This is a complicated tale of greed, corruption, and madness set in the world of 1995 Japan with flashbacks to the end of WWII as the atomic bomb is dropped on Hiroshima.
Of course, it doesn’t hurt that author Barry Lancet had years of publishing experience behind him, as well as years of living in Japan before he began writing his Jim Brodie thrillers. He had an insider’s advantage navigating the choppy waters of approach letters, choosing a literary agent, and a clear knowledge of what worked on the page. This and his deep appreciation of Japanese arts and culture must have presented an irresistible formula for writing novels to anyone so inclined.
In August of 1998, we moved to Japan to build the Universal Studios Japan theme park in Osaka. Prior to our move, we had hosted six Japanese students in our home. One of the perks of living there was the opportunity to see our ‘kids.’
I feel very certain that had I not visited Miyazawa-san that morning, he would have died.
On the other hand, I also wonder whether it might not have been better had he died, as he is today a nervous wreck, unable to function normally, with a fear of books, magazines and newspapers that is beyond the ken of normal understanding.
I am a big fan of Naomi Hirahara’s writing for many reasons. She is able to bring to life a wonderful unassuming hero in Mas Arai. Reading her books immerses the reader in the richness of a bit of Japanese culture. She always brings to life a setting that is probably new to most—in Strawberry Yellow, Watsonville, California, and the strawberry industry.
Living in this homely and secluded town called Reedley gives one the illusion that the world is small and simple. In only ten minutes one can get to the market, the local park, or the one “hectic” street that has enough restaurants to fulfill the needs of every town member. Everything is at arm’s reach. With a single walk around the block, a person can spot the favorite teacher she had as a child, the elderly dog that was once filled with robust energy, and three neighbors that she greets daily.
