Plot: Yoda and Alt make a solid attempt to separate fact from fiction in this history book. Ninjas, they explain, were not the black-clad shinobi recognized today. Instead, ninjas provided information and assassinations, usually for a price or for country, disguised as "plainsclothes" - farmers, servants, and other, normal, people. Yet, ninjas enjoyed a mythical status even early in their creation. As a result, the two authors discuss factual ninjas, mythical ninjas, non-ninjas (with ninja-like behavior), and Oda Nobunaga, the ultimate ninja killer.
Genre: History, Ninjas, Myth, Folktales
Reading Level: Most of the writing is fairly high-brow, but information about assassins, spys, and femme fatales may not be suitable for younger readers.
Similar Titles: Ninja: The Shadow Warrior, 101 Great Samurai Prints
Personal Thoughts: I would definitely recommend this to any ninja (and even most non-ninja) fans. The book considers both the modern view and influence of ninjas as well as the actual origins of the so-called dark warriors in a comprehensible manner without being patronizing. Additionally, the illustrations attract attention while adding to the stories of the larger-than-life individuals.
As a side note, there is nothing special about the photo. It is just a standard mosasaur in a woven jewelry box.
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