According to legend, Japanese villagers once lived in fear of great hulking ogres called "oni" who raided villages and stole all the babies in their desire for the tastiest of all treats--babies' belly buttons. In this delightful retelling, Sierra has added a feminist twist in the person if a fearless young heroine, Urikohime, the melon princess. An author's note explains the origin of the tale and its place in Japanese folklore. Full color.