The Outnation: A Search for the Soul of Japan Jonathan Rauch; Joel Sackett and James M. Fallows

An exploration of Japan and its people delves into the values, politics, economic system, and culture of this often misunderstood society

Freelance journalist Rauch sets out to decipher the Japanese mindset in an edifying volume that analyzes Japan's contradictory aspects and swift rise to prominence in the world market. His observations on Japanese politics, education, business, hierarchies and homogeneity are loosely strung together and presented in concise segments, each less than a page long. Fallows ( More Like Us ), who differs with Rauch on matters of Japanese economics, points out in his foreword the difficulties in creating a lucid portrait of such a puzzling culture. Rauch's extravagant praise of Japanese skin and hair may cause readers to squirm, even if some Japanese are equally curious about blonds; his acceptance of Japan's notions of fairness and discrimination against women and foreigners will likely rattle liberals. Nonetheless, this provocative book invites attention from Americans attempting to comprehend the Japanese. First serial to Los Angeles Times . Photos.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Rauch approaches unraveling the "mystery" of Japan as an individual and asserts that we as citizens need to look at and learn about this fascinating country, not just leave it to the so-called "experts" on political and foreign affairs. Using a writing style that is fluid, almost mesmerizing, Rauch invites us to peek at snippets of Japanese lives that we would surely otherwise never get to see. Americans who conjure visions of ancient, traditional Japan will be surprised at the reality, as was the author "surprised by their ordinariness. I was to be surprised this way many times." Wonderful reading accented by many candid and telling photographs. Recommended for most collections.
- Lisa K. Miller, American Graduate Sch. of International Management Lib., Glendale, Ariz.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.