Subject
Japan -- History -- Meiji period, 1868-1912 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Hallie Erminie Rives
The Kingdom of Slender Swords
"The Kingdom of Slender Swords" by Hallie Erminie Rives is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the character Barbara, a young woman navigating her emotional ties to Japan, a land rich with familial history and vibrant culture. As she begins her journey, she is drawn to the beauty of the landscape, her personal connections, and the complex interactions between East and West. The opening of the novel introduces Barbara as she arrives in Japan, filled with anticipation and a sense of wonder about the country that is tied to her family's past. It captures her vivid emotional state as she experiences the beauty of the Japanese coasts and reflects on her deceased parents' history. Her excitement is punctuated by interactions with her uncle, Bishop Randolph, as they discuss her father and the significance of her upcoming visit. As they approach land, Barbara’s internal musings and the lush descriptions establish a sense of place and set the tone for her exploration of identity, connection, and the cultural depths awaiting her in this new world.
Frances Little
Little Sister Snow
"Little Sister Snow" by Frances Little is a novel written in the early 20th century. This poignant tale explores the life of a young Japanese girl named Yuki Chan, highlighting her experiences of childhood innocence, cultural expectations, and the struggles within the confines of her societal duties. The book offers readers a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of Japanese traditions while tackling themes of love, longing, and personal sacrifice. The story follows Yuki Chan as she transitions from a playful, carefree child in a quaint Japanese garden to a young woman facing the weight of adulthood and arranged marriage. As she develops feelings for an American boy, Dick Merrit, who visits her village, she grapples with her burgeoning emotions and the expectations placed upon her by her family and society. Yuki's life is painted with vivid imagery of her surroundings and the rich cultural practices, yet it is also tinged with the challenges of poverty and her desire for personal happiness. Throughout the narrative, Yuki struggles with the tension between her duty to her family and her dreams of love and freedom, making for a touching and reflective read for those interested in historical and cultural contexts.
Frances Little
The Lady of the Decoration
"The Lady of the Decoration" by Frances Little is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story follows a young widow from Kentucky who embarks on a journey to Japan to teach in a mission school, seeking to rebuild her life after the loss of her husband. The narrative, conveyed through a series of letters to her cousin, captures her reflections on her past, her new experiences, and the struggles of adapting to a foreign culture. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the protagonist, who is apprehensive yet eager about her upcoming voyage to Japan. She grapples with feelings of loss, homesickness, and uncertainty about her future. Her correspondence reveals her internal conflict regarding her past life and the expectations placed upon her as a missionary. As the opening unfolds, she describes her journey on the ship, encounters with fellow passengers, and the challenges she faces while transitioning into her new role in Japan. Through her witty and candid observations, the reader gains insight into her character and the historic context of her experiences as a foreigner navigating a new world.
Frances Little
The Lady and Sada San A Sequel to the Lady of the Decoration
"The Lady and Sada San" by Frances Little is a novel written in the early 20th century, serving as a sequel to "The Lady of the Decoration." The story is set primarily in Japan and revolves around the protagonist and narrator, who embarks on a journey to reunite with her husband, Jack, and provide companionship and support to a young Japanese-American girl named Sada San. As the narrative unfolds, the complexities of cultural identity, gender roles, and tenderness in human connections emerge. The opening of the novel introduces the narrator's reflections as she journeys across the Pacific Ocean to Japan in direct defiance of her husband Jack's wishes. She expresses her feelings of discontent and loneliness in his absence while simultaneously plotting to be close to him during his scientific expedition. Amidst her reflections, she meets Sada San, a half American, half Japanese girl who has high hopes of returning to her roots in Japan. Sada's backstory is revealed through the narrator’s observations, highlighting her innocence and the harsh realities she is set to face upon her return. The narrator’s heartfelt concern for Sada's future, especially regarding her uncle’s intentions for her, hints at the unfolding drama and the cultural clashes that will define the narrative ahead.
Frances Little
Lumihiutale : $b (Little Sister Snow)
"Lumihiutale (Little Sister Snow)" by Frances Little is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in Japan, it follows Yuki (“Juki”) from mischievous childhood into young womanhood as she navigates filial duty, poverty, an arranged marriage, and a tender cross‑cultural bond with an American, Richard Merrit. The story explores tradition versus change, everyday domestic ritual, and the pull between Buddhist upbringing and Christian ideas introduced by foreigners. The opening of this novel paints a vivid spring morning where little Juki plays beneath a plum tree, gets into mischief, and—after a dramatic scuffle over a bird and a cat—meets the American boy Dick Merrit, who stops her from throwing the cat into a canal and wins her trust. A chapter on the Doll Festival introduces her modest home, loving but aging parents, and the origins of her name (born in snow), emphasizing maternal devotion and Buddhist piety. Twelve years later, Yuki returns from a mission school, shouldering household burdens amid growing poverty while social custom prevents her from working; her father arranges her marriage to the well‑placed Saito. A letter arrives from Richard, now grown, asking to lodge with her family, which brings money and joy; Yuki prepares the house and hosts him for two happy months of language lessons and gentle flirtation. In a tender farewell scene—goldfish fed, a butterfly warmed, and a brief talk about God versus Buddha—Richard departs for home, leaving Yuki quietly heart‑sore but resolute. The section closes as she turns to preparations for her first meeting with Saito.
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