This collection of columns on teaching English as a Second Language in Japan appeared on the English education page of a Japanese English-language newspaper over a period of almost 4 years. Article topics include these: principles of second language learning; differences between language skills; standards of usage; avoiding stereotypes; school politics; trends in Japan; the language of language teaching; motivating students; peer evaluation; judging speech contests; textbook selection; avoiding burnout; teaching as job vs. profession; teacher training and qualifications; attending professional conferences; professional isolation; classroom techniques; classroom communication; the teacher's role and the learner's role; large classes; useful class activities and exercises; memorization; grading; working with assistant teachers; team teaching; cultural issues and culture shock; finding a teaching job; and the need for vacations. Each article is accompanied by a summary in Japanese. Five book reviews are also included. (MSE)