Samurai: The World of the Warrior, by Stephen Turnbull, lives up to its title by thoroughly presenting the world of the samurai warrior. The author, who is considered the world's leading authority on the samurai, discusses such topics as the cult of suicide, revenge, and the lore of the sword. If you're interested at all in Japanese history and the samurai, this is the book to read.

I have to say that the thought of reading a book on the samurai warriors did not really appeal to me at first; however, as I started reading, and looking at the artwork and poetry included, I found the subject to be fascinating and certainly one that I'd never encountered. Several times while I was in the process of reading the book, our family discussed various topics related to the samurai over dinner. As a result, our boys picked up this book and found it fascinating.

I can't necessarily say that Samurai: The World of the Warrior is a book that all families should have in their home school library. However, it is an interesting peak into a period of Japanese history that is often misunderstood. Dr. Turnbull presents the subject in a manner that will straighten out misconceptions and fill in the missing details.

I recommend Samurai: The World of the Warrior, by Stephen Turnbull, if you're interested in "the rest of the story" about the samurai.

Product review by Dr. Heather W. Allen, Senior Analytical Consultant, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, August 2006