John Wesley Harris's introduction to the traditional theatre of Japan is a new and exciting contribution to the field. It is succinct and beautifully written providing a much needed interpretation of the historical and philosophical background for the drama including the connections to Samurai tradition, Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. He surveys some of the key writers, theatres and structures of the plays of kyogen, noh, kabuki, the early puppet theatres and bunraku. The art of acting whether by the actor or the puppeteer is examined and detailed observations are compiled on the various settings, costumes, masks, make-up and puppets used. The main thrust of the study is to lead us to an appreciation of the stylization, rituals and traditions underpinning Japanese symbolic theatre and its importance as "a theatre of conscious art". This book will become a standard work and a first port of call for all those interested in the field. The book is in hardback edition - and although a little expensive like so many in the Mellen range - it is well worth the investment. There are also 11 line drawings by the author. p.253