This is a rare book of erotica that intends to excite the mind as well as the body. One point that the reader from New England misses when she states, "this book survives as a piece of literature resurrected from the past" is that the author has cleverly invented a story under the guise of translating an actual artifact. Successfully, apparently. A careful reading gives the book the credit it deserves.

This story of a poetic concubine and her relationship to the general has many smaller stories scattered throughout like wonderful little presents. The Lady Onogaro, in order to endure her lover's visits, hires the services of a storyteller to whisper erotic stories in her ear while she makes love to the general. The larger story is also interesting, and told in a beautifully translated language. Lady Onogaro's discovery of what is important transcends time and culture.

Much of the poetry of the Lady Onogaro is also included (more presents), contributing to the pleasure of reading. I found the stories stimulating, and keep a personal favorite marked for special occaisons.

A pleasurable book for those who like their erotica with a dash of exotica.

A modern woman's trials through self-doubt toward self-acceptance, clothed in the robes of Heian Japan. The author knows her Japanese mythology. Subtle allusions to ancient tales enhance the narrative. While some of the erotic tales are full of frustration and cruelty, most of them are funny and tender. The fantasies are woman-centered, celebrating women's sexuality in loving detail. A few imagine women's revenge for ill-treatment. And, if you follow the thread of Onogoro's own life between the fantasies, you find the story of so many 20th-century women, trying to let their hearts and talents shine in a world not made for them. Onogoro succeeds. This is a fable of feminine strength.