Question 1

Is A Gentleman from Japan a sequel to Shōgun?

Accepted Answer

It's been described as the unofficial prequel to Shōgun. A Gentleman from Japan tells the true story of a Japanese man who journeyed to Queen Elizabeth I's court in 1588 — a real, documented encounter that predates the fictional world of Shōgun and sheds light on the first connections between Japan and the West.

Question 2

Where can I buy the books or listen to the audiobooks?

Accepted Answer

Both A Gentleman from Japan and African Samurai are available in hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook. Each book's page lists every retailer — including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Apple Books, and Audible — so you can choose your preferred format and region.

Question 3

Are these stories true, or historical fiction?

Accepted Answer

Both are works of narrative nonfiction, grounded in archival research across multiple continents and languages. Thomas pieces together the documentary evidence to reconstruct real lives and real journeys — no invented dialogue or events — while telling them in a vivid, accessible style.

Question 4

How do I invite Thomas to speak at an event?

Accepted Answer

Thomas is available for keynotes, panels, university lectures, and literary festivals worldwide. Use the contact form on this site and include the event name, date, location, audience, and topic. For rights and media enquiries, please reach out through the appropriate literary agent.

Question 5

Does Thomas accept unsolicited manuscripts or book proposals?

Accepted Answer

No. Thomas does not accept unsolicited manuscripts or book proposals directly. All professional submissions and rights enquiries must go through his literary agents — Tuttle-Mori Agency in Tokyo and Ultra Literary in New York. See the Literary Agents page for contact details and submission guidelines.

Reader Suggestions