The Samurai's Tale (1984 original; edició 1990)

I enjoyed this novel set in turbulent sixteenth century Japan. The hero's family is murdered and he is taken as a servant. He goes from being a simple servant boy to a smurai.

In turbulent 16th century Japan, orphaned Taro is taken in by a general serving the great warlord, Takeda Shingen. Taro grows up to be a samurai fighting for the enemies of his dead family.

This is the story of a samurai. (duh!) Or more specificaly, the story of a boy who grows up to be a samurai. It starts on the day he is orphaned. His father has been killed in battle and the folks he has been fighting against are headed to his home. His wife and two eldest sons are killed, but the youngest son is given to one of the conquering soldiers who gives the child the name "Taro". What follows is the story of Taro's childhood as he advances in the soldier's household, gaining in responsibility and importance. 'Tis an interesting tale with good characters. It isn't so strongly Japanese that it seems an alien book, but it does have enough of a flavor to keep the reader mindful that they're not reading Ivanhoe with katanas. As you might guess, it's a book I'd suggest you check out.
--J. ( )