The Shortest History of Japan: From Mythical Origins to Pop Culture Powerhouse―The Global Drama of an Ancient Island Nation (The Shortest History Series)

An excellent potted history of Japan from its mythological roots, through the Jōmon and Yayoi eras, the creation of the imperial family, civil war, geopolitical relations, the rise of the Shōgun and the restoration of the monarchy right up to the year of the book's publication. Lesley Downer has drawn on her experiences of living in Japan and her deep interest in the country and its culture to write a book that is informative and entertaining. She keeps things pacey and condenses the complexity just enough, without sacrificing factual accuracy. It's a book I'm sure I'll dip into each time I want to refresh my memory of a particular era, and a book that added to my existing knowledge. I was especially impressed by Downer's show more foregrounding of the women who have played their part in Japan's history. show less