Subject
Americans -- Japan -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry W. (Henry Walsworth) Kinney
Broken Butterflies
"Broken Butterflies" by Henry W. Kinney is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Hugh Kent, a man returning to Japan after many years abroad, exploring themes of identity, marriage, and the cultural clash between East and West. As he embarks on this journey, he hopes to rekindle a connection with his estranged wife, Isabel, while navigating his own feelings of disillusionment and the complexities stemming from his past experiences. The opening of the novel captures Hugh Kent’s introspection as he travels on the "Tenyo Maru", musing about his anticipated return to Japan, the country he left at a young age. He reflects on his failed marriage and the stark differences between his dreams and the reality of his relationship with Isabel, who has chosen to remain in America. As Kent approaches the shores of Japan, he encounters various fellow travelers, including Lüttich, a sympathetic Russian, and Miss Suzuki, who evokes curiosity and compassion through her uncertainty about returning to her roots. The vivid imagery and sensitive exploration of cultural identities set the stage for a richly layered narrative that promises emotional depth and reflection on the shifts in societal norms.
Robert Ames Bennet
The Shogun's Daughter
"The Shogun's Daughter" by Robert Ames Bennet is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the mid-19th century and follows the adventures of Worth Adams, a midshipman in the United States Navy, as he embarks on a journey that intertwines with Japanese history and culture during a time of significant change. The novel introduces themes of honor, cultural exchange, and the complexities of identity, alongside a compelling narrative woven through the eyes of its protagonist and his interactions with various characters, including the noble Yoritomo. The opening of the novel establishes Worth Adams as a young midshipman who feels the weight of his stagnating career in the navy and longs for adventure. This longing leads him to take a position aboard the clipper ship "Sea Flight", where he forms a bond with the ship's captain, Downing, who has aspirations to navigate to the Japanese islands. As the ship sets sail towards Kagoshima Bay, the narrative sets the stage for the impending collision of Western and Eastern cultures, as well as the personal discoveries that await Adams. The exploration of familial legacy through references to his ancestor Will Adams, the first Englishman to reach Japan, adds depth to his quest as he seeks to connect with his heritage while navigating the waters between these two disparate worlds.
Onoto Watanna
Sunny-San
"Sunny-San" by Onoto Watanna is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the life and struggles of a young girl named Sunny, the daughter of a famous dancer known as Madame Many Smiles, who has recently passed away. The backdrop of Japanese culture and the complex dynamics between the geisha system and foreign influences create a rich tapestry exploring themes of identity, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness. The opening of "Sunny-San" introduces readers to the somber atmosphere following the death of Madame Many Smiles, casting a shadow over the House of a Thousand Joys. As the titular character, Sunny, navigates her new reality, she is thrust into the spotlight as her mother’s successor amid societal expectations and the looming threat of punishment from Hirata, the house’s master. The narrative unfolds with Sunny's enchanting performance that captivates American students, culminating in a dramatic rescue by them when she faces abuse from Hirata. This sets the stage for Sunny's journey of self-discovery, as she is taken in by her rescuers, leaving behind the painful ties to her past while discovering new possibilities for her future.
Onoto Watanna
The Heart of Hyacinth
"The Heart of Hyacinth" by Onoto Watanna is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of Japan, particularly in the beautiful region of Sendai and the picturesque Matsushima Bay, the narrative intertwines themes of cultural identity, personal struggle, and the complexities of cross-cultural relationships. The story begins with Madame Aoi, a Japanese woman who raises her mixed-race son, Komazawa, and their adopted child, Hyacinth, against a backdrop of sociopolitical changes and the influence of Western culture. The opening portion of the book introduces Aoi's life with her son Komazawa and the adopted girl Hyacinth, revealing their daily existence and the challenges they face. Tragedy strikes when Aoi’s English husband dies, leaving her to navigate her identity as a mother and wife in a transforming society. As Komazawa grows, he grapples with his dual heritage, while Hyacinth, who struggles with her own identity, appears to blend the two cultures. Their lives begin to interweave with the arrival of outsiders, setting the stage for tensions that come from cultural differences and expectations. Through poignant illustrations of their relationships, Watanna captures the essence of longing and belonging in an ever-evolving world.
