Takeout Sushi

By Christopher Green 

Neem Tree Press Limited (2024)
ISBN-13: 978-1-915584-31-1

Review by Maxine Stacey 

Takeout Sushi by Christopher Green has to be one of the most joyous reads about everyday life. If I had to summarise this book in one sentence, it would be: Read it - you will not stop laughing. It is one of the best books I have read in the last few years, not only because of its humour, but because of the moments of relatability.  

The book is a collection of seventeen short stories inspired by Green’s experiences in Japan and at other periods of his life. Each story in Takeout Sushi presents a comedic perspective on both familiar situations and stranger, dystopian scenarios. The humour never feels forced; instead, it emerges through the presentation of the awkwardness of everyday encounters, interpersonal relationships and Green’s observations of modern society. The book itself is thoughtfully presented with illustrations separating each chapter, corresponding to the individual stories. 

What I enjoyed most about the book, as someone currently spending three months living and working in Japan, was how the stories encapsulate aspects of life in Japan. From leaving a partner at home while travelling for work to navigating changing relationship dynamics and encountering the technologically advanced robot-society associated with Japan, Green’s stories capture these experiences perfectly. One story within Takeout Sushi also serves as a gentle reminder that we can’t programme computers or robots to do every job under the sun, that a human touch is needed. It touches upon a highly relevant conversation, with the growing exposure and use of AI technology.