The Japanese writer Ibuse Masuji (1898–1993) became famous for his best known work: Kuroi Ame (Black Rain), on the tragic outcome of the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima. Czech-Canadian japanologist Antonín Líman has already written a number of essays on Ibuse. The present book, Ibuse Masuji:A Century Remembered, provides a well-informed bio-critical study of the Japanese writer and an interpretation of his work written in a lively, creative, and highly personal manner. It is characteristic of Líman to concentrate on issues behind the scenes – on topography, customs and rituals – and through them to give a vivid picture of the famous writer and his world. Líman touches on many different aspects, blends several genres, and is always very personal, much involved, lively, interestingand enjoyable.