Lesley Downer's The Brothers offers an engrossing look into the Tsutsumi family, Japan's wealthiest and most secretive dynasty. The narrative spans the rise of patriarch Yasujiro Tsutsumi from humble beginnings to amassing a vast empire, including railways, hotels, and golf courses. His sons, Seiji and Yoshiaki, inherit different portions of the fortune, leading to a complex family saga filled with ambition, rivalry, and intrigue.

Downer's meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring to life the intricate dynamics of the Tsutsumi family and the broader socio-economic changes in post-war Japan. The book delves into themes of power, legacy, and the personal costs of immense wealth. While some critics have noted a tendency towards speculative narrative, the book's depth and insight into Japanese culture and business practices are commendable.

For readers interested in understanding the forces shaping modern Japan, The Brothers provides a compelling and informative account. It's a testament to the complexities of family, fortune, and the pursuit of power in a rapidly changing world.