This book is a valuable addition to any library, especially for those interested in Japanese prose. The diary and poetic memoirs of Murasaki Shikibu provide a glimpse into the life of a woman who lived in Japan during the 11th century. The book is a trade paperback published by Princeton University Press in 1982 and is part of the Princeton Library of Asian Translations Ser. series. With 290 pages, this book is a great resource for adults and those interested in further education. The book is written in English and is at an intermediate level. It is compact, measuring 6.5 inches in length, 9.5 inches in height, and 1 inch in width. The book weighs 2 pounds and has an ISBN-10 of 0691014167. This book is a must-have for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.