Whenever most of us think of pirates, the skull and crossbones flag and visions of heavily gunned ships battling it out in the Caribbean come to mind. Yet, these men were really only newcomers to the scene as piracy is as old as seafaring.

This new book from Osprey concentrates on piracy in the far east, specifically regarding the countries of Japan, Korea and China. It will probably interest readers to know that this part of the world, or more specifically southeast Asia, is still a hot-bed of piracy even now in the 21st century.

Much of the piracy of the time was perpetrated by Japanese sailors and families against not only other Japanese, but against the Korean peninsula and the coast of China. Most of these men were normal sailors who used times of hard luck to raid other sailors and coastal villages and towns. Though it started out pretty well free-lance, towards the end of this period of time, it became more and more organized.

Author Stephen Turnbull takes a look at the start of piracy in the area and concentrates on some of the more successful raids and pirate leaders. Their strongholds are also examined in considerable detail as is the way these men were dressed and armed. Their victims are also researched as these towns were not about to just let themselves be plundered. Walled cities and fortresses were established to combat the pirate raids and several of these facilities are also looked at in detail.

All of this is enhanced by period accounts and artwork that show just how brutal and vicious these pirates could be. The excellent illustrations of Richard Hook further bring their lifestyle and means of dress to life. This book combines two favorite subjects; piracy and medieval Japan into one superb volume that you won't want to miss.

December 2007

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