A review by jayisreading
Where the Wild Ladies Are by Aoko Matsuda

funny mysterious reflective medium-paced

3.0

This is an interconnected short story collection that puts a feminist spin on different Japanese folktales and ghost stories. Revolving almost completely around women, Matsuda takes a deep dive to question how women are perceived and upheld to particular standards in Japanese society, often using wit and humor. I do think that this collection will be far more enjoyable for those who are already familiar with the original stories. Even with the brief explanations provided though, I still felt fairly disconnected from (and, thus, not entirely engaged with) most of these stories because I couldn't entirely follow the references being made.

Overall, a quirky collection to read, though a bit hard to work with if you're not familiar with the original material.

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Domestic abuse, Death, Body shaming, and Suicide

Minor: Sexual harassment and Rape