The Garden Where the Gods Play is the story of Ashiri, a woman who lives in a traditional Ainu dwelling - similar to the Indian teepee - without heat or running water. She has eight adopted children, all of whom were either orphaned or abused. She imparts to them everything she knows about the Ainu tradition and language. Ashiri is a shaman - a good sorceress - who officiates at ceremonies to welcome their gods to the "garden where they play". But, the modern world presses on and is becoming a real threat to the identity of these peaceful people and their simple way of life. - from catalog