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Japanese Fiction

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New York - Thryft
Edward Rutherfurd | Century

New York

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Imagine being swept through the ages with intimate portraits of people who've shaped New York's heartbeat. Edward Rutherfurd's "New York" is a masterful journey linking personal stories and historical events, serving as a metaphor for the American experience itself. It's not just a read; it lets you live through the evolution of America's most iconic city. If you're fascinated by how individual lives intersect with grand historical narratives, this book is a portal through time.
The Turtle Catcher
Nicole Helget | Harper Perennial

The Turtle Catcher

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.53

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

84% off est. retail
"The Turtle Catcher" could be a captivating choice if you're drawn to historical drama that resonates with the present. Nicole Lea Helget deftly weaves the struggles of German immigrants during WWI with a compelling, intimate exploration of forbidden relationships and the desperate longing for human connection, setting it all against a rich American backdrop. The visceral depiction of characters haunted by profound family secrets offers a deep, emotional journey that could linger with you long after the final page.
Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup
Roddy Doyle | Vintage Books Usa

Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.28

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

80% off est. retail
If you relish historical fiction teeming with wit, Roddy Doyle's "Oh, Play That Thing" will transport you to 1920s America alongside the clever, cheeky Henry Smart. Doyle weaves a captivating narrative blending adventure, crime, and music—jazz becomes Henry's baptism into a new world. A pilgrimage through a vividly drawn era, with a soundtrack by none other than Louis Armstrong, awaits you in these pages.
Sucking Shrimp
Stephanie Theobald | Flame

Sucking Shrimp

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 2.67

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

72% off est. retail
"Sucking Shrimp" offers an eclectic mix that might intrigue you if you're into vibrant storytelling with a touch of eccentricity. Stephanie Theobald crafts a narrative that threads the needle between offbeat humor and the strange allure of a foreign culture, all while toying with the idea of madness. It's a literary dish with a spice that could just captivate your palate.
The Makioka Sisters
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Jun'ichirō Tanizaki, Edward G. Seidensticker  | Vintage

The Makioka Sisters

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90

71% off est. retail
"The Makioka Sisters" is as much a cultural tapestry as it is a novel, offering a nuanced peek into the complexities of a bygone era in Japan. Tanizaki's delicate portrayal of four sisters navigating their fading elite status amidst societal change is both fascinating and emotionally rich. If you savor historical depth and intricate character studies wrapped in eloquent prose, this novel promises to be an enchanting dive into the intimate and the epic.
The Garden of Evening Mists
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Tan Twan Eng | Canongate Canons

The Garden of Evening Mists

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

69% off est. retail
If you're drawn to narratives that blend the personal with historical complexities, "The Garden of Evening Mists" could captivate you. Tan Twan Eng crafts a world where the beauty of a Japanese garden in Malaysia serves as the backdrop for a haunting exploration of war and remembrance. It's a novel that not only delves into the aftermath of conflict but also celebrates the redemptive power of creating something enduring. Perfect for readers looking for depth, poetic prose, and a poignant look at how we rebuild in the wake of loss.
Mina's Matchbox
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Yōko Ogawa, Stephen Snyder  | Harvill Secker

Mina's Matchbox

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$9.90

"Mina's Matchbox" would resonate with you if you've ever faced major life changes, especially as a child. Yoko Ogawa's storytelling gently immerses you into Tomoko's world, drawing you into the experiences of loss, adaptation, and discovery. The quaint backdrop of Ashiya with its colonial mansion and unexpected pet hippo adds a layer of wonder, making Tomoko's transformative year one you'll likely find both nostalgic and heartwarming.
The Great Reclamation
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Rachel Heng | Riverhead Books

The Great Reclamation

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$16.90

Set against a changing Singapore, a sweeping novel about one boy's unique gifts and the childhood love that will complicate the fate of his community and country. Ah Boon is born into a fishing village amid the heat and beauty of twentieth-century coastal Singapore in the waning years of British rule. He is a gentle boy who is not much interested in fishing, preferring to spend his days playing with the neighbor girl, Siok Mei. But when he discovers he has the unique ability to locate bountiful, movable islands that no one else can find, he feels a new sense of obligation and possibility—something to offer the community and impress the spirited girl he has come to love. By the time they are teens, Ah Boon and Siok Mei are caught in the tragic sweep of history: the Japanese army invades, the resistance rises, grief intrudes, and the future of the fishing village is in jeopardy. As the nation hurtles toward rebirth, the two friends, newly empowered, must decide who they want to be, and what they are willing to give up. An aching love story and powerful coming-of-age that reckons with the legacy of British colonialism, the World War II Japanese occupation, and the pursuit of modernity, The Great Reclamation confronts the wounds of progress, the sacrifices of love, and the difficulty of defining home when nature and nation collide, literally shifting the land beneath people's feet.
The Narrow Road to the Deep North
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Richard Flanagan | Vintage

