Tokyo Confidential
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Another book by the prolific Mr. Schreiber, and this one is a lot of fun too. Although this book does still have several short articles highlighting Mr. Schreiber's expertise, that is, crime stories, it is very surprising in its breadth of exploring all things strange and deviant about Japan. Just when you thought you have seen or heard it all, this book in pure tabloid format will shock and amaze. The only problem is that the stories are all true. Among some of the more bizarre tales told throughout there are stories about:
Granted, many of the stories in the book are sexual in nature, some more bizarre and twisted than others. You will have to get the book and read the details for yourself. I can't bring myself to regale you with the accounts myself. Some just give me the shivers, others are just too hilarious to do justice here.
Japan is a strange place indeed, but please keep in mind that these accounts are sensational and not the norm. It would be the same as if Japanese people had watched Jerry Springer and Geraldo to get an objective account of what American life is all about. Yes, there are some weirdos who live among us. God bless 'em, but we are not all like that. This book is a fun distraction from some of the other heavier topics that can be read about, whether they be in real crime, Japanese aesthetics, history, or economics.
I stated on the index page of the Japan Book Reviews that there will be books that offend and shock, as well as books that expose some of the more unsavory elements of the Japanese. If that is what you are looking for, this book is one that will certainly fit the bill.
Recommended for seasoned readers of all things Japan.
Mark Groenewold
Kanazawa, Japan
March, 2003
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