This beautifully illustrated volume (one of a world-history series from Time-Life books) tells the story of a grand empress' unstoppable ambition to determine who would rule her nation, as well as other compelling tales of the men and women of medieval Japan. It focuses upon the daily lives of emperors and artisans, samurai and poets, and courtesans and monks in the capitals of Kyoto and Edo, in the countryside, in various castle towns and military fortifications, and in action on the battlefield. The distinctive and colorful scroll paintings bring Japan's people, places, and events vividly to life. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
