Synopses & Reviews
Teenaged Seikei dreams of being one of Japan's legendary warriors, a samurai-but samurai are born, not made, and Seikei is a tea merchant's son. Then a ruby intended for the shogun is stolen. Seikei is the only witness, and the famous samurai magistrate, Judge Ooka, needs his help. Soon they are hot on the trail of the ruby-and an unforgettable adventure.
"An unusual and satisfying mystery that will be enjoyed by a wide audience."
-School Library Journal, starred review
"Employs suspense, action, superstition, and mystery to entrance readers with this tale of 18th-century Japan and a boy's search for honor...This is a remarkable novel."
-Kirkus Reviews, pointer review
Synopsis
A priceless ruby has been stolen and an innocent family framed for the crime. Can Seikei prove himself a worthy samurai by uncovering the real thief?- Nominated for the Edgar Allen Poe Award for Best Young-Adult Mystery- Named to five State Award Lists- An ALA Best Book for Young Adults- An IRA/CBC Young Adult Choice- "Parent's Choice Silver Medal recipient- A "Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books Blue Ribbon selection