Book Corner: Confessions of a Yakuza

I recently finished reading Junichi Saga's book entitled "Confessions of a Yakuza"

I have to say, I found this book down-right delightful. The basic premise of this book is the recounting of Ichiji Eiji's life and rise as a Yakuza during the 30's and 40's. It is written as a dialog between and to the Doctor, as the author, and at time's it feels as though Ichiji is telling you directly the intimate details of his youth.

Events include multiple incarserations in jail, serving in the military, falling in love again and again, and living by the code of Yakuza. All the while the details are explained as simply and straight-forward as though you were speaking with a friend. You really feel like you are right there, in 1930s' Asakusa.

I recommend this book to anyone, really, if you like Japan, history, biographies - it's just insightful and personal. You are able to understand what life really is like forYakuza, they don't carry around swords and draw out guns at the drop of a hat. They really do chop off their fingers however, Ichiji looses 2 for one woman. So give this book a reading if you have the chance, I doubt you would regret it!