The premise of the book states that this is a story about two people, spending the night together (awake) in an empty apartment before they say goodbye, and both of…
Fish Swimming in Dappled Sunlight by Riku Onda
Murder at Mt. Fuji by Shizuko Natsuki
Another great read for Women in Translation Month! This book from 1982 hooked me and I finished it super quickly. I really enjoyed it. It’s a classic murder mystery thriller…
Mild Vertigo by Mieko Kanai
Formally experimental at times, this book is a beautiful stream of consciousness narrative of a Tokyo housewife. Her “ladies who lunch” group and their rivalries, her neighbours and their dramas,…
Four Japanese Novella Recommendations – Easy Reads
Japanese literature is known for its ability to capture deep emotions, unique perspectives, and delicate storytelling within short, impactful novellas. If you’re looking for a few brief but immersive reads,…
The Guest Cat by Takashi Hiraide
Last review of the year! This was a really sweet & short book. Constructed as a series of vignettes, this story maps out how a visiting cat transforms a young…
Hardboiled, Hard Luck by Banana Yoshimoto
Two beautiful stories in one! What a great double bill. These tender stories are about grief, love, and connection. The first one is about a woman’s meditative and supernatural night…
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
I can’t believe I hadn’t read this one before! It’s a surreal and though-provoking gem. I really enjoyed this book and the premise: one woman’s journey to her own kind…
The Woman in the Purple Skirt by Natsuko Imamura
I read this pretty much in a day! It’s one of those “atmosphere” short novels that leaves a taste in your mouth, or an impression, but without a clear sense…
The Premonition by Banana Yoshimoto
I’d heard the hype around Yoshimoto’s book Kitchen, so was excited to give this author a try! The writing is exquisite, I love the character, and the set-up is great…