Among Samurai and Shoguns: Japan, AD 1000-1700

For those of us with no prior knowledge of Japanese history, this book is a great way to start out with that particular time period. It is an easy read, with lovely pictures accompanying the text. Please be aware of that in spite of Mr. Turnbulls statements, this is a general overview of that era, NOT a serious in-depth treatment. Regarding the Genji Monogatari, the book refers to it frequently, but in a very superficial manner. The main purpose of this book seems to be to whet the reader's appetite for Japanese history, and in that aspect it was successful for my part.

This book is not only excellent as an introduction to the topic, making it an ideal gift, but it is of immense interest to the military enthusiast.The superb illustrations include the Nagashino Screen, the Mongol Scroll and the Heiji Monogatari Scroll, making the book unique outside Japan.