Reviews

Argentine Hag by Banana Yoshimoto, Nara Yoshitomo

sanmeow's review

emotional reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character

4.25

somewhat reminded me of kitchen, thematically. in argentine hag, banana yoshimoto once again explores the themes of family, death, loss, grief, and coping with the death of a loved one. however, i wasn't bored because the approach is different from her approach in kitchen, and so are the characters. they deal with the grief differently, which is quite good because it allowed the author to showcase the varying ways people cope with loss. just like every other banana yoshimoto book, it's very atmospheric, it has some peculiar elements, and it's well written in her signature style. the design of the book stands out though, because of the pictures by nara yoshimoto ^^

stargirl07's review

emotional reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

mrt's review

emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing sad fast-paced

4.75

leucocrystal's review

4.0

Lovely, ephemeral, light, and wistful, just like you would expect from Banana Yoshimoto. I know her writing has been considered "fluff" by some, but ever since reading "Kitchen" in high school, I've always loved her way of painting emotionally stirring, physically vivid feelings and places. She's not overly concerned with plot, but her way with those things makes that feel not so necessary, at least to me. Very glad to have stumbled upon the beautiful bilingual edition with the charming illustrations carefully laid-in throughout.