Murphy has an admirable desire to educate: the stories are interspersed with discussions about broader Japanese social themes, including a fascinating discussion of life in Japanese prisons. -Asia Review of Books Murphy never exploits his subjects; instead, his deep research offers insights u at times instructive, at others sobering u into Japanese culture and how societal changes play ... Read moreout at the grassroots level. -Japan Times Murphy creates a winning mix of irreverent and earnest observations in this snapshot of the underworld in modern Japan. -Publishers Weekly Paul Murphy's understanding of these processes shines through in his writing. He does not over complicate or throw statistics in to impress. He weaves such information effortlessly within the narrative resulting in welcome additions to case studies. -Crime Traveller ...What makes this book compelling are the portraits of human frailty that so often lie behind crime in a society not known for crime -Global Asia The cultural contrast between our legal system and that of Japan makes this book a surreal read...Murphy has produced a vivid insight to crime and punishment in Japan. -Independent.ie Murphy has an admirable desire to educate: the stories are interspersed with discussions about broader Japanese social themes, including a fascinating discussion of life in Japanese prisons. -South China Morning Post The non-fiction title is a fascinating compendium of crimes heard in a courtroom in Matsumoto, Nagano, over one year. The cases, including murder and serial theft, provide a glimpse into Japanese society and its judicial system. -The Straits Times Show Less