28 Sept 2009

Samurai William.

Samurai William By Giles Milton.

In 1611, London's merchants received an intriguing letter written by a marooned English mariner named William Adams, who had been living in the unknown land of Japan foe more than a decade. Seven adventurers were sent to Japan with orders to find and befriend Adams. It was believed he held the key to exploiting the opulent riches of this forbidden country; but when they arrived they discovered that William Adam had gone native.

FIRST SENTENCE: They had reached the end of the world.

Another well researched book penned by Giles Milton using a wealth of material, including letters, left by the early adventurers to Japan.

Not just the story of William 'Samurai' Adams but also men such as Richard Cocks and Richard Whickham who found themselves arrived in a strange land that though very barbaric was, in many other ways, far advanced as a society. Facing cultural and religious differences, values and beliefs, these men make this land their home.

An excellent read, well crafted and highly descriptive, Giles Milton brings history to life.

MY RATING: 4 out of a possible 5.

5 comments:

Kelly said...

Is this one based on an actual person in history or just similar situations that took place?

Not my favorite location for historical fiction, but it still sounds very interesting.

Felicity Grace Terry said...

Sorry should have mentioned - this is an actual account, using letters and other materials that the men left behind.

Heather said...

Hope you don't mind, but I have an unrelated question, I am currently reading "The Lost World" by Arthur Conan Doyle, and Professor Challener says 'that he is destined for Westminster Abbey'. What does that mean ? ie: does he expect to be buried there?

Thanks for your help.

Unknown said...

Incredible a letter arrived in England from Japan in 1611

Felicity Grace Terry said...

I don't mind at all Heather. Yes that sentence does indeed mean he expects to be buried there.