Issue 12 (December 2007, Volume 2, Number 6)

In our final issue of 2007, we have some excellent reviews and previews of the latest Japan-related books hot off the printing press.

Our first article looks at a major new work by Sir Max Hastings on the dramatic final year that lead to Japan's wartime defeat.

We also feature three recently published Japanese language books which offer insights into the Koizumi years and the US-Japan relationship. New reviewer William Farr offers his verdict on a Japanese hot springs book, there is also another riveting reader's review plus lots more reviews and previews.

Finally, Japan Book Review says a tearful farewell to our Managing Editor Clare Barclay. Clare has worked on Japan Book Review for over two years and we could not have produced it without her. Many thanks on the readers' behalf and we will miss you.

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