Genpei

Here's the scoop: Imagine the Heike Monogatari, subtly and elegantly morphed into a mythological novel, but told in the style of the Heike Monogatari. That last point is the really surprising, interesting, and challenging thing about this book. It does indeed read like an old historic tale. The fantasy elements are toned down and are deftly woven into the narrative, which builds slowly and inexorably to its tragic climax. At the same time, the narrative is ever so gently shifted towards Western novel sensibilities: less historical digression here, a longer dialogue there, a touch of characterization that wasn't there before. It's a delicate and amazing high-wire act, resulting in a novel that is elegant, haunting, and which captures much if not all of the lyricism of the original Heike Monogatari. And unlike many historical fantasies I've read, this one doesn't at all stretch the bounds of credibility established by its source material. I suppose a comparison to Liam Hearn's Otori books (e.g. Across the Nightingale Floor) is inevitable. They are contemporary works, after all, and both are similar in trying to capture Japanese culture and sensibility in their work. From there, though, it's a radical departure: Hearn's story is in a completely reimagined world with an approach that's much closer to a Western fantasy; Dalkey remains much closer to her source material in all respects. Hearn's books have ninjas, Dalkey's has pirates (sort of). You get the idea. I can see how Genpei's toned-down and historical approach could well be off-putting to some, but I found Genpei to be an absolutely unique and wonderful book, and it really stirred up my interest in the Heian period of Japan. If you enjoy reading ancient literature, and like literate fantasy, I think Genpei is definitely worth a look. If you'll indulge me, I also recommend the episode "Hoichi the Earless" from the classic movie Kwaidan as an excellent companion piece to the book.

This is one of the finest fantasy novels I've read (and I've read a lot even by fantasy nerd standards). Dalkey has done a beautiful job of fleshing out the characters of Heike Monogatari and and gives the impression that this is what the Genpei wars would have been like if scientific reality were replaced by the superstitions and beleifs of 12th century Japan. This is one of those books that will keep you thinking and dreaming long after you've set it down. As far as being a history, it is not advertised as a history. The Tale of the Heike on which it is based is probably accurate in the vague sense that any ancient text written after the fact is valid. But this story DOES help the modern reader to understand the basic events of the Genpei war and is a decent historical fiction in that sense, if imbued with elements of fantasy. Don't read it if you're looking for non-fiction, but you'll be hard pressed to find a more engaging and beautifully written fantasy.

As a student of Japanese history, I found that learning of this time era in class extemely dull and confusing, but Dalkey is able to tell the same story adding in all the myth of ancient Japan makeing the story of the Gempei wars much more entertaining. The voice of the book was also well done, reminding me of the Tale of Genji, it made me feel like I was reading a true tale of that time without all the confusion that comes with translating ancient texts. Of course if you're not the least bit interested in Japanese history this book is not for you.

Genpei is one of the best books I have read in a long time. It is a mix of fantasy and Japanese History. Kara Dalkey has written a great novel of the 12th century Japanese Genpei Wars.The Genpei war was a civil war in Japan between the powerful Taira and Minomoto clans for control of the country. The winner of this war would found the first shogunate in Japanese history.Anyone who enjoys historical fiction or James Clavell type stuff will love this book. I especially enjoyed how the Japanese Shinto Kami spirits took life in this book giving it the fantasy angle.What a great novel. This is well worth the time and the money. This book is a must buy.

Those who've read Dalkey's Blood of the Goddess trilogy know what she's about. An awesome blend of legend, history, and fantasy meld together in this book for a great read. So, if you haven't read any of Dalkey's works, start now. Genpei is an excellent start!