Offering a glimpse into the thrilling era of feudal Japan, The Master Puppeteer presents a captivating mystery centered around a Robin Hood-like figure named Saburo. Saburo is known for his clever tactics in robbing the wealthy while outsmarting and humiliating the authorities. The story's tension revolves around the ongoing questions of when and where this enigmatic character will make his next move, and uncovering his true identity.

While the culture depicted in The Master Puppeteer is vastly different from contemporary American society, it surprisingly shares some similarities. The impoverished characters must rely on their own resources in a desperate fight to survive, establish a personal code of ethics, and achieve a small measure of dignity. In some respects, the chaotic, ronin-filled streets of 18th-century Osaka are not unlike the more troubled areas of many modern American cities. The young protagonist's quest for success mirrors the experiences of many American youths.