Books: Japan through a literary kaleidoscope

Originality is seldom found in books relating to literary history -- writers and critics are content in most instances to assume a subservient role in relation to the authors they are examining. More often than not, scholarly or portentous content obviates the need for a fresh design approach or lively language.

But a quick sampling of Richard Nathan's new book, "Kaleidoscope Japan: A nation through the lens of literature" hints at a very different approach. With chapter names such as "Grim Tales: Primitive Trolls," "The Chick Lit of Ancient Japan," "Eating Disorders," "Japan, and Whodunnit: Detective Fiction's Sudden Death," you sense a powerful shift to a different terrain, teasing the reader with a playful mix of the innovative and erudite.