A book for the real otaku

[Anjin-san]

I just recently discovered the existence of this interesting new book though I have yet to actually get my hands on a copy; It's been in academic circles for a year and is now getting notice in the "general" book trade

"The Other Side of Zen: A Social History of Soto Zen Buddhism in Tokugawa Japan" by Duncan Ryuken Williams

Rather than showing the influence of Buddhism or Zen on thought and attitudes, this book illustrates the influence the institution of the Soto Zen sect had on society and politics. (Soto was the sect of the common man and therefore was the largest. Samurai / Bushi who were Buddhist, however, usually were of the Rinzai sect.)

To be sure, the book is highly particular in its subject matter; But I thought it might be of interest to the Japanese history otaku who has to know everything.

I can't wait to read this. Hopefully, I can get it on an inter-library loan.