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Dogs and Demons: Tales From the Dark Side of Modern Japan copyright 2001 by Alex Kerr

If you are curious at all about the modern (post WWII) history of Japan, how it became such a strong nation so quickly, how its culture has affected its government (and vice versa), and the many (and oft unspoken) issues/problems facing the country today, you will read this book. Seriously, go buy it right now. It is fascinating, enlightening, disheartening, and scary (especially if you have spent time in Japan).

With just two months left in Japan, it is a strange and most interesting time for me to read this book, for it contains some harsh criticisms of Japanese policies (from environmental to financial to educational). I don't want to leave with negative impressions, not after the incredible and enriching time I've spent here. However, just recently have I started to realize how I've changed in Japan, which parts of the culture I've adapted to, and which still seem so foreign to me. The book has answered many of my questions (even questions I didn't know I had) about Japan, and shed much light on a country where ideals reign over truths. Though I have seen glimpses of it with my own eyes, most shocking to me is the extent to which the bureaucratic juggernaut dominates not only government, but society as well.

Though the book will likely not be as meaningful for those of you who haven't spent time here, I still highly recommend it. It is well written, and contains a wealth of information on the current issues/challenges confronting (or perhaps, not confronting) Japan.