The Japan Society Review
The Japan Society Review is published on a bimonthly basis, both online and printed (members are entitled to receive a copy by post). Since the starting of the publication in 2006, each issue covers a selection of Japan-related books and films, as well as theatre and stage productions, tv series and exhibitions. Its purpose is to inform, entertain and encourage readers to explore the works for themselves.
The Japan Society Review is possible thanks to the work of volunteers who dedicated their time and expertise to help us to promote the learning and understanding of Japanese culture and society.
Issues (PDF)
Issue 97 (February 2022, Volume 17, Number 1)This issue of The Japan Society Review marks the opening of an exciting new year of Japan-related books, films and events. In 2022 this publication will reach a landmark 100 issues, an inspiring moment in our ongoing mission to celebrate the vibrancy and variety of Japanese culture, history, politics and much more.
Books
Fish Swimming In Dappled SunlightBy Onda Riku Time and again, Onda Riku forces us to confront the ugly truths behind the questions: Who are we really? What drives us to act the way we do? And can we ever know the inner thoughts of another? Review by Laurence Green
Books
Of Arcs and Circles: Insights from Japan on Gardens, Nature, and ArtBy Marc Peter Keane From his vantage point as a garden designer and writer based in Kyoto, Marc Peter Keane examines the world around him and delivers astonishing insights through an array of narratives. Review by Katie Croft
Books
The Wagamama Bride: A Jewish Family Saga Made in JapanBy Liane Grunberg Wakabayashi This compelling and insightful memoir reads like a classic love story full of trials and tribulations. Liane Grunberg Wakabayashi’s spiritual journey in Japan from secular to orthodox Judaism is a reflection on transformation, relationships, family values, finding happiness, and being true to oneself. Review by Renae Lucas-Hall
Issues (PDF)
Issue 96 (December 2021, Volume 16, Number 6)The last issue of The Japan Society Review in 2021 presents six reviews of books which focus on different aspects of Japan, from its history to anthropology and textile design.
Books
Murakami T: The T-Shirts I LoveBy Murakami Haruki Murakami T: The T-Shirts I Love is an ode to that most humble item of clothing, as the author takes us through a selection of some of the favourites from his own personal wardrobe Review by Laurence Green
Books
An Affair with a VillageBy Joy Hendry This book is a heart-warming, funny, informative and highly personal love letter to Kurotsuchi, the small village in Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyushu that anthropologist Joy Hendry first visited in 1975 to undertake a year of fieldwork whilst during her time as a PhD student at Oxford University. Review by Alice French
Books
NUNO: Visionary Japanese TextilesBy Sudo Reiko This luxurious large format book, bound in NUNO fabric, is encyclopaedic in both content and weight and is a fitting celebration of the work of one of Japan’s most innovative and respected textile design studios. Review by David Tonge
Books
Toward Creation of a New World HistoryBy Haneda Masashi Professor Haneda’s book is a very important addition to de-westernise World History as a subject, which so far is still too heavily western-centric despite all its good intentions. Review by Francesco Cioffo
Books
Japan StoriesBy Jayne Joso This collection of short stories, some of them illustrated by Japanese Manga artist NAMIKO, revolves around the main characters’ loneliness taking many shapes and forms. Review by Eleonora Faina