Onoto Watanna
The Love of Azalea
"The Love of Azalea" by Onoto Watanna is a novel written in the early 20th century." The story revolves around Azalea, a young Japanese girl caught in the throes of cultural conflict, personal tragedy, and romantic turmoil as she navigates life under the strictures of her stepmother and the demands of societal expectations. Her journey leads her to encounter Richard Verley, a missionary who changes the course of her life. "At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to a mission church in a small Japanese village, where the congregation is disinterested in the sermons of the foreign priest, Richard Verley." Amidst this backdrop, Azalea is depicted as a young girl longing for escape from her unkind home life with a stepmother who treats her cruelly. Dressed in rags, Azalea finds herself smitten with the notion of earning money through singing, just like the choir boys who are treated kindly by Verley. This initial longing evolves when she decides to approach the minister, pretending to seek conversion in the hopes of receiving assistance. The opening chapters set the stage for her transformative journey, revealing her desires for freedom and love against the struggles of her impoverished circumstances and the rigid expectations of her society.
Onoto Watanna
Tama
"Tama" by Onoto Watanna is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in Fukui, Japan, and centers around the themes of cultural clash, mystery, and the supernatural, particularly through the character of the enigmatic Fox-Woman. The book delves into Japanese mythology and folklore, exploring the complex relationships between Western and Japanese characters as they navigate a world filled with both charm and danger. At the start of the novel, Fukui anticipates the arrival of a foreign professor, referred to as the "Tojin-san," stirring excitement and apprehension among its citizens. While preparations unfold for his welcome—complete with tales of his dietary needs and the mysterious Fox-Woman stalking the region—whispers of superstition and fear permeate the community. As the Tojin-san struggles against the cultural superstitions surrounding him, he becomes increasingly intrigued by the legend of the Fox-Woman. The opening vividly describes the bustling atmosphere of a transitioning Japan and sets the stage for a tale that intertwines folklore, personal struggle, and the search for understanding across cultural divides.
Walter J. Sheldon
The shrine
"The Shrine" by Walter J. Sheldon is a fantasy novella written in the mid-20th century. The narrative follows Edward Blair, a reporter for the English-language Tokyo Tribune, who reluctantly travels to a remote mountain to interview the monks of the Hataka shrine. The story explores themes of cultural understanding, the nature of reality, and the tension between scientific rationalism and mystical beliefs. As Edward Blair interacts with Naito, the high priest of the shrine, and Yuki, a mysterious young woman, he is drawn into their world of unusual phenomena that challenge his Western perspective. The narrative delves into Blair's skepticism as he dismisses Naito's mystical abilities as mere "magic tricks." However, he slowly begins to comprehend the deeper philosophical implications of Naito's teachings about psychokinesis and the limitations of Western scientific thinking. The encounter with Yuki evokes in him a profound emotional response, culminating in an understanding that transcends his initial cynicism, ultimately leaving him in contemplation about the nature of wisdom and control in a world steeped in mystery. Through this journey, Sheldon skillfully contextualizes a clash of cultures that speaks to the broader human experience.
Onoto Watanna
Tama : $b Japanilainen lemmentarina
"Tama: Japanilainen lemmentarina" by Onoto Watanna is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores themes of cultural exchange and supernatural elements within a historical Japanese setting. The primary narrative revolves around Tojin-san, a foreign professor invited to teach in Fukui, Japan, and the mysterious interactions he has with a local legend known as the "kettu-naine" or fox woman. The opening of the book immerses the reader in the excitement and apprehension surrounding the anticipated arrival of Tojin-san in Fukui. The townspeople, including samurai and servants, prepare for this foreign professor while also fearing the rumored fox woman who haunts the region. As Tojin-san arrives amid snowy landscapes, he contemplates not only his purpose in Japan but also the strange and beautiful allure of the culture surrounding him. The narrative showcases his challenges in navigating Japanese customs, societal expectations, and the looming threat of the enigmatic fox spirit, setting the stage for a captivating exploration of identity and the supernatural as the story unfolds.
Recently surfaced classics