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lidia7's review against another edition
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
Spoilers throughout:
This book was a mixed bag for me.
I can see that the author had good intentions but parts of this book did not age well, one of the main characters who is trans is othered, misgendered and her deadname is shared. Her coworker gets a similar treatment. Given that in the second novella (Moonlight Shadow) there's a similar character who is a man grieving for his girlfriend and wearing her clothes, the fact that Eriko transitioned after her wife's death strikes me as odd because it's almost as if it's suggested that Eriko is still a woman because she couldn't let go of her dead wife while Hiiragi stops wearing his girlfriend's clothes once he gets the chance to say goodbye and it's implied he moves on. There's also Eriko's murder, how lgbt characters's lives are often portrayed as tragic and are brutalized in order to move the plot forward? Still, violence against trans women is a real societal issue and it's good to bring awareness to it. I just don't think Banana Yoshimoto was educated enough on trans issues and possibly didn't even know the difference between a trans woman and a drag queen...
Everything I mentioned before *really* took me out of the story so I couldn't connect. I wish the story would be revised at least a little.
The message overall is hopeful even though we follow grieving and lonely characters who are understandably depressed. Kind of reminded me of James Baldwin's Giovanni's Room or Kafka's Metamorphosis - both books and authors that I love but I couldn't love this book. I haven't read a lot of Japanese books but there's a recognizable style. Very hard-hitting, getting to the core of feelings but from a somewhat detached perspective and at times "cheesy".
This book was a mixed bag for me.
I can see that the author had good intentions but parts of this book did not age well, one of the main characters who is trans is othered, misgendered and her deadname is shared. Her coworker gets a similar treatment. Given that in the second novella (Moonlight Shadow) there's a similar character who is a man grieving for his girlfriend and wearing her clothes, the fact that Eriko transitioned after her wife's death strikes me as odd because it's almost as if it's suggested that Eriko is still a woman because she couldn't let go of her dead wife while Hiiragi stops wearing his girlfriend's clothes once he gets the chance to say goodbye and it's implied he moves on. There's also Eriko's murder, how lgbt characters's lives are often portrayed as tragic and are brutalized in order to move the plot forward? Still, violence against trans women is a real societal issue and it's good to bring awareness to it. I just don't think Banana Yoshimoto was educated enough on trans issues and possibly didn't even know the difference between a trans woman and a drag queen...
Everything I mentioned before *really* took me out of the story so I couldn't connect. I wish the story would be revised at least a little.
The message overall is hopeful even though we follow grieving and lonely characters who are understandably depressed. Kind of reminded me of James Baldwin's Giovanni's Room or Kafka's Metamorphosis - both books and authors that I love but I couldn't love this book. I haven't read a lot of Japanese books but there's a recognizable style. Very hard-hitting, getting to the core of feelings but from a somewhat detached perspective and at times "cheesy".
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Transphobia, Death, and Death of parent
Moderate: Deadnaming
Minor: Stalking, Murder, Car accident, and Alcohol
marissasa's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
This little book tells the stories of women dealing with loss, grief, hope, and love. Kitchen was short and sweet but still deep enough that I grew to love the main character and really rooted for her. Her thoughts and emotions felt so realistic and true to dealing with familial death, and the way she struggled to navigate her relationships and life path forward felt just like the way it is being a woman in your early 20s. Although some of the language is quite outdated, the intent behind Eriko's character was clear and she quickly became my favorite in the story. I am fond of Banana Yoshimoto's writing style and look forward to reading some of her other works in the future.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia, Death, Death of parent, Grief, Hate crime, and Murder
sophisticatedtwat's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief
Moderate: Transphobia and Murder
caseyreadslol's review against another edition
hopeful
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
not much to say, just a juxtapositionally cozy story about grief&loss
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Transphobia, Death of parent, and Grief
Moderate: Hate crime and Murder
Minor: Suicide
12dejamoo's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
I’m not sure I even quite have the words to describe this book. It’s enchanting. And tragic. But also funny and strange and a little silly. I wanted to cry the whole time, sometimes from sadness, other times from joy, and other times from the sheer beauty of a turn of phrase. It is a privilege to have read this
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief
Moderate: Death and Murder
Minor: Transphobia and Suicide
thewordsdevourer's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.75
very surprised to find that i actually prefer the english version to this thai version. the language is def beautiful at times and it's more detailed than the english ver overall, but somehow i bafflingly find it less impactful. yoshimoto's stories still ring true w/ their melancholic yet hopeful tone, tho kitchen is markedly better than moonlight shadow imo.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Grief, and Death
Moderate: Transphobia
Minor: Murder, Cancer, and Car accident
mirivii's review
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Bought this book in Tokyo and read it on my way to Kanazawa and back. It’s a very fast book to go through, even though it deals with so much loss it almost falls into tragicomedy.
