions, and emphasized loyalty, honor, and duty.

Picture books

A Shogun’s Guide

Fun introduction to life as a shogun

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A Samurai Castle

Description of samurai castles and the lives lived within them

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How to Be a Samurai Warrior

Introduction to life as a samurai warrior, as a “how to” guide

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Chapter books and novels

The Sign of the Chrysanthemum

Novel about a boy searching for his samurai father

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Samurai Rising: The Epic Life of Minamoto Yoshitsune

Compelling narrative about the rise of a famous samurai

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Samurai Wisdom Stories

Collection of Samurai wisdom tales

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Life as a Samurai: An Interactive History Adventure

Choose-your-own-adventure book set in samurai Japan

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Sword of the Samurai: Adventure Stories from Japan

Collection of short stories about samurai life

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Non-fiction books

Samurai

Fun introduction to Samurai life for young readers

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You Wouldn’t Want to Be a Samurai!

Humorous guide to samurai life

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Samurai Science: Armor, Weapons, and Battlefield Strategy

Exploration of the science behind Samurai weaponry and armor

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Himeji Castle: Japan’s Samurai Past

Exploration of a famous samurai castle and its history

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What Life Was Like Among Samurai and Shoguns

Describes the world of the samurai and their historical context, for older readers

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Samurai, Shoguns, and Soldiers: The Rise of the Japanese Military

History of militarism in Japan, for upper grade readers

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