The Worlds of Japanese Popular Culture : Gender, Shifting Boundaries and Global Cultures (Contemporary Japanese Society)

Rating:
Summary: Totally Circular
Review: I'm probably not being fair to this book, since I have only skimmed (some of) it, but it seemed rather poor to me. To take a concrete example the essay on superheroes and monsters (by Tom Gill) was especially problematic. It uses the example of Superman vs Ultraman and states that (1) Superman is a total loner with no family or attachments (His family in Kansas? Supergirl? Lois Lane? don't count I guess) whereas Ultraman has a large number of companions (somewhat more true). (2) Superman's colors are like the colors of the American flag, whereas Ultraman's are like the "lucky colors" red and white (Q: has Tom Gill looked at the Japanese flag?). He then uses these and some better thought out characteristics of the characters to show that Superman is an American hero (individualistic) and Ultraman a Japanese hero (more like a kami). The problem is that (1) shows a lack of research, and (2) a lack of thought. This totally undercuts any later conclusions in the article.

The other articles I looked at seems a bit better, but this is not a very select selection.

Rating:
Summary: For pleasure and easy reference
Review: This is an exellent book for the beginner in studies of japanese culture. It deals with different matters such as: sumo, manga/anime, karaoke, horse-racing and womens magazines - all in a scientific but relaxed tone. Maybe you want what bosozoku-driving is??? In short - comprehensive and informative. A must for your bookshelf!!