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A review by kate66
The Thorn Puller by Hiromi Itō
4.0
At first I thought this book might be too poetic for me as I had never heard of Hiromi Ito and was unaware of her presence as a celebrated poet. What attracted me initially and what eventually made me really like this book is the way Ito intertwines stories about her life with Japanese and US culture and with Japanese fables and myths.
I've been fascinated with Japanese lit for some years and it's always interesting to hear a new, lyrical voice. This is Ito's first English translation but if it is typical of her work I'd definitely read more.
You are never quite sure whether the story is fact or fiction because the lines are quite blurred at times. She uses myth to emphasise real life and the beliefs of Japanese animistic religions are used to great effect.
Some parts were a little lengthy but I found that once I picked this book up I found it hard to put down. I would definitely put this down to Ito's (and therefore Jeffrey Angles' translation) mastery of language.
A fascinating look at life, growing up, middle then old age and death as Ito splits her time between her California based husband and children and her elderly parents in Kumamoto.
Recommended for any fans of Japanese lit/poetry or those simply interested in a different culture.
I've been fascinated with Japanese lit for some years and it's always interesting to hear a new, lyrical voice. This is Ito's first English translation but if it is typical of her work I'd definitely read more.
You are never quite sure whether the story is fact or fiction because the lines are quite blurred at times. She uses myth to emphasise real life and the beliefs of Japanese animistic religions are used to great effect.
Some parts were a little lengthy but I found that once I picked this book up I found it hard to put down. I would definitely put this down to Ito's (and therefore Jeffrey Angles' translation) mastery of language.
A fascinating look at life, growing up, middle then old age and death as Ito splits her time between her California based husband and children and her elderly parents in Kumamoto.
Recommended for any fans of Japanese lit/poetry or those simply interested in a different culture.