by Christopher M. Clarke (Author)
Asian history is replete with stories of combat, heroism, self-sacrifice, valor, strategy, and compassion. Samurai, Scoundrels, and Saints includes more than three dozen such stories, ranging from the famous woman warrior, Tomoe Gozen, to how the renowned samurai, Miyamoto Musashi was almost killed in the bath tub and from the monk who defied the Mongols, to the supernatural creatures that reputedly taught the famous warrior Yoshitsune how to fight. It includes tales of daring rescues, narrow escapes, treachery, and Zen enlightenment. The final tale tells the story of "The Last Samurai" who remained in the jungle of Guam from the time of the Japanese surrender in 1945 until he was finally convinced the war was over and he could surrender in 1972. Samurai, Scoundrels and Saints is heavily illustrated and has a beautiful full-color cover. It is sure to appeal to martial artists, arm-chair enthusiasts, those interested in Asian history, and people just looking for a "good read."