Herbert P. Bix - Hirohito and the Making of Modern Japan

Pros: Well researched, very detailed, covers Emperor's entire life

Cons: Very long (over 700 pages), requires some knowledge of Japanese history

The Bottom Line: A remarkable scholarly work. Well researched and detailed biography of Emperor Hirohito. Runs long at over 700 pages and may be tough for people without prior study of Japanese history.

Review: Emperor Showa, commonly known as Hirohito in the United States, had from the end of World War II to the time of his death in 1989, been one of the most controversial figures relating to the war. Even after his death, many questions still remained as to...

Pros: Well written, interesting and a scholarly approach to an arcane subject.

Cons: It is long and covers a lot of history that an expert may already know.

The Bottom Line: If you are interested in Japan's modern history or the story of one of the more important figures of twentieth century, this is an enjoyable and scholarly text.

Review: In writing Hirohito and the Making of Modern Japan, Herbert Bix has done a groundbreaking work in terms of revisionism and attempting to re-look at history in a more accurate and realistic light. Taking into account the powers available to Hirohito and...