Less than one tenth of the active repertory of kabuki plays have been translated from Japanese into English. The four-volume set begins to correct the deficiency, choosing plays that are being performed now; have not been previously translated; have exciting stories and charismatic characters; are theatrical on stage; and represent major playwrights, chronological periods, play types, and performance styles. The 12 plays of the second volume are from the cities of Edo and Osaka during the Anei, Tenmei, and Kansei periods of Japanese history. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)