Rafe Martin

In this Algonquian Indian version of the Cinderella story, the Rough-Face Girl and her two beautiful but heartless sisters compete for the affections of the Invisible Being.

The rough-face girl

Dan Bellm

Prince Ardwin, known as Birdwing, the youngest of six brothers turned into swans by their stepmother, is unable to complete the transformation back into human form, so he undertakes a journey to discover whether his feathered arm will be a curse or a blessing to him. Reprint.

Birdwing

Having survived a shipwreck, a princess tries to tell a prince a story whose ending he does not know and thus qualify for his hand in marriage.

The Storytelling Princess

The Boy Who Lived with the Seals

The World Before This One

Features a collection of Buddhist tales with themes of wisdom, nonviolence, environmentalism, and respect for life. Combines ancient story traditions with contemporary thought, displaying the relevance of the tales to modern times.

Buddhist Myths, Legends, and Jataka Tales

The Hungry Tigress

***WINNER, 2011 Storytelling World Resource Award – Best Storytelling Collection The jataka tales—stories of the Buddha’s past lives (in both human and animal form)—were first said to have been told by the Buddha himself 2,500 years ago. Five hundred and fifty jataka tales comprise part of the oldest Buddhist text, the Pali Canon. From this wealth of folklore, award-winning author and storyteller Rafe Martin has chosen ten tales that illustrate the ideals of the Buddhist paramitas, or “perfections” of character: giving, morality, forbearance, vitality, focused meditation, wisdom, compassionate skillful means, resolve, strength, and knowledge. Artist and designer Richard Wehrman helps bring the spirit of these stories alive with rich illustrations that open each chapter. Endless Path presents these ancient stories, usually reduced to children’s tales in the West, for adults, reconnecting modern seekers with the more imaginative roots of Buddhism. The jatakas help readers see their own lives, their failures and renewed efforts, in the same light as the challenges the Buddha faced—not as obstacles but as opportunities for developing character and self-understanding. Endless Path demonstrates the relevance of these tales to Buddhist lay practitioners today, as well as to those more broadly interested in Buddhist teaching and the ancient art of storytelling.

Awakening Within the Buddhist Imagination: Jataka Tales, Zen Practice, and Daily Life

Endless Path

A collection of traditional Japanese tales expanded, developed, and reinterpreted by the author in light of his own vision and experience, includes a fisherman who rows out to sea, never to return, and others

Mysterious Tales of Japan

As all the animals panic and flee at little rabbit's announcement that the earth is breaking up, a brave lion steps in and brings sense to the situation.

Foolish Rabbit's Big Mistake

How can you save a burning forest with just sprinkles of water? This timeless Buddhist tale may just have the answer! In this ancient tale of one of the Buddha’s past lives, the Buddha is born as a little gray parrot who takes it upon herself to save her beloved forest home from a raging fire. Even though she can only sprinkle drops of water onto the blaze, her perseverance, courage, and compassion change everything, eventually saving the forest in an unexpected way. Zen teacher and acclaimed storyteller Rafe Martin and award-winning illustrator Demi render this centuries-old classic into a beautiful and timeless tale that will inspire all of us to find our own bravery and to act selflessly for the benefit of all.

The Brave Little Parrot

A tale both ancient and timely -- and a moving story of compassion in the face of personal loss and trials -- "The Banyan Deer" is a parable that highlights courage, triumph, and the meaning of true wisdom. Beautifully illustrated and elegantly told, this emotional tale resonates with all readers, no matter the age. Illustrated sumptuously by Richard Wehrman's images that are reminiscent of the work of Eric Gill and Rockwell Kent, this book makes an ideal gift. A wonderful keepsake for anyone facing transitions or rites of passage, this is a story for recent graduates, environmentalists, animal lovers, and anyone who wants a meaningful fable in a lovely package.

A Parable of Courage and Compassion

The Banyan Deer

Prince Ardwin, known as Birdwing, the youngest of six brothers turned into swans by their stepmother, is unable to complete the transformation back into human form, so he undertakes a journey to discover whether his feathered arm will be a curse or a blessing to him.

Fahimeh Amiri

A human king learns wisdom and compassion from a monkey king willing to make a great sacrifice for the good of his subjects.

The Monkey Bridge

Susan Gaber

Glowing illustrations enhance this retelling of the Russian tale about a wealthy merchant's younger son who proves his worth in an unusual way. Full color.

The Language of Birds

His inspiring tale reminds us that no one can be truly at peace unless all beings have a chance for peace, freedom, and happiness. The Banyan Deer is a wonderful, heart-warming gift for anyone who loves a great story. This beautiful hardcover edition will delight both adults and children alike.

WINNER, 2011 Storytelling World Resource Award - Best Storytelling Collection. The jataka tales - stories of the Buddha's past lives (in both human and animal form) - were first said to have been told by the Buddha himself 2,500 years ago. Five hundred and fifty jataka tales comprise part of the oldest Buddhist text, the Pali Canon. From this wealth of folklore, award - winning author and storyteller Rafe Martin has chosen ten tales that illustrate the ideals of the Buddhist paramitas, or ''perfections'' of character: giving, morality, forbearance, vitality, focused meditation, wisdom, compassionate skillful means, resolve, strength, and knowledge. Artist and designer Richard Wehrman helps bring the spirit of these stories alive with rich illustrations that open each chapter. Endless Path presents these ancient stories, usually reduced to children's tales in the West, for adults, reconnecting modern seekers with the more imaginative roots of Buddhism. The jatakas help readers see their own lives, their failures and renewed efforts, in the same light as the challenges the Buddha faced - not as obstacles but as opportunities for developing character and self - understanding. Endless Path demonstrates the relevance of these tales to Buddhist lay practitioners today, as well as to those more broadly interested in Buddhist teaching and the ancient art of storytelling.

Awakening Within the Buddhist Imagination: Jatka Tales, Zen Practice, and Daily Life

Because they freed a shark caught in a net, the fearsome Shark God rescues a brother and sister from the cruel king's imprisonment and helps them find a new, peaceful kingdom across the sea.

Rafe Martin

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