Rating: 
Summary: NO SURRENDER
Review: When I first heard the story about the author of this book I thought "Oh yeah right, this soldier thought the war was still in progress and stayed in the jungle for 30 years!" Well, that is exactly what happened. This book gives the reader an interesting insight into the mentality of WW II Japanese soldiers. I used to think that the Japanese soldiers of WWII were a bunch of nuts who fought to the death rather than surrender. However, I learned this is how they were raised and to them it was an honor to die in battle or commit suicide but a disgrace to be taken captive. Lt.Onoda was ordered by a superior officer to take to the jungle and continue the fight against the American troops and told not to NOT commit suicide. It is actually surprising that this soldier did in fact surrender. It is almost beyond my comprehension that this loyal and devoted army officer carried out his duty to his country and emperor for 30 years. This was a fascinating book and very enlightening to see the "other guy's" point of view. If you enjoy first hand adventure stories then this book is for you!
Rating: 
Summary: MUST READ.
Review: You might have heard of the urban legend of the Japanese soldier who lived on an island until the 70's thinking the war was still on. Well its true. One was found on Guam and three on various Phillipine islands.
Lt. Onada was specifically told in 1945 to hold the fort and the Japanese navy will be back shortly as the US marines advanced on the island.
Onada and three others lived this for many years. The other groups of Japanese soldiers on the island were slowly captured or shot. Finally in 1951 they were the last 4. Two died over the years as they lived in temporary lean to's and shelters waiting for the arrival of the navy to liberate them. They created a whole world in there circle of a Asian pact group of countries fighting the Americans. Search parties looking for them included brothers and parents. The soldiers knew they had been captured of tricked into ferreting the hiding soldiers out. Finally in 1970 the only other soldier died when shot by local police in a shoot out with the soldiers. Finally in 1974 Lt. Onada came across a Japanese youngster who was camping on the island looking for him. The problem was his existence was in question (kind of like Bigfoot) and the camper took his picture to the Japanese press. He was finally met by a senior officer who was still alive and realized his entire adult life had been a ruse. Incredibly touching and thought provoking.
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