Synopses & Reviews
Originally published in 1957, this enduring classicthe first-ever English publication cowritten by a Japanese suicide pilotremains a touching and insightful look into the world of the kamikaze. This edition, now completely revised, reflects the valuable insight and perspective gained by the author since the time of the books initial publication. From the age of 15, Yasuo Kuwahara began a life of military service that included suffering through brutal basic training, participating in ferocious aerial combat against the Allies, and avoiding a suicide mission when an atomic bomb was dropped in Hiroshima, near his hometown. From being handpicked for kamikaze service to finding the discipline to die for the emperor, this history presents a firsthand account of the fascinating life of a kamikaze fighter pilot.
Review
"This classic World War II autobiography [is] absolutely terrifying reading. Kuwahara's descriptions of the horrors of war are accessible and compelling." School Library Journal
About the Author
Yasuo Kuwahara trained as a Japanese fighter pilot for a kamikaze squadron during World War II.
Gordon T. Allred is a professor of English at Weber State University, where he has taught for more than four decades. He is the author of more than 20 books, including
Please Bless Marilyn and
Shannon. He is the recipient of the Utah Fine Arts Creative Writing Award and the Utah Author of the Year award. He lives in Ogden, Utah.