I cannot say I appreciate the way it is narrated, but I wondered if the translation did not give it justice. Knowing Japanese yo be rather poetic, maybe the translation was not up to par.
Anyway both Kitchen and the short novella afterwards are a somewhat lighthearted tales of chosen family, star crossed lovers and blossoming wild flowers between concrete.
I cannot say I appreciate the way it is narrated, but I wondered if the translation did not give it justice. Knowing Japanese yo be rather poetic, maybe the translation was not up to par.
Anyway both Kitchen and the short novella afterwards are a somewhat lighthearted tales of chosen family, star crossed lovers and blossoming wild flowers between concrete.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicidal thoughts, Misogyny, and Murder
supernuba's review
emotional
hopeful
relaxing
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Murder, Death, Stalking, and Death of parent
iw4kur4l4in's review
emotional
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Gave me a newfound hope for life.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Grief, Murder, and Death
Minor: Cancer, Alcohol, Hate crime, and Terminal illness
clavishorti's review against another edition
dark
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Within the pages of Kitchen, a literary treasure awaits, crafted by the gifted pen of Banana Yoshimoto. In this collection, Yoshimoto masterfully intertwines a spectrum of emotions: sorrow, love, and the enduring strength of human connections converge. Here, the written word becomes a vessel, transporting readers into the very heart of the human experience, promising not just to captivate the mind but also to warm the soul.
In the titular story, "Kitchen," Mikage Sakurai grapples with grief after her grandmother's passing. Her affinity for kitchens as havens of comfort symbolizes her quest for solace in a world marked by uncertainty. As Mikage navigates her emotional journey, a lingering question emerges: can she confront the profound sadness of loss and find a way to heal? Yet, amidst her quest for healing, unexpected sorrows also find their way into her life.
In the second novella, "Moonlight Shadow," Satsuki confronts the loss of her boyfriend. How does her journey into a realm where the living and departed intersect alter her understanding of love, memory, and the ephemeral nature of existence? As Satsuki grapples with the boundaries between life and death, the story beckons readers to contemplate the delicate balance between remembrance and moving forward.
The novellas convey messages resonating on a profound level, offering insights into various facets of life. The concept of self-transformation through change prevails as characters evolve amidst loss and challenges, highlighting the potential for personal growth in the face of adversity. As the kitchen emerges as a sanctuary of comfort and stability, its role underscores the significance of everyday routines and places that offer solace amid life's turbulence. These themes seamlessly intertwine with the portrayal of relationships, whether they are friendships or love connections, which emerge as powerful sources of support, healing, and interconnectedness. This exemplifies the allure of human bonds and underscores the significance of emotional connections in our lives. Furthermore, Yoshimoto delves into the delicate balance between death and life, teaching acceptance of loss and the importance of preserving memories as a way to honor those who have passed. The narratives also reflect characters' pursuit of tranquility amidst chaos, encouraging readers to reflect on their own journeys to find meaning and equilibrium amid life's uncertainties. Through these resonant themes, Kitchen becomes a poignant exploration of the intricate emotions that shape our lives, inviting readers to contemplate their own experiences and emotions profoundly.
Yoshimoto's writing style, characterized by introspection and lyricism, captures the depth of characters' emotions. The stories explore vulnerability and resilience in the face of change. Themes of love and loss are explored through unique narratives, making Kitchen a timeless reflection on the human experience.
