Hirohito: Behind the Myth

by Edward Behr

Hardcover, 1989

Status

Available

Genres

Publication

New York : Villard Books, 1989.

Description

Describes the emperor's life from a shy young prince to his death, exploring the extent of his involvement in World War II and later his skillful diplomacy to escape trial as a war criminal.

User reviews

LibraryThing member briandrewz

This is a difficult book to review. I enjoyed learning about Hirohito, the Emperor of Japan who presided over World War II. On the other hand, the war years were a blur as I read them. So many facts. The author clearly wants us to come away with the opinion that Hirohito was much more directly

involved in the war than was let on. However, it's difficult for me to come to terms with that considering that the Imperial Household Agency wouldn't even let him eat a specific type of fish because it contained poison before it was cooked. And with what we know about how restrictive the IHA is today, it's confusing.

I definitely enjoyed reading about the Emperor's personal life. How a person lived is something I always am glad to read about.

Any hardcore World War II buff would enjoy this I am sure.

Show Less