Dragon Man: An Actor's Transformation

Everyone BeLIEves Their Own Story

Published by Essentia Books
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
LIST PRICE $18.95

About The Book

When universal pattern and personal possibility converge, it poignantly reminds us that mind and world are inextricably linked, birthing meaning.

When universal patterns and personal journeys intertwine, they reveal the profound connection between mind and world, inviting us to discover the powerful, transformative meaning at the heart of our experiences. This engaging book delves into the invisible forces that subtly shape our actions, thoughts, and feelings. Drawing from his life as a half-Japanese, Canadian actor and poet in Tokyo, West weaves his personal narrative with the mythic story of Susanoo, the storm god, and his battle against the multi-headed dragon, Yamata no Orochi. This exploration blends lessons from acting and Japanese aesthetics with insights into creativity, mindfulness, and the quest for meaning, forming a poignant collage of redemption and self-discovery. As West examines archetypes - the templates of Universal Mind - he illustrates how these patterns exist like a stencil awaiting color. They come to life when imbued with significance through our beliefs and choices. His journey serves as a testament to resilience, as the book embodies the healing that allows him to rekindle his dreams. Through this fusion of memoir and spiritual guidance, readers are inspired to reflect on their own lives and recognize the signs and patterns that lead to a personal awakening of their destiny. Ultimately, this poetic work urges us to acknowledge that real meaning can be found anytime, anywhere, so long as we dare to see the beauty within ourselves and in the world around us. It’s in the delicate balance of pattern and possibility that we uncover our true selves and the stories worth believing in.

About The Author

Jai Tatsuto West is a bilingual and bicultural actor and poet, born in Vancouver, British Columbia, and based in Tokyo for 25 years. He has appeared in numerous films and television shows in North America and Japan, making his screen debut in 1991 on the popular show '21 Jump Street'. In 2004, he co-starred in the Japanese box office hits 'Survive Style 5+', 'The Private Detective Mike', and 'Hazard'. In 2018, he became the Chairman of 'Iron Chef Canada'. He has also released two spoken word albums of poetry in English and Japanese under the pseudonym Lotus Chamelion. Jai is the lead actor in a new Sion Sono film titled 'Evaporation'.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Essentia Books (May 5, 2026)
  • Length: 200 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781917704137

Browse Related Books

Resources and Downloads

High Resolution Images

BACK TO TOP