First published in the United States in 1950, the play is a realistic portrayal of life in the Japanese Imperial Army during the late 1930's. The book is based on the author's own experiences during the three years he served as a private in China (author Tasaki, raised in Hawaii, wrote the book in English). The book details the rites ingrained in the soldiers, demanding sacrifice and unquestioning obedience to superior officers. Scenes include the burning of Chinese villages, harsh beatings of the First Year Soldiers by those with more seniority, and unrestrained pillaging. Long the Imperial Way remains one of the few books which provide insight into the experiences of the typical Japanese soldier in the period just prior to World War Two.