BOOK REVIEW; Japonius Tyrannus
The Japanese Warlord, Oda Nobunaga reconsidered.

This is a brilliant book. This book is a necessity in the private library of anyone who has an
interest in Japanese history, particularly regarding Oda Nobunaga.

In 1998 Jeroen Lamers successfully presented his impressive doctoral dissertation titled Japonius
Tyrannus, A Political Biography of Oda Nobunaga to Leiden Universtity. Dr. Lamers’ dissertation
later became the basis for this exceptionally well researched, detailed book on one of the best
known figures of Japanese history. Published in 2000, this book presents a rich and detailed account
of Nobunaga’s personal, political and military career over it’s 232 pages, and having originally been
compiled as part of a doctorate, contains a full academic notes section too.

The book is a little expensive at around $120, but worth every penny.  Japonius Tyrannus is about
half the price of the recently published English version of the Shincho Koki, The Chronicles of Lord
Nobunaga, but worth so much more to those interested in Japanese history. Dr. Lamers’ book is
by far better written, more informative and easier to read. This work rounds out our knowledge
and understanding of this popular 16^th century warlord and may well be considered the authority
on Nobunaga. A must read! Buy it now!