lost

Still not sure what to make of this one, even on a second reading. The first time was inclined to wonder Why are we doing this or how does this all fit together, second time was more taking each moment as it's told. Enjoyed the experience of it, which is what matters most.

A daughter takes her mother, originally from Hong Kong, to Japan for a holiday. It alternates between precisely observed details of the present and the daughter's narration of memories from her past, her mother's, sister's and partner's.

A friend found this for 30p in an out-of-the-way charity shop and got it for me on the basis of it being a very good deal and being unsure how to pronounce the author's name (and therefore one I'd like it). It's sat on the shelf all these years, but I'm very glad he did.

Quietly absurdist, yet feels well grounded in the realities of time and place. Pacing, flow and details are excellent; exceptionally well written and translated.

Don't find out more about it, wondering what is going on is part of its appeal, just read it :)

gentle, short, very readable, and probably very re-readable. lingering impression is more atmosphere than plot but enough of a storyline for a sense of movement and expansiveness, often through memory.

it's a wee gem of a book, much recommended.