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.

Excellent story

I started reading this story I'm fascinated by Japanese culture and I saw the movie as well. I will going to japan in the near future

Trust me..

An absolute amazing tale, which any reader can connect too and feel like you’re in the feudal Era. Though my BIGGEST DREAD came from the Forward, after almost returning this book bcuz of it, I seen MANY reviews saying to pay no attention to it and to just skip it.. Well let me tell you, IF YOU WANT TO ENJOY THIS BOOK, SKIP THE “FORWARD”. It’s so contradicting, and sounds like a 21st century Westerner is trying to find peace and understanding in Politics from back then.. which is a miserable fail. So AMAZING story and listen. But leave the TERRIBLE Forward out of it, you’ll be happy you did.

Don't Watch the Movie - Listen to This

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Far better than the movie which is based mostly on fantasy with just a few historical details. I have to confess my ignorance and say that I had never heard the story of the 47 Ronin. The ancient Japanese culture and the plot of the story made it a great read. You may or may not agree with the actions of the Ronin, or understand their culture, but there is a definite lesson in the historical story concerning honor and duty.

What was one of the most memorable moments of 47 Ronin?

I do not want to create a spoiler, so I will just say that at the end of the story there is a tremendous display of duty. I do not fully understand the Japanese mindset of that day. However, that did not diminish the amazing sense of duty displayed by the Ronin in the end.

What aspect of David Shih’s performance would you have changed?

He is at times a little hard to understand - or at least he was for me.

Any additional comments?

Don't waste your time on the movie - listen to the book.

Good performance of a classic story

Well done, fast paced adventure. But skip the introduction by Stephen Turnbull, a modernist seeking to apply 21st century political correctness to feudal Japan.

Strong narration.