Beyond the Werefox Whistle
Written by Uehashi Nahoko
Illustrated by Yumiko Shirai
Author's Afterword
The image of Nobi running through the fields with his flame-colored fur shining in the sun was what came to me first. I felt like I’d met Nobi before somewhere. The image of him remained with me for some time.
I was born and raised in Japan, so much of the setting is naturally going to reflect the Japanese landscape. While this story does take place in a kind of proto-Japan, it belongs to no specific time or place. This story is set somewhere timeless that exists only in imagination.
Many days passed after I first saw Nobi running in my mind’s eye, and his image was joined by others that all meshed and melded together, like raindrops collecting to form a lake. I wanted to illuminate those images—to show them to others—and so I decided to write a story.
As you read the story, I hope you could feel the sensations of spring in Japan—the delicate scent of plum and cherry blossoms wafting around Sayo, the whispering of the silver grass that Nobi rushes through, etc.
I am indebted to my editor, Mr. Kishii of Rironsha, who patiently waited for over ten years for me to finish writing this story. He has made Beyond the Werefox Whistle into a wonderful book.
I would also like to express my gratitude to Yumiko Shirai, who painted so many beautiful illustrations. Their delicate detail adds so much warmth and charm to the tale. Thank you very much!
Uehashi Nahoko
September 2003
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