The Blue Wolf

September 1, 2008
An exciting first English translation of the popular Japanese original, this book promises to create new Genghis enthusiasts with its imaginative but historically faithful interpretation of the great Mongol leader's life. Appreciated by both lay readers and scholars, Inoue's award-winning novels are renowned in his native country for their creative takes on holes in the historical record; this one has been widely translated and is the basis of at least one movie. Inoue answers intriguing questions about Genghis Khan's motivations and what happened during key but unrecorded times in his life. Translator Fogel (history, York Univ., Toronto) is to be applauded for bringing such a rousing Japanese favorite to a wider audience. However, this is perhaps too close a reading of the original; some of the descriptive phrasing is extremely awkward and would have benefited from a looser rendering. The addition of a glossary to explain such basics as Chinggis's anglicized identity (Genghis Khan) and that of frequently mentioned people such as the Jin would also have been helpful. Recommended for large academic and public libraries.Megan Hodge, Richmond P.L., VA

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