The Narrow Road to the Deep North

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90

52% off est. retail
Flanagan's "The Narrow Road to the Deep North" speaks to more than just historical fiction aficionados; it's a poignant narrative for anyone intrigued by the profound effects of war on the human psyche. Through the eyes of Dorrigo Evans, you'll explore an intense love affair, the brutal reality of a Japanese POW camp, and the haunting repercussions of surviving amidst the unimaginable. It's a tale that promises to stay with you, challenging your perceptions of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
The Narrow Road to the Deep North
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Richard Flanagan | Vintage

The Narrow Road to the Deep North

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90

If you're drawn to stories that delve into the complexities of life, love, and memory, especially against the backdrop of war's unforgiving nature, "The Narrow Road to the Deep North" may resonate deeply with you. As you follow Dorrigo Evans' life, his trials as a POW, and the rippling effects of war on both captors and captives, you'll find a narrative woven with such emotional gravity that it sticks with you long after the last page. This book doesn't just recount history; it explores the human condition in the face of it.
Snow Falling on Cedars
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David Guterson | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Snow Falling on Cedars

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

62% off est. retail
If the intertwining of history and personal stories captures your thoughts, "Snow Falling on Cedars" would resonate with you. Picture the foggy, cedar-laden landscape setting the scene for a mystery that delves deep into human emotions and historical wounds. It's not just the suspense of the murder trial that will hold you; the poignant exploration of love and prejudice in this community will stay with you long after the last page.
Frankie & Stankie
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Barbara Trapido | Penguin

Frankie & Stankie

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

"Frankie & Stankie" is not just a window into the past struggles against racial injustice—it's a vibrant portal. As you follow Dinah and Lisa on their journey from innocence to a more acute awareness of their society's deep-seated inequalities, you experience the paradox of growing up in a world where the division of race is stark but the spirit of youth is universal. This novel's honest portrayal of childhood amidst social turmoil is both poignant and illuminating, perfect for those who appreciate historical depth woven seamlessly with personal growth.
The Fraud
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Zadie Smith | Hamish Hamilton

The Fraud

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.3

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

68% off est. retail
If you're the kind of reader who relishes diving into the layered complexities of history, fiction, and morality, then Zadie Smith's "The Fraud" could be a compelling pick for you. Imagine the swirl of Victorian London's societal facades mixed with the gritty truths of colonial Jamaica, all while wrestling with themes of identity and deceit. This isn't just a peek into the past; it's a mirror held up to the timeless nature of human pretense and the quest for truth.
The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe
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Andrew O'Hagan | Faber & Faber

The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 2.73

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

68% off est. retail
If the glitz and glam of 20th-century Hollywood, combined with a unique narrative twist sounds intriguing to you, then diving into "The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe" will be a treat. Witnessing events and changes from the perspective of Marilyn Monroe's canine companion offers you a fresh lens on history and celebrity culture, making this book a distinctive read that cleverly blurs the lines between fiction and reality.
Pure
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Andrew Miller | Sceptre

Pure

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

77% off est. retail
"Pure" transports you to the brink of the French Revolution. Imagine walking through Paris as it balances on the edge of monumental change, with a story that encapsulates the transformation of the era. Through the eyes of Jean-Baptiste Baratte, you'll engage with a narrative that's as much about the physical task of clearing Les Innocents as it is about the societal decay. It cleverly interweaves personal struggle, societal upheaval, and the poignant reminder that progress often comes with a price. If you're intrigued by historical fiction that digs deep into the undercurrents of change, this is a thought-provoking journey you wouldn't want to miss.
Girl in Hyacinth Blue
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Susan Vreeland | Macmurray & Beck

Girl in Hyacinth Blue

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

86% off est. retail
If you've ever felt captivated by the mysterious aura that surrounds a piece of art, "Girl in Hyacinth Blue" is for you. Susan Vreeland skillfully intertwines the past and present, reflecting on the profound impact art can have on various lives across centuries. Each story surrounding this painting is a brushstroke in an elaborate canvas, painting how beauty and humanity persist despite adversity. It’s a compelling voyage through time, and with every page, you might find a bit of yourself within the colors of this literary masterpiece.
The Sealwoman's Gift
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Sally Magnusson | Two Roads

