The Last Yakuza: A Life in the Japanese Underworld

The Last Yakuza is a gripping non-fiction work that explores the internal politics of the Japanese mafia, following the rise and fall of a yakuza boss through post-war desperation, bubble-era optimism, and the present.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

The Last Yakuza, despite being categorized as non-fiction, possesses a thrilling narrative quality that captivates readers. Authored by Jake Adelstein, the book offers a unique and insightful portrayal of the Japanese mafia, akin to a gripping thriller. Adelstein's writing is characterized by a sacred, ferocious, and businesslike tone, providing a distinctive perspective on this enigmatic criminal organization.

Roberto Saviano, in his work "Tokyo Vice," provides a captivating portrayal of the Japanese mafia, highlighting its sacred, ferocious, and businesslike nature. Makoto Saigo, a half-American and half-Japanese individual in a small-town Japan, possesses a range of talents, primarily limited to playing guitar and engaging in fights. Realizing that rock stardom is not his path to success, Saigo turns his attention to the yakuza, a hierarchical society where he can start from the bottom and rise through sheer merit, loyalty, and brute force.

Saigo, affectionately known as Tsunami, quickly realizes that within the yakuza, opinions vary widely, and a clash of philosophies can be fatal. One mistake can cost him his life or, at the very least, a finger. The internal politics of the yakuza are intricate and complex, with a web of alliances constantly shifting and the encroachment of law pushing them further underground. Saigo finds himself at the center of a defining decades-long battle that will shape the future of the yakuza.

Adelstein, an investigative journalist with expertise in Japanese organized crime, writes with a deep understanding of the subject matter and a genuine compassion for his subjects. The book spans a broad timeline, from post-war desperation to the bubble-era optimism and the present. It includes a cast of memorable yakuza bosses, such as Coach and The Buddha, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

"The Last Yakuza" is a captivating story that explores the rise and fall of a man, a country, and a dishonest but sometimes honorable way of life on the brink of being lost. It sheds light on the complexities of Japanese society, the influence of the yakuza on its culture, and the challenges faced by individuals who choose to navigate this treacherous world. Through Adelstein's meticulous research and compelling storytelling, readers are transported into the heart of the yakuza, experiencing its highs and lows, its rituals, and its codes of honor.

In conclusion, "The Last Yakuza" is a must-read for anyone interested in crime, history, or the intricacies of Japanese society. It is a work of non-fiction that reads like a thrilling thriller, offering a unique and insightful perspective on the Japanese mafia. Adelstein's writing is masterful, and the book's broad timeline and memorable characters make it a captivating and immersive experience.

Weight: 684g
Dimension: 163 x 243 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472158314