Japanese books
The Memory Police
What is The Memory Police about?
On an unnamed island, some objects, such as ribbons or roses, periodically disappear from collective memory. A novelist is hiding her editor (who retains memories) from the authorities. It's a reflection on loss, memory, and totalitarianism — definitely a worthy read if you like science fiction and dystopia.
Kafka on the Shore
What is Kafka on the Shore about?
"Kafka on the Shore" is a psychological thriller written by a famous Japanese writer. It is a story where reality is intertwined with the world of perfume, where mythical characters act and help Kafka-Tamura. But the main idea is that a person does not choose their fate; fate chooses a person. Only when you plunge headlong into this intricate story do you realize that all accidents are not accidental.
Awakening Your Ikigai
What is Awakening Your Ikigai about?
Awakening Your Ikigai by Ken Mogi navigates readers through the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, which can be interpreted as "your reason to get up in the morning." Embrace Ikigai through small moments of daily joy by accepting yourself and achieving harmony and sustainability. Mogi provides a guide to finding your Ikigai by drawing inspiration from Japanese history, modern culture, and stories from celebrities.
Before the Coffee Gets Cold
What is Before the Coffee Gets Cold about?
Ever wonder what you’d say if you could travel back in time for just as long as your coffee stays warm? In a cozy, hidden Tokyo café, customers are given that magical chance, but with a rule: nothing in the present can change. "Before the Coffee Gets Cold" combines the charm of magical realism with heartfelt stories of love, loss, and closure. It is a mixture of “what-ifs” that appear with every sip of coffee.
Convenience Store Woman
What is Convenience Store Woman about?
Keiko has worked at the same convenience store for most of her adult life. She's never really fit in with other people, but working in the store helps her better understand how normal people behave and interact. The author brilliantly examines conformity, societal expectations, and finding purpose through Keiko's literal interpretation of social norms.
Klara and the Sun
What is Klara and the Sun about?
The artificial assistant, Clara, stood in the store window, waiting for her child. Like every robot in this shop, she longed for love and wanted to give it. One day, a wonderful little girl noticed Clara, but something felt off... Read this incredible, heartwarming story about the friendship between a girl and a robot, filled with kindness, love, and sunshine.
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
What is The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up about?
Marie Kondō doesn’t just want you to clean your house — she wants to change your life. Her KonMari method focuses on keeping only what “sparks joy” and letting go of the rest. With a mix of practical tips and philosophical insights, "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" is more than a decluttering guide. You will actually free yourself from unnecessary mess and find real, simple happiness.
Battle Royale
What is Battle Royale about?
The dark dystopian book "Battle Royale" by Japanese author Koushun Takami takes you to Japan, ruled by a fictional fascist government. In order to realize their dictatorial ambitions, the people in power force children to fight each other to the death. Is it possible to survive in this harsh reality and preserve morality, friendship, and love?
Novelist as a Vocation
What is Novelist as a Vocation about?
Written by Haruki Murakami, a best-selling author of "Norwegian Wood" and other famous novels, this book explores what it means to be a writer. Murakami connects his personal insights with practical writing tips, which makes this book so engaging. Both young and seasoned writers can gain a lot of wisdom from "Novelist as a Vocation".
Problem Solving 101
What is Problem Solving 101 about?
Initially a handbook meant for Japanese children, Problem Solving 101 is a brilliant and witty guide to critical thinking. Through exciting real-life scenarios, matrixes, and logic trees, outstanding McKinsey consultant Ken Watanabe offers some unique problem-solving techniques. Whether you can't decide what university to study at or how to increase your company's profits, this book is a perfect read.
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