The Sealwoman's Gift

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

87% off est. retail
If you appreciate a mix of history with a touch of myth, "The Sealwoman's Gift" could be the next book on your nightstand. The narrative weaves a powerful tale of loss, love, and identity, all set against the stark beauty of 17th-century Iceland. Sally Magnusson crafts a moving story that not only brings history to life but also explores the resilience of human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The Rice Mother
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Rani Manicka | Hodder

The Rice Mother

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

82% off est. retail
"The Rice Mother" unfolds as richly as a tapestry, with Lakshmi's poignant story etching itself into your heart. As you turn each page, you'll find yourself steeped in the vivid cultural backdrop of Malaya, wrestling with the complexities of familial devotion and the harsh realities of poverty. It's a narrative that's as resilient and powerful as the matriarch it portrays, sure to resonate with anyone who appreciates family epics told with raw honesty and lush detail.
Eternal Zero - Thryft
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Naoki Hyakuta | Vertical

Eternal Zero

$13.78 $12.90 6% off

Goodreads rating: 4.43

$13.78 $12.90 6% off

If tales of courage amidst the turmoils of wartime fascinate you, "Eternal Zero" could well be your next favorite read. This novel pulls you into a deeply personal journey as the younger generation wrestles with their grandfather's contested legacy as a kamikaze pilot. Through this narrative, you'll confront the complexities of war and memory, a topic especially resonant for anyone interested in the nuances of history and the moral entanglements of wartime actions.
TransAtlantic - Thryft
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Colum McCann | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

TransAtlantic

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

85% off est. retail
If you’re someone who loves diving into the complex tapestry of history through personal lives and epic journeys, "TransAtlantic" is a book that could enchant you. McCann masterfully intertwines tales across time, from daring flights to political quests and the pursuit of freedom. His poetic prose and the deeply human stories at the heart of this novel make it a captivating read that not only entertains but also offers profound insights into the interconnectedness of our stories.
A Girl Like You - Thryft
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Maureen Lindley | Bloomsbury Publishing India Pvt Limited

A Girl Like You

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Satomi's story in "A Girl Like You" will resonate with you if you've ever felt caught between two worlds, or if you're interested in the experiences of those with mixed heritage, particularly during the tumultuous times of war. It's an intimate exploration of identity, resilience, and the enduring question of what it means to be American in the face of adversity. It's not just historical fiction; it's an emotional voyage that offers a window into a dark chapter of American history with a personal touch that's both educational and deeply moving.
he : A Novel - Thryft
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John Connolly | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

he : A Novel

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

78% off est. retail
If you're touched by the magic of old Hollywood and the poignant behind-the-scenes lives of its stars, "he" is a must-read. John Connolly dives deep into the heart and soul of Stan Laurel, exploring the complexities of his partnership with Oliver Hardy. It offers both a celebration of artistic genius and a compassionate examination of the private cost of fame. You'll come away feeling like you've glimpsed beneath the surface of these cinematic legends, making your laughter upon watching their films all the more heartfelt.
One Man's Bible - Thryft
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Gao Xingjian | Perennial

One Man's Bible

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

If you're intrigued by the resilience of the human spirit amidst political turmoil, Gao Xingjian's "One Man's Bible" could be a compelling read for you. It's not just historical context or a personal memoir; it's a crafted narrative that immerses you in the psychological and emotional landscape of a man caught in the whirlwind of China's Cultural Revolution and its aftermath. This book could provide a profound understanding of the intersection between the personal and the political, delivered with a literary grace that earned Gao a Nobel Prize.
Dignity & Grace of Ageing - Thryft
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Kua Ee Heok | Armour Publishing Pte Ltd

Dignity & Grace of Ageing

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.26

This book could be a good read for someone who wants to explore the beauty and challenges of growing old. Through the two captivating novels, "The Forgotten River" and "Listening to Letter from America", readers embark on a journey that celebrates the resilience and wisdom that come with age. The book not only offers insights into the struggles faced by those affected by Alzheimer's, but also provides a poignant exploration of the healing power of shared experiences. It is a reminder that even in the face of memory loss, there is still beauty and grace to be found in the process of ageing.
The Ghost Who Pinched Me - Thryft
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Mabel Gan | Marshall Cavendish International (asia) Pte Ltd

