Stephen Turnbull took his first degree at Cambridge University, and received a PhD from Leeds University for his work on Japanese religious history. He has traveled extensively in Europe and the Far East and also runs a well-used picture library. His work has been recognized by the awarding of the Canon Prize of the British Association for Japanese Studies and a Japan Festival Literary Award. He currently divides his time between lecturing in Japanese Religion at the University of Leeds and writing.
This intriguing book is an outstanding introduction to fortifications and siege warfare in Asia over 20 centuries. In addition, it offers suggestions and advice for those interested in seeing these city walls for themselves, as tourism in China has opened so much in recent times. For those interested in fortifications beyond the European culture, this book is highly recommended. Bolling Smith, Coast Defense Journal (March 2010) This is one of the best books in the series on the Orient. J.E. Kaufmann, Site O, www.siteo.net (July 2009) The book covers the complete design and implementation of styles and shows how the various works were modified or improved to meet the needs of the areas in which they were placed... All of this is additionally enhanced by photos of the current sites, period art work and the illustrations of Steve Noon. Though some of the fortifications are either gone or inaccessible, many are still extant and those areas are shown and discussed. In all, a superb addition to the Fortress series and a book that I believe you will find interesting. Scott Van Aken, www.modelingmadness.com (August 2009)