The Twelve Kingdoms is a series of fantasy novels that were turned into a brilliant anime available from AnimeWorks. A complex and graceful story of how a young girl, Yoko Nakagima, is pulled out of our world and into the kingdom of Kou, a harsh and unforgiving place. Keiki, the man who brought her here against her will, disappears to leave Yoko helpless and lost in a place where monsters roam and the king is determined to see her dead. The story follows her journey to find Keiki and make him take her back home, or so it starts. Along the way she discovers this univiting place is her true home, and she is the new queen of the kingdom of Kei. Keiki is her kirin, (chinese unicorn) and servant to the throne.

Yoko begins as a weak-willed, confused coward, only thinking of how not to get hurt or into trouble. After several betryals, she becomes hard and cold to the people who try to help her. It takes a young honju, or half-beast, to show her how to trust again. All along the way she enconters many different characters who help her learn lessons she will eventually need as queen. Lots of action, impressive monsters, beautiful music, and a engaging storyline all conspire to make The Twelve Kingdoms a classic worthy of a spot on every anime fan's shelf.