It is therefore timely that Patrick Drazen, an expert on Japanese popular culture, has written an overview of Anime, from its roots in traditional Japanese culture to its themes and motifs and contemporary expressions. Drazen is particularly interesting when offering examples that in his words "illustrate the ways in which our cultures are different--and yet, in spite of the differences, capable of communicating essential truths from one culture to the next."

The book is divided into two parts. Part I deals with the major themes of Japanese culture expressed in Anime, themes that are not obvious to the Westerner at first glance. Part II takes a closer look at the feature films, television series, and original animation videos that have become "classics."

This book is useful not only as a reference to Anime, but also as a rewarding guide to some aspects of contemporary Japanese culture.