Basic Information • Author: Saneatsu Mushanokoji • Publisher: Kodansha (Shonen Kodansha Bunko B-14) • First Edition Published: June 28, 1974, 1st printing • Cover Design: Masao Iwamoto • Yellowing and discoloration due to aging (see photos) ⸻ Excerpts from the Table of Contents (Composed of 3 chapters) 1. The Tale of the Clever Little Monk Childhood episodes such as the birth of Senkikumaru, the separation of mother and child, and the farewell of the teacup. 2. The Tale of the Crazy Monk Ikkyu and the Shogun, Ikkyu frozen, his appearance as a mad monk. 3. The Tale of Zen Master Ikkyu Teachings as a Zen monk, acceptance of death, words of his will, etc. ⸻ Content and Appeal • Fusion of Zen and Humor: Ikkyu's "clever stories" are a crystallization of religious wisdom and humanistic humor. • As an introduction to Buddhist thought: The ideas of the Rinzai sect and the Buddhist view of life are told in easy-to-understand language. • Storytelling and Educational Value: While structured to be enjoyable for children, it is also rich in meaning for adults. • Charm of Showa Era Paperback: You can enjoy the texture of the paper, illustrations, and editing atmosphere, etc., the valuable feel of a Showa era paperback book, which is rare today. ⸻ Background and Relationship with Buddhism • Ikkyu Sojun (1394–1481): Known as a mad Zen monk, he was a high priest of the Rinzai sect, popular with the common people for his unconventional behavior and clever stories. • Saneatsu Mushanokoji (1885–1976): A representative writer of the Shirakaba school, this work, which depicts Buddhism from a humanitarian perspective, reflects his idealistic spirit. • Value as Buddhist Children's Literature: While containing religious lessons, it also has a high degree of completeness as a story, and was widely read in homes as part of post-war education. ⸻ Condition There are stains and yellowing on the text. It has the feel of an old book from the 1970s, but the binding is generally firm and does not interfere with reading. Recommended for those who enjoy the condition of an old book. ⸻ For those interested in Buddhism, Zen, Ikkyu, Showa era paperbacks, and educational literature. This is a book that is being re-evaluated as a collection of clever stories to be read at home, or as an introductory book to thought.