The Ghost Who Pinched Me

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$5.90

This book is a must-read for those who appreciate beautifully written stories of love, loss, and the indomitable spirit of a young girl during wartime. Through the innocent and heartfelt perspective of ten-year-old Bee Ling, readers will be drawn into the intimate world of sisterhood, discovering the power of familial bonds and the enduring strength that lies within. Mabel Gan's unflinching clarity and evocative storytelling will leave you haunted and moved long after you turn the last page.
The Remains of the Day
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Kazuo Ishiguro | Faber Modern Classics

The Remains of the Day

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$8.90

61% off est. retail
The Remains of the Day would be a good read for those who enjoy reflective narratives that revolve around nostalgia, reminiscence, and analyzing past actions and their consequences. The book's most distinctive feature is the character of Stevens, the butler, and his unwavering loyalty towards his master, which offers a unique perspective on the intricacies of power dynamics. The book's elegiac tone and Ishiguro's impeccable writing would leave a long-lasting impression on the reader, making it a worthwhile read for fans of literary fiction.
Lieutenant Kurosawa’s Errand Boy
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Warran Kalasegaran | Epigram Books

Lieutenant Kurosawa’s Errand Boy

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$9.90

67% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by historical events and their personal impact, "Lieutenant Kurosawa’s Errand Boy" could be a compelling read for you. You'll be transported to a Singapore under Japanese occupation, experiencing the struggle and resilience through the eyes of a young boy. It's not just a lesson in history—it's an exploration of how identity and humanity prevail in the darkest of times. Plus, the character's journey doesn't end with the war; it’s a saga that intertwines with another's, painting a vivid picture of a post-war Singapore grappling with its new identity.
The Dovekeepers
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Alice Hoffman | Simon & Schuster

The Dovekeepers

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

60% off est. retail
"The Dovekeepers" isn't just another historical fiction. It's a poignant exploration of human endurance, blending myth with raw emotion in the stories of four complex women. Hoffman's prose is as evocative as the desert setting, brimming with survival's essence. If you seek a narrative that honors the strength found in belief and love amid life's harshest trials, this book will resonate deeply.
One Man's Justice - Thryft
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Akira Yoshimura | Canongate Books Ltd

One Man's Justice

$6.98

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$6.98

Hiroshima and Nagasaki have been destroyed. Japan is in ruins and occupied by the Americans.Takuya, an ex-officer in the Imperial Army, has returned to his native village only to learn that the Occupation authorities are intensifying their efforts to apprehend suspected war criminals. And those who are found guilty are being sentenced to death.Fearing that his role in the execution of a number of American pilots, Takuya takes to the road and becomes a fugitive in his own country.One Man's Justice is both a reflection on the murky reality of war and a page-turning novel of pursuit and escape.
How We Disappeared
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Jing-Jing Lee | Oneworld Publications

How We Disappeared

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$8.90

55% off est. retail
"How We Disappeared" is not just a book; it's a journey through the silent echoes of the past, where pain and resilience bleed into each other. If you were captivated by the depth and historical intricacies in "Pachinko," you'll find a similar heartfelt narrative here, one that weaves the struggle for identity amidst the brutal backdrop of war. Jing-Jing Lee offers a compelling story that honors the strength of the human spirit, making it a powerful read for anyone interested in the personal, often untold experiences of history.
No-no Boy - Thryft
Sold out
Frank Chin, John Okada, Lawson Fusao Inada  | University Of Washington Press

No-no Boy

$7.21

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$7.21

John Okada was born in Seattle, Washington in 1923. He attended the University of Washington and Columbia University. He served in the US Army in World War II, wrote one novel and died of a heart attack at the age of 47. John Okada died in obscurity believing that Asian America had rejected his work. In this work, Okada gives the perspective of a no-no boy, a Japanese-American man who would neither denounce his Japanese heritage nor fight for the U.S. Army during WWII. This novel takes place after the main character spent two years in a Japanese internment camp, and two years in prison after saying no when asked to join the U.S. Army. Okada's novel No-No Boy shows the internal and external struggles fought by Japanese-Americans in that time period, be they no-no boys or not.
Pachinko : The New York Times Bestseller - Thryft
Sold out
Min Jin Lee | Head Of Zeus

Pachinko

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$8.90

"Pachinko" is a deep dive into the complexities of an immigrant family's life, blending intimate storytelling with historical context. It's not just a tale of survival, but also a portrayal of enduring cultural identity amidst discrimination and hardship. For those of you passionate about multi-generational epics and unflinching looks at the human spirit across decades, this book brings a heartfelt examination of identity, family, and the weight of history.