Brimming with sly witticisms and intimate observations, The Pillow Book was written in 10th century Japan by a courtesan to Empress Teishi. A contemporary of Lady Murasaki Shikibu (author of The Tale of Genji, regarded as the world's first novel), Sei Shonagon recorded personal anecdotes, accounts of historical events, and even poetic reflections on nature. With sixteen pages of full-color prints from original illustrations, this charming diary is a lovely journey into Heian-period Japan.