Most of you know of the highest-grossing anime film of all time, Princess Mononoke, and if you don't, stop reading this and go watch this movie! From the masterful Hayao Miyazaki (Nausicaa, Spirited Away) comes a story of ancient Japanese folklore and environmental conservation. While nature plays a large role in all of Miyazaki's films, this one feels the most grounded in its realistic majesty. It initially starts off as a warrior's tale, but quickly transforms into a fight for the harmony of mankind and its connection to and stewardship of the planet. Princess Mononoke: The First Story for the first time gives English-speaking readers a behind-the-scenes look at this monumental film. While The First Story feels more like an alternate reality, it was the original catalyst for the film. If you've seen the film, it's mind-blowing to see this kids'-book version, and if you haven't, it's just a great kids' book!
