topical ... brings together contributions from leading authorities in the field of Japanese studies ... each chapter in the book is a commendable piece of research in itself and can be read as a standalone chapter. The attraction of the book lies in its assessment of Japan from different academic perspectives. It may appeal to business historians with an interest in the Japanese economy, particularly in the failings of financial institutions in recent years ... an interesting and useful source of reference on quite a broad range of topics relating to Japan. * Michael J.Lynskey, Business History, Vol.43, No.2, April 2001 *