BOOK REVIEW: Shadow Warrior by Tanya Lloyd Kyi

BOOK REVIEW: Shadow Warrior by Tanya Lloyd Kyi

Annick Press/New South Books
Softcover, picture book

Reviewed by Shane Pinnegar
9/10

Chiyome is a determined woman whose dream of becoming a ninja is initially thwarted when she is forced to marry a warlord’s nephew in 16th century Japan. As events unfold Chiyome realises her dream, eventually running a ninja school and elaborate network of hundreds of female spies.

Tanya Lloyd Kyi tells the true story of Mochizuki Chiyome with a precious grace befitting the delicate balance of poise and action required for such an esteemed position as ninja.

Full of wonderful paintings both new and old (some date to the early 1900s), this book is quite beautiful, and Chiyome’s story is an empowering one of success and drive and, ultimately, freedom.

As we battle tirelessly to provide a world where women can be seen by all as just as capable (or more so) than men, this is exactly the sort of book I want my daughter reading and feeling inspired by.

Category: Book Reviews