The Japan Society Review
The Japan Society Review is an digital publication covering Japan-related books and films, as well as theatre and stage productions, tv series and exhibitions. Published since 2006, it is released now on a quarterly basis and is available online on our website and printed for members. 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.
To become a reviewer, please fill the form here and let us know a little about you, your professional or academic background, your interest, passion or expertise regarding Japan and the type of works you would like to review.
If you have any questions, please contact reviews@japansociety.org.uk.
Books
Dragon PalaceBy Kawakami Hiromi Dragon Palace is a collection of eight short stories, set in wildly different times and settings, by the celebrated author of Strange Weather in Tokyo. Review by Cameron Bassindale
Books
Finger BoneBy Takahashi Hiroki Finger Bone is a war novel, but it is also a story of an individual man, and the lives of those that pass fleetingly around him in the worst of all possible circumstances. Review by Laurence Green
Books
Longing and Other StoriesBy Tanizaki Junichiro In this book, Tanizaki Junichiro, one of the most distinguished Japanese writers of the twentieth century, shares three compelling tales that delve into the complexities of family life. Review by Laurence Green
Books
Sankyu Japan: Twittering thanks to JapanBy Paul Madden In this highly inventive book, Paul Madden maximises his extensive and varied experiences in Japan to provide a unique and, for many, fascinating series of insights into Japanese scenery, history, life and culture. Review by Ra Mason
Books
Umui: A Journey Across OkinawaBy Everett Kennedy Brown This book takes readers on an immersive exploration of Okinawa, capturing the essence of its resilient spirit and unveiling the profound cultural significance of the term umui. Review by Renae Lucas-Hall
Books
Origami and Kirigami for the HomeBy Wei You A colourful guide to creating decorative pieces for the home, parties and events alongside ideas for presents, cards and gift wrapping. Review by Tung Ken Lam
Books
Origami From Surface To FormBy Tung Ken Lam In this dense little pocket book, leading paper folder Tung Ken Lam tells the story of origami, from its historic origins to its use in mathematics, medicine and the kitchen. Review by Robin Macey
Books
Iro. The essence of Colour in Japanese DesignBy Rossella Menegazzo A complex jigsaw of Japanese culture, colour and design, this book explores Japanese design as seen through the lens of traditional colour spectrum. Review by David Tonge
Books
Inside Your Japanese Garden: A Guide to Creating a Unique Japanese Garden for your HomeBy Sadao Yasumoro and Joseph Cali I was introduced to Sadao Yasumoro in Tokyo a few months ago, when he gave me this book. On that day, he was directing work at the site of a new garden project in Naka-Meguro, before taking a group of us to visit some of his completed garden projects (two of which are featured in this book). Review by Katie Croft
Books
The HoleBy Oyamada Hiroko 'The Hole' further develops Oyamada's trademark bizarreness, combining the precision and mundanity of daily life with the fantastical and incomprehensible to a suitably confusing effect. Review by Alex Russell