content: A very good writer tackling a little known (in the West) aspect of Japan and Japanese history. Although he did make errors when he discusses the historical background to his main subject (e.g., the author's assertion about the U.S.' view of Park Chung Hee of South Korea - actually, they were first afraid that he was a communist) does not detract from the readability of the book. Even the anecdotes are fascinating - I read every singly end note in the book and they are numerous and incredible.