As a tea lover, I find books about tea to be very interesting, especially if the topic of Japan is involved.
Imagine my happiness when I found a book that explains the relationship of the tea ceremony with the political history of Japan between the twelfth and twentieth centuries!
This book by Linda Hewitt is structured in chronological order, so that in each step of Japan’s history we see how tea (and especially the Japanese tea ceremony) played an important role.
From the beginning of tea in Japan when in was brought from China, to the way the political powers used the tea ceremony for their own agendas, it’s a very interesting read.
Have you ever wondered why tea masters where so important in the history of Japan? You’ll find out the extent of their influence though this book.
As a bonus, it has many illustrations that add more visual content.
I bought the ebook version from Amazon, it is quite inexpensive. If you like history and tea, you’ll have a pleasant time.
March 10, 2015
Thanks for this review, Ricardo. I’m very proud to have been chosen to narrate and produce the audiobook version of this book (it’s available at Audible.com).
March 10, 2015
Hi Ken
Thanks for the comment. I haven’t listened to the audio book but you have a great voice, I listened to your podcast 🙂
March 12, 2015
Thanks, Ricardo. I’m really enjoying your podcasts as well. Right now I’m listening to your Cha Doraku episode. Fascinating interview.
May 27, 2015
Ricardo – Thank you very much for the review of The Japanese Tea Ceremony and the Shoguns. Given your degree of expertise, it’s especially gratifying to know that you like the coverage of the topic.
May 27, 2015
Hello Linda
Thanks for your comment and for writing such an interesting book.