Contemporary Japanese Literature
In the recent years, a lot of Asian, contemporary books with pretty covers have been popping up. While at first I was tempted to read some of them (and did so) exactly because of their exterior, I soon realized that, in certain cases, the cover was the only good part, for their written work unfortunately felt quite mediocre.
In this post I recommend a short selection of contemporary Japanese fiction that actually offer more than cute fronts—stories with layers, depth and originality!
The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yōko Ogawa
A housekeeper is hired to take care of a mathematician, whose recollection capacities have decreased after an accident: his short-time memory lasts eighty minutes before resetting. Thus, every day they introduce themselves anew. Despite this issue, his brain's ability to function has not ceased entirely, especially when it comes to problem-solving and equations. Over time, the housekeeper and her young son form a relationship with the old man, augmenting their bond progressively, while being introduced into his fascinating world—this of numbers.
The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa
This book revolves around Satoru and his cat Nana. We first follow the beginning of their relationship—how they get to meet and under which circumstances. After Nana has accepted to be a domestic cat, the years unfold. Eventually, the day comes when Satoru decides to take a trip with his van and pay several visits to people he hasn't seen for a while. This becomes an adventurous journey for the pair, during which they get to enjoy the outdoors and spend time together, even if they don't share the same language. It's a story about devotion, human-animal bond and loyalty.
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
Keiko is a convenience store worker, who has found her place in the world, or at least feels she has. She doesn't question her choices much, but feels safe in the repetitiveness and stability that her every-day life offers her. Nevertheless, the people from her social circle try to convince her that it's finally time to "move on" by upgrading her career and getting married. Ultimately, she tries to quiet the noise around her by taking certain actions, influenced by the constant "advice" she receives, despite her not asking for any.
Goodnight Tokyo by Atsuhiro Yoshida
This book tells different stories that always take place in Tokyo during the night. We follow several curious people, in some cases completely strangers to each other, who share, though, a common acquaintance: Matsui, a night-shift taxi driver. We meet Matsuki—a prop procurer, Kanako—a call center operator, Moriizumi, who at night collects and gets rid of telephone lines and machinery that are no longer in use, Ibaragi—an antique shop owner, and more. Their lives eventually interconnect in diverse ways, like invisible strings guided by coincidence or fate.
Note: No AI was used to write this post. Only my partner's valuable help to spot little mistakes.