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A review by luzbella
Taiko: An Epic Novel of War and Glory in Feudal Japan by Eiji Yoshikawa
5.0
96/365
Written in a simple, straight foward, and distinctly Japanese style, Taiko tells the story of Hideyoshi in the manner of a wise, old storyteller. The author inserts bits of wisdom throughout the book, as might a kindly grandfather relating the tale to his grandchildren. The occasional, unashamedly chauvinistic comments which are definitely not politically correct today, do however, reflect the thinking of the times and lend an air of credibility to the story. I do not know how accurately the novel reflects history, but it is certainly detailed, but never boring. It also provides insight into how complex the Japanese feudal system could be and how various clan leaders were faced with splits in their loyalty to their clans and family and fealty to their lords. Taiko is an educational and entertaining read, which I highly recommend.
Written in a simple, straight foward, and distinctly Japanese style, Taiko tells the story of Hideyoshi in the manner of a wise, old storyteller. The author inserts bits of wisdom throughout the book, as might a kindly grandfather relating the tale to his grandchildren. The occasional, unashamedly chauvinistic comments which are definitely not politically correct today, do however, reflect the thinking of the times and lend an air of credibility to the story. I do not know how accurately the novel reflects history, but it is certainly detailed, but never boring. It also provides insight into how complex the Japanese feudal system could be and how various clan leaders were faced with splits in their loyalty to their clans and family and fealty to their lords. Taiko is an educational and entertaining read, which I highly recommend.