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4.09 AVERAGE
4.09 AVERAGE
A nice read. I really enjoy Japanese authors and stories about Japan so it was nice to see what an English author made of living in Japan and the differences between writing and description.
funny
hopeful
informative
medium-paced
Good funny writing and an easy read. Pacing felt odd - felt like we spent most time over one year then rushed the rest. Couldn't get fully into this one, maybe because I just finished the dark tower, maybe because I was made unemployed - either way, not Broad's fault.
adventurous
funny
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
Went into this with high expectations and came out slightly disappointed. I had a nice time reminiscing about Japan and its culture while reading, but it all felt a tad surface level…
The insightful parts towards the end about recovery and the enduring Japanese spirit felt rushed, and sandwiched between Chris recounting his successes, whereas attitudes to Chris’s weight and people’s use of the word “fuck” were repeatedly referenced. I also found it odd he didn’t really talk in detail about his family and being so far from them?
The insightful parts towards the end about recovery and the enduring Japanese spirit felt rushed, and sandwiched between Chris recounting his successes, whereas attitudes to Chris’s weight and people’s use of the word “fuck” were repeatedly referenced. I also found it odd he didn’t really talk in detail about his family and being so far from them?
adventurous
funny
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
Abroad in Japan by Chris Broad
Chris Broad shares his journey in Japan—how he went from knowing next to nothing about the country to not only living in the Land of the Rising Sun but also making it his livelihood.
What I like about Abroad in Japan:
- The memoir highlights the positive aspects of his experience but doesn't shy away from addressing his struggles. This gives it a very authentic feel.
- Broad's distinct humour and ability to showcase his values make the book highly enjoyable and an easy read.
- The narrative perfectly captures how daunting it is to move to an unfamiliar country where you know no one and barely speak the native language.
What I dislike about Abroad in Japan:
- About 60% of the book focuses on his first three years as an English teacher, while the remainder compresses the rest of his time in Japan. As a result, it feels like Broad skipped over important events and leaves out certain people you'd expect to hear about, especially if you're familiar with his similarly named YouTube channel, Abroad in Japan.
Chris Broad shares his journey in Japan—how he went from knowing next to nothing about the country to not only living in the Land of the Rising Sun but also making it his livelihood.
What I like about Abroad in Japan:
- The memoir highlights the positive aspects of his experience but doesn't shy away from addressing his struggles. This gives it a very authentic feel.
- Broad's distinct humour and ability to showcase his values make the book highly enjoyable and an easy read.
- The narrative perfectly captures how daunting it is to move to an unfamiliar country where you know no one and barely speak the native language.
What I dislike about Abroad in Japan:
- About 60% of the book focuses on his first three years as an English teacher, while the remainder compresses the rest of his time in Japan. As a result, it feels like Broad skipped over important events and leaves out certain people you'd expect to hear about, especially if you're familiar with his similarly named YouTube channel, Abroad in Japan.
emotional
funny
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
reflective
slow-paced
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
Really lovely and I enjoyed it immensely. Although this may be in part to my upcoming Japan trip. My only real complaint is it wasn't really 10 years. 85% of the book was the first year, and then the last few chapters jumped years which was a bit strange
funny
inspiring
medium-paced
Really enjoyed this travel journal of Chris reflecting on his time in Japan. Some really interesting insights into the culture and written in a really humorous way. A little clunky towards end chapters where he jumps from one anecdote to another but overall made me love Japanese people and hearing all about this amazing country.