47 Ronin

By: John Allyn Jr., Stephen Turnbull - foreword

Narrated by: David Shih

For those looking for the real story behind the fictionalized movie account of the 47 Ronin story, this is the definitive, fascinating account of this unforgettable tale of a band of samurai who defied the Emperor to avenge the disgrace and death of their master, and faced certain death as a result. It led to one of the bloodiest episodes in Japanese history, and in the process, created a new set of heroes in Japan.

In 1701, young Lord Asano is goaded into attacking a corrupt official at the Japanese Court. Although the wound Asano inflicts is minimal, the Emperor's punishment is harsh: Lord Asano is ordered to commit seppuku, or ritual suicide. His lands are confiscated and his family is dishonored and exiled. His samurai retainers now become ronin, or masterless, and are dispersed.

These ronin are not trusted by their enemies and live under the watchful eyes of spies for months. They appear to adapt to their new circumstances by becoming tradesmen and teachers. But the ronin only seem to accept their fate. They are in fact making careful plans for revenge, biding their time until the moment to strike is right! Their deeds became Japan's most celebrated example of bravery, cunning, and loyalty in an age when samurai were heroes, and honor was worth dying for.

John Allyn's masterful retelling of 47 Ronin has long been considered the definitive version of these dramatic historical events.

©2012 Original material, Charles E. Tuttle Publishing Company, Inc. Recorded by arrangement with Tuttle Publishing. (P)2013 HighBridge Company

Critic reviews

"Narrator David Shih expertly brings to life this ancient Japanese tale, based on real-life events. Through Shih's interpretation, the listener can hear the determination and even the occasional misgivings of the characters as they plot their revenge. Shih's performance of the noble warriors is flawless, as is his depiction of the women who work in the pleasure houses, but long for more." (AudioFile Magazine)

Very Interesting take on a true event

The history is true, the events actually happened in the manner described in the story, perhaps even the dialog is accurate because the group of Ronin were kept in royal custody for awhile and were greatly admired. It wouldn't be too much of a stretch to think that they told their story while alive.

Entertaining historical story on the Samurai codes of conduct and the actions of a highly honored group, plus, not terribly gory in descriptions.

Ignore the forward

The dark forward is a bit of twisting of the facts and, despite how it is portrayed, is not terribly accurate in the context of the culture of the time. Having said that the main tale is exactly the story of honor, duty, and the epic tale that comes from it that you expect. Skip the forward and you'll love this.

Good Audible, good story.

The voice acting and reading is top notch, the story is a classic and worth hearing. It’s heavier on politics than action, but the narrators ability to act out each character will pull you in and help you get through some of the slow dialogue.

interesting look into the culture of Japan

I found this book to be an interesting look into the culture of Japan's past.

Timeless

This remains a great tale I've read again and again since my early teens. I have gifted copies to my son and grandson. the audio book did not disappoint.