This is a thoroughly engaging and thought-provoking book, as Michael Booth travels around East Asia exploring the often uneasy relationship between the powerful 'tiger economies' of Japan, Korea (North and South) and China, by way of also passing through Taiwan before returning to his starting point. Part travelogue (full of comic little asides and comments from our intrepid author), part history and part social commentary, there is plenty in here to interest anyone who has little or no knowledge of the history of this area, but also plenty to keep anyone who does have some knowledge entertained. Booth wears his research well, never over-burdening the book with copious footnotes nor making it read like a fusty textbook. In his travels he encounters academics, historians, museum curators and locals, all of whom have their opinion and who continually confound the author just when he thinks he has grasped the 'truth'. Knowledgeable and entertaining, this is perfect for what it sets out to achieve, and some of the facts will surprise you and have you scuttling off to research more. And Booth is an amiable companion, whether battling with metal chopsticks, laser surgery or visiting a park filled with giant penis statues, which makes this a rewarding and impressive read. For anyone interested in this part of the world I wholeheartedly recommend this wonderful little book.