ERICA HESKETH is a poet and editor, originally from Japan and Denmark and now based in London. As a poet she experiments with form and voice, including traditional forms from Japan. Widely published in magazines and journals, she was longlisted for the 2024 National Poetry Competition. Her poetry has been commissioned by the Royal Festival Hall, Spread the Word and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. From 2016 to 2024 she was the Director of the Poetry Translation Centre. She is the author of In the Lily Room (poetry), and editor of Living in Language: International reflections for the practising poet (essays). LAURA SAMPSON is a British-Caribbean storyteller, noh practitioner and writer based in London. She has practised noh (a 700-year-old Japanese theatre form) since 2011 and performs with Theatre Nohgaku in the UK and internationally. Her unique storytelling style incorporates elements of noh. She has worked with the Young V&A, the National Trust, Conductive Music CIC, and leading UK storytelling organisations the Crick Crack Club and Story Jam. Her first story collection, Enchanted Tales (Templar Books), was published in October 2023 with a second, Mythical Tales, due in Autumn 2025. Laura also holds an MA in Japanese Studies from SOAS.

‘In Moon Snow Blossom, Erica and Laura have offered readers a warm, hand-held introduction to the beguiling world of Japanese folk tales. Filled with intriguing stories and helpful commentaries, this collection will delight anyone who loves stories and exploring other cultures through folk narratives.’ Angharad Wynne, author of Wild Women ‘This mesmerising book occupies a mythical landscape of strange and beautiful happenings: a man falls in love with a woman made of ice, the kindness of hospitality is richly rewarded, a demon comes disguised as a tricksy old woman, emperors are the direct descendants of gods, enchanted mirrors reflect grief, hope and love, untrustworthy cats are born from ashes, robes are woven from spider webs, and seductive shape-shifting foxes have nine tails. Written with great skill and tenderness, full of heart-gladdening poetry and epic adventures.’ Bernadette Russell, author of Conversations on Kindness ‘Elegantly written with beautiful illustrations, Hesketh and Sampson’s compelling collection offers a fresh take on traditional Japanese folktales. Each of these atmospheric stories could be accommodated within the time of a typical commute or a short break, providing some magic and wonder to the reader’s day.’ Emily Midorikawa, author of A Tiny Speck of Black and then Nothing ‘Moon Snow Blossom tells the old stories with dedication and a wry smile. A beautiful addition to any bookshelf.’ Rowan Hisayo Buchanan, author of Harmless Like You ‘A captivating read. It was a delight to dive into Japanese landscape, history and traditions with such a vivid array of characters. Erica and Laura are masterful storytellers who have brought Japanese folktales and poetry to life.’ Wendy Shearer ‘Beautifully told, evocative tales that capture the wonder of winter and bring Japanese folklore to life with care and respect.’ Dee Dee Chainey, author of A Treasury of British Folklore ‘Hesketh and Sampson’s sumptuous folk tales are full of wit, wisdom and 気 – life energy. These beautifully crafted wintry tales will make you shiver, ponder, and belly laugh, and will enrich your understanding of humanity. Essential bedtime reading.’ Alexandra Corrin-Tachibana, author of Skinship