This is a fabulous book for anyone fascinated with Asian culture. Written by a Dr. Jon Carter Covell, a Japanese and Korean art history scholar, the book can be enjoyed by someone unfamiliar with the Korean culture and also by students of Asian culture. The book is divided into three parts: Shaman Roots, Buddhist Roots, and Neo-Confucian Roots. While the headings may sound academic, the subjects are very interesting and written for the layman.

Shaman Roots was the most intriguing. It explained the history and significance of the Korean reindeer with the golden antlers, also known as the famous Silla golden crown. I was very interested by the chapter on long life goals - the Koreans have ten symbols of longevity! Korea's set of longevity symbols are more numerous and somewhat different from China's and Japan's and elicit much attention in Korean art. Included are separate chapters on evil-repelling symbols, good luck symbols, and special spirits.

Because of Dr. Covell's extensive background, there are several comparisons made with the Chinese and Japanese cultures, and how they influenced each other. Because of the easy style of writing, the reader almost feels like Dr. Covell is sharing her advertures with a friend. I was fascinated with her comments and comparison of a Japanese geisha and Korean kisaeng party! Historical facts are intertwined with art and cultural tidbits. This was the most comprehensive work I have found explaining Korea's unique culture. I even learned some new things about the Japanese and Chinese culture, an unexpected bonus.

Out of the three East Asian civilizations, it appears Japan has gotten the most attention from the West. Japan is neither the oldest or most colorful of the major East Asian cultures. Little do most people know that the Japanese are probably the biggest cultural borrowers that mankind has ever seen. Whether it be aping every western during the Meiji Restoration or copying the Chinese structure of government during the Taiki Reforms. This book is about early Japanese history and how the Japanese copied the art and culture of Korea in the formative years of Yamato. It's a real, but often unacknowledged history that has to be told so the world can put Japanese culture in its correct context when compared to other East Asian cultures. The book itself is good in most regards, but sometimes it is too dogmatic in its presentation. Many pictures to illustrate the author's points. Considering the scarcity of books on this subject, anyone interested in Japan's early past should take a look at this book.

Jon and Alan Covell present evidence of Korea's influence on ancient Japan in a way that is easy to understand. Japan, an economic power today has always denied historical influnce Korean culture has had on its culture. It has even halted archeological excavations on ancient tombs because of the unwanted reality they may provide.

Covell provides some key evidence which provides strong support for the penninsular influence on Japan. Covell organizes the book in a chronological fashion which allows for easy reading. The book also contains many photographs, maps and other visual information to supplement the reading.

If you are interested in East Asian history and have an open mind, this book may prove to be very interesting. If you are not convinced by Corvell concerning the influence of Korea on ancient Japan, the authors at least bring a different perspective to Japan's cultural connection with the continent.

The author reveals what Japanese do not want to admit. Indeed, Japanese culture is influenced by the Korean culture. This scholary writing based on her extensive research reveals the secret of Japanese history. It is an excellent book.