The Japan Society
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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. 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.

Abroad in Japan

Books

Abroad in Japan

By Chris Board Abroad in Japan charts a decade of living in a foreign land and the chaos and culture clash that came with it. Review by Cameron Bassindale

Manga, Murder and Mystery - The Boy Detectives of Japan’s Lost Generation

Books

Manga, Murder and Mystery - The Boy Detectives of Japan’s Lost Generation

By Okabe Mimi An academic tome to its core, Manga, Murder and Mystery is nevertheless a thrillingly accessible read that will delight fans of its subject matter, as well as those coming to it through a passing interest in Japan in general, or detective fiction as a wider oeuvre. Review by Laurence Green

The Country Where Turtles Cry: Climate and Poetry of Japan

Books

The Country Where Turtles Cry: Climate and Poetry of Japan

By Nakanishi Susumu In The Country Where Turtles Cry: Climate and Poetry of Japan, Nakanishi focuses on different aspects and forms of Japanese traditional poetry, from waka (the original word for Japanese poem) to tanka (short poems) and haiku, sharing insights about its history and cultural influence in Japan and beyond. Review by Renae Lucas-Hall

Dragon Palace

Books

Dragon Palace

By 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

Finger Bone

Books

Finger Bone

By 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

Longing and Other Stories

Books

Longing and Other Stories

By 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

Sankyu Japan: Twittering thanks to Japan

Books

Sankyu Japan: Twittering thanks to Japan

By 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

Umui: A Journey Across Okinawa

Books

Umui: A Journey Across Okinawa

By 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

Origami and Kirigami for the Home

Books

Origami and Kirigami for the Home

By 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

Origami From Surface To Form

Books

Origami From Surface To Form

By 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