Hirohito: Behind the Myth

by Edward Samuel Behr

Book Overview

This superbly documented, revisionist biography of Emperor Hirohito, the longest reigning monarch of the twentieth century, clearly establishies Hirohito as a war criminal. 8 page photo insert.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0394580729
• ISBN13: 9780394580722
• Release Date: September 1989
• Publisher: Villard Books
• Length: 437 Pages
• Weight: 1.95 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Mind Numbing

I must start off by saying that when I first read this book I had very little knowledge of Hirohito or his involvement in WWII. However, after reading Behind the Myth, as well as learning a bit more, I now feel safe saying that the book is quite good, if not a little flawed. In all fairness the author was doing what was unheard of at the time the book was written, and that call just dead emperor of Japan a criminal of war. He made some rather broad generalizations and assumptions, but he managed to plant the seed of doubt in my mind. Granted, if you want to convince someone that Hirohito was guilty of starting the war, or that he should have even been tried, this book won't provide you with that information, however it is a good start. He won't convince you, but he will numb your mind and make it ready to accept the possibility.

A look inside Japanesse tradition

A great look into the mentality of the leaders of Japan before, during, and after WWII. This unbiased well written book shows the depth of Japanesse tradition and how it influenced the actions of an entire country. Behr gives enough information on supporting characters, but not enough to confuse the reader. An overall great book.