In this compelling survey, art historian Andreas Marks traces the development of Japanese illustrated books in premodern times. As early as the 17th century, Japanese publishers were producing thousands of illustrated titles on subjects ranging from religion and poetry to celebrated beauties, famous kabuki actors, farting warriors, and adventure tales. This flourishing book culture laid the foundation for the vibrant manga and comics industry of today.

Marks explores this evolution through five key works, including:

• Kitagawa Utamaro's Illustrated Book of Selected Creatures (1788) -- a beautifully illustrated collection of plants and animals paired with poetry.
• Hokusai's Sketchbooks (early 1800s) -- featuring hundreds of innovative drawing and design ideas by Katsushika Hokusai, whose work influenced many renowned European artists.
• The New Illustrated Water Margin -- Hokusai's adaptation of a Chinese novel about a band of fictional heroes with superpowers, offering a bold reimagining of the story.
• The Tale of Shiranui (1849 - 1910) -- an adventure novel serialized over six decades.
• The early-20th-century Current Affairs Manga -- the first periodical to use the word "manga" in its title, providing illustrated commentary on contemporary political events.