PROJECT KAISEI, by Michiro Naito. Indiana: 1stBooks Library, 2003, 321 pp., $19.95 (paper). THE INUGAMI CLAN, by Seishi Yokomizo, translated by Yumiko Yamazaki. Tuttle Shokai Inc., 2003, 300 pp., $14.95 (paper).

Unless the dire warnings of electric power shortages that were raised earlier this summer suddenly prove true, let's assume you are reading this review by incandescent light.

Nevertheless, that Tokyo's power utility was able to cover up its nuclear generator cracks -- leading to their prolonged shutdown while they undergo safety checks -- easily begs the question as to how hard would it be for Japan to conceal development of nuclear weapons.

Of course, secrecy might no longer be warranted. The imminent prospect of a nuclear-armed North Korea has once again led politicians here to raise the issue of Japan's developing nuclear weapons, its peace constitution and so-called "nuclear allergy" notwithstanding.