Books on Japanese mythology

[Astrella]

It's a friend of mine's birthday, and he's quite interested in mythology and Japanese mythology in particular, so I'm considering getting him a book about it.

Does the playground have any thoughts / recommendations to offer?

[Tebryn]

If you can find a translated copy, the Nihon Shoki or the Kojiki may be good buys.

[Bhu]

http://www.amazon.com/Pandemonium-Parade-Japanese-Monsters-Culture/dp/0520253620/ref=pd_sim_b_4/181-9544623-6720813

http://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Tales-Pantheon-folklore-library/dp/0375714510/ref=pd_sim_b_1

You'll find other possibilities linked to those two

[Zombulian]

"Heaven's Net is Wide". The first book of Otori. It's part of a series, but I've read just the one.