Haruko Taya Cook

Very well done picture, from oral histories, of the mental state and beliefs of the varied strata within the Japanese People cum WW2. Penetrative insights into the pervasive propaganda and motivation that emphasized the feelings of frustration and bitterness used to justify the very aggressive warlike policies and actions of their militaristic regime. The two authors used their unique backgrounds to aptly portray a society little understood in this period by the vast majority of Occidental show more politicians and military leaders. They collected, organized and presented these data to tell their own story and did it extremely well. show less

Simply harrowing to say the least. Sometimes even nauseating. Highly recommend to people who don't understand how people can commit atrocious acts, but also to people who don't understand how integral understanding the culture climate of an area is to understanding why things turned out the way they did.

This book was amazing. It's a really hard and tough read because it's so densely packed with information. And not just information you've heard before, it's the good, the bad, and the very very ugly side of the Japanese Empire. From the beginning of the war to the beginning of the occupation, the first hand accounts are priceless. This book is sure to create a whirlwind of emotions with anyone who reads it. Although I'd recommend it mainly to history buffs, WWII researchers, or anyone show more studying any facet of Japan, it really is a moving book about the monstrosities of humanity and war. To learn about how valuable world peace and eliminating genocide and how important human rights are, this book offers many more lessons than one would wish to have happened. Great book. show less

Significance
This book is one of the few compilations of first-hand accounts of common, everyday people--both victims and perpetrators of violence.


Artwork/Writing/Narrative/Organization
* Its diverse sampling of Japanese society is wonderful.
* Arranged in a common sense chronological order.
* Divided into well-defined subjects.

Personal Notes
War affects the common people the most--much more than the leaders and the privileged classes--that's why their story needs to be told. Ever since I read show more Studs Terkel's [b:A Good War: Oral History of WWII|1424076|A Good War Oral History of WWII|Studs Terkel|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1266798888s/1424076.jpg|2146893] years ago, I've always been on the lookout for books that collect interviews such as these. show less