Shōgun: The Epic Novel of Japan Audiobook

" I loved this book back in the mid eighties. It put me to sleep for months on end. Since I had insomnia, that was great. By halfway through, I couldn't keep track of the plot or characters at all. "

" Unabashed guilty pleasure. A thousand-some-odd pages -- none of them dull. "

" Although I have read Clavell before I did not read Shogun until after I saw the Miniseries. Enjoyed the clash of culture overview of east/west and thought the characters were excellent "

" Aside from the length I found the historical and cultural aspects to the book to be fascinating and I guess that's what kept me turning to 1,125th page (Jesus I didn't realise it was that bloody long!!). My knowledge of 17th century Japanese history and culture would be very minimal but apparently aside from a few anachronisms the book is closely based on actual events. It's definitely a good page turner, despite the length and I did really enjoy it. "

" Loooong. But good and interesting. Lots of Japanese culture and buddism. "

" It was like a roller coaster. Slow and uneventful at the start almost quit at a point(too many characters) but then.... Hallelujah!!! "

" A lengthy book, but worth it. Interweaving of Japanese culture and history into this book are brilliant, if disturbing at times. It is a Stranger in a Strange Land, but the victor is the man who does not fight it, but tries to understand and become part of this foreign culture. "

" Another historical novel, well written and worth the effort. I also recommend his Nobel House series, set in Hong Kong. "

" Excellent read. Longest book I have read yet, but the story was a great story and it keeps you engaged during the entire read. Looking forward to next in series. "

" Vast, Epic and compelling. I loved every word of this book. Despite its size and complexity, it never become dull or confusing. "

" wow I read this a long time ago! "

" 5++. Magnificent understanding at 16th century Japan - the code of Samuri "

" Even more remarkable the second time around. I think I may go for a 3rd in a few years and maybe even more than that. "

" This is my favourite novel of all time ... an absolute classic blockbuster ... creating an incredible historical world. It is also a subtle study of the acquisition of power. "

" This book taught me to stop reading if it doesn't grab you in the first 50 pages. I read the whole thing and hated every page. I hoped that it would get better....it didn't. If you are not into hisorical novels, epic period dramas, give it a miss "

" I read this one not long after the mini series with Richard Chamberlain was first broadcast. "

" When the pages started falling out of my paperback I new it was time to get a new copy! I have read and re-read this book a hundred times! It is epic in both size and wonder! This book will take you on a journey you will never forget! "

" This book is over a thousand pages but you'll wish it was twice as long. It was immediately a favorite - rarely is historical fiction both so engaging and so informative. It brilliantly illuminates Japanese culture during what was probably the height of samurai culture. A new favorite! "

" Brilliant. Highly recommended. Gigantic characterizations, tightly plotted, and perfectly paced. The mini-series was good, but this book is absolutely outstanding. As with all great period or historical novels, the reader comes away thinking, "oh THAT'S what happened!". "

" Had not read it since high school. Got it from the library on my Kobo and throughly enjoyed it again. Perhaps I will get Tai Pan again. Anyhow, a great read. "

" An interesting look into Japanese history and culture with a neat story to go with it! "

" Snoozefest-has no emotional connection whatsoever. Sorry, Sarah! "

" My favourite historical fiction novel. The detail is amazing, the plot laced with intricacies. Every minor character is invaluable to the story. Every major character could be the focus of a separate novel. "

" My favorite book for the longest time... "

" Decent writing on a technical scale, but riddled with confusing historical inaccuracies. "

" A brilliant portray of pre-industrial Japan during the Shogun's reign. Honor, austerity and self discipline are traits to live, or die by during this stormy era. Clavell has an uncanny way of involving his readers in his character's struggles for survival or supremacy. A great rollicking read. "

" First read this beautiful book when I was around 15 or so, and have loved it ever since. Very well set, nicely descriptive and evocative of other times. I wanted to be a samurai! "

" Perhaps one of the most engaging books I have read. A beautiful book. "

" My favourite historical fiction novel. The detail is amazing, the plot laced with intricacies. Every minor character is invaluable to the story. Every major character could be the focus of a separate novel. "

" It's gripping; I would recommend it. "

" hard to read sometimes, but worth the time "

" Extremely detailed and thought out. Story of an English sailor shipwrecked on Japan and his assimilation into the culture of the time. Read anything by James Clavell. "

" haven't finished it yet. So far, it can be a bit confusing keeping all the characters straight, but I'm really enjoying the way the author travels from one character's thoughts to the next character. Its often seamless. "

" I read this book thirty years ago (yikes I'm old!) and it's such a neat introduction to history in the 1500s. I love the clash of the Western and Eastern cultures. Barbarians and Samurai forever! "

" Amazing- totally captured me from the first page. "

" It's my Mom's favourite book. She recommended it to me and I loved it too! "

" Tolles Abenteuer mit Spannung, Informationen und einer umfangreichen Szenerie. Die frühen Tage der langsamen Entdeckung Japans und danach in einer mitreißenden Art und Weise dargestellt.Alles was das Leserherz begehrt. Liest sich gut. "