Wednesday, 1 April 2020

Book Review: The Book of Tea by Okakura Kakuzo (Modern Classic)

Title: The Book of Tea
Author: Okakura Kazuko
Publisher: Penguin Classics

Publication Date: 2016 (1906)
Pages:
109
Format:
Paperback
Genre:
Modern Classic
Source:
Bought Copy

 


'Meanwhile, let us have a sip of tea. The afternoon glow is brightening the bamboos, the fountains are bubbling with delight, the soughing of the pines is heard in our kettle.'

In this charming book from 1906, Okakura explores Zen, Taoism, Tea Masters and the significance of the Japanese tea ceremony. 


The Book of Tea was a sweet, quick and interesting read. I was fascinated to learn how the tea ceremony relates to Taoism and Zen, and how tea preparation has changed over time. The book also makes a little (deserved) dig at Western misunderstanding of Japanese culture at the turn of the twentieth century. Perfect for those interested in Japanese culture and history or tea fanatics.

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