The Mask Carver's Son

By: Alyson Richman

Narrated by: John Lee

1890. Yamamoto Kiyoki is a Japanese art student, dreaming of studying in Paris with the inspiring and vibrant Impressionist painters.

Yamamoto Ryusei is Kiyoki's father. Ryusei's art, carving intricate masks for traditional Japanese theater, has been his refuge from loneliness since the death of his beloved wife, and he is revered as the most inspired artist of his kind. He expects his only son to honor the traditions of his family and his country, not to be seduced by Western ideas of what is beautiful. Ryusei hopes Kiyoki will follow his own distinguished career, creating masks that will become the family's crowning achievement.

But what is a father to do when his son's path is not what he had planned? And how can a son honor his father, and yet fulfill his own destiny?

©2013 Alyson Richman (P)2013 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Ms. Richman is a very special talent." (Kristin Hannah, New York Times best-selling author)

GOOD

I am surprised that there are no reviews of this really good book.
It is a relatively short book for so much entertaining information.
Describing life in old Japan, also the artist community in Paris.
There are very touching moments.
The narrator, mr. John Lee, as usual did an excellent job. He is the right voice for this book.
My thanks to all involved, JK.