This book unfolds the extraordinary, heartwarming tale of Keiko Furukura, a 36-year-old Tokyo resident, a strange character who is strange but sweet, weird but lovable, and imperfect but still perfect in ways that we cannot comprehend. At its core, it pays homage to individuals often overlooked or deemed “ordinary” by society.
Asian Literature
“Ms Ice Sandwich,” is a captivating Japanese novella translated by Louise Heal Kawai. The story follows a young narrator mesmerized by a mysterious sandwich vendor with electric blue eyelids. This enchanting tale explores the thrill of childhood crushes, unbreakable friendships, and the poignant bonds of family, capturing the magic of growing up.
In ‘Diary of an Expat in Singapore,’ Gargiulo’s witty narrative navigates the bustling streets of the Lion City, immersing readers in its rich culture, tantalizing cuisine, and the everyday quirks of expatriate existence. From navigating the nuances of Singlish to indulging in mouthwatering hawker fare, Gargiulo’s keen observations and self-deprecating humor offer a delightful glimpse into the unique experiences of expatriate life.
Numair Atif Choudhury’s “Taxi Wallah and Other Stories” unveils Dhaka’s intricacies, navigating the city’s class divisions. Through raw, succinct narratives, Choudhury paints vivid portraits of characters grappling with societal inequalities, exposing the poignant struggles that often go unnoticed in the bustling metropolis.
In ‘Human Acts,’ the poignant aftermath of Gwangju’s 1980 uprising unfolds in visceral tales of survival and loss. Dong Ho’s mother grapples with profound grief, prisoners endure unspeakable tortures, a publisher confronts relentless censorship, and a lost soul seeks solace. Interwoven narratives expose the enduring scars etched by rebellion, painting a haunting portrait of resilience and the human spirit.
“Dark Star” unveils the silent struggles of a gifted woman in Punjab, shackled by a lifetime of male dominance. Once cherished for her psychic sight, she now lies alone, powerless, and forgotten, yearning to share her untold stories before the shadows of her past consume her. A tale of resilience and lost dreams.
Strange Weather in Tokyo follows Tsukiko’s unexpected encounter with her former high school teacher at a sake bar. Their meetings persist, marked by conversations, edamame, cold beer, and a remarkable trip to the mountains for wild mushrooms. As seasons shift, their connection transcends companionship. Amidst spring and autumn, Tsukiko realizes the profound and meaningful solace she finds in Sensei’s company, leading to an evolving bond that defies expectations.
Breasts and Eggs offers a compelling depiction of the modern female experience in Japan, delving into the personal odysseys of three women as they navigate societal pressures and confront their own inner struggles in pursuit of genuine contentment and self-determined destinies. The narrative revolves around Natsu, a thirty-year-old woman, her elder sister Makiko, and Makiko’s daughter, Midoriko.