The impact of translation and writing style on the narrative plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's experience of Kitchen. Translated adeptly by Megan Backus, the English version retains the flow and essence of the original Japanese text, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the story seamlessly. Backus preserves the lyrical quality of Yoshimoto's writing, ensuring that the emotional depth and introspective nature of the characters are conveyed effectively. The translation contributes to the accessibility and understanding of the book, making it possible for readers to engage with the complex emotions and themes explored by Yoshimoto. Overall, the translation enhances the book's power to resonate with readers, providing a faithful representation of the author's intent.
The strengths of Kitchen lie in its ability to evoke profound emotions despite its dark themes, and Yoshimoto's introspective prose enhances character exploration and emotional depth. Themes of grief, love, and human connection resonate on a universal level. However, the book's dark content might not appeal to all readers.
Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto transcends its dark themes to convey a message of resilience, connection, and the search for meaning. Through poignant storytelling, Yoshimoto captures the intricate tapestry of human emotions, leaving readers with a deep understanding of life's complexity. Whether readers seek solace, introspection, or an appreciation for human relationships, Kitchen remains a profound work that navigates the depths of the heart and soul.
In the titular story, "Kitchen," Mikage Sakurai grapples with grief after her grandmother's passing. Her affinity for kitchens as havens of comfort symbolizes her quest for solace in a world marked by uncertainty. As Mikage navigates her emotional journey, a lingering question emerges: can she confront the profound sadness of loss and find a way to heal? Yet, amidst her quest for healing, unexpected sorrows also find their way into her life.
In the second novella, "Moonlight Shadow," Satsuki confronts the loss of her boyfriend. How does her journey into a realm where the living and departed intersect alter her understanding of love, memory, and the ephemeral nature of existence? As Satsuki grapples with the boundaries between life and death, the story beckons readers to contemplate the delicate balance between remembrance and moving forward.
The novellas convey messages resonating on a profound level, offering insights into various facets of life. The concept of self-transformation through change prevails as characters evolve amidst loss and challenges, highlighting the potential for personal growth in the face of adversity. As the kitchen emerges as a sanctuary of comfort and stability, its role underscores the significance of everyday routines and places that offer solace amid life's turbulence. These themes seamlessly intertwine with the portrayal of relationships, whether they are friendships or love connections, which emerge as powerful sources of support, healing, and interconnectedness. This exemplifies the allure of human bonds and underscores the significance of emotional connections in our lives. Furthermore, Yoshimoto delves into the delicate balance between death and life, teaching acceptance of loss and the importance of preserving memories as a way to honor those who have passed. The narratives also reflect characters' pursuit of tranquility amidst chaos, encouraging readers to reflect on their own journeys to find meaning and equilibrium amid life's uncertainties. Through these resonant themes, Kitchen becomes a poignant exploration of the intricate emotions that shape our lives, inviting readers to contemplate their own experiences and emotions profoundly.
Yoshimoto's writing style, characterized by introspection and lyricism, captures the depth of characters' emotions. The stories explore vulnerability and resilience in the face of change. Themes of love and loss are explored through unique narratives, making Kitchen a timeless reflection on the human experience.
The impact of translation and writing style on the narrative plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's experience of Kitchen. Translated adeptly by Megan Backus, the English version retains the flow and essence of the original Japanese text, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the story seamlessly. Backus preserves the lyrical quality of Yoshimoto's writing, ensuring that the emotional depth and introspective nature of the characters are conveyed effectively. The translation contributes to the accessibility and understanding of the book, making it possible for readers to engage with the complex emotions and themes explored by Yoshimoto. Overall, the translation enhances the book's power to resonate with readers, providing a faithful representation of the author's intent.
The strengths of Kitchen lie in its ability to evoke profound emotions despite its dark themes, and Yoshimoto's introspective prose enhances character exploration and emotional depth. Themes of grief, love, and human connection resonate on a universal level. However, the book's dark content might not appeal to all readers.
Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto transcends its dark themes to convey a message of resilience, connection, and the search for meaning. Through poignant storytelling, Yoshimoto captures the intricate tapestry of human emotions, leaving readers with a deep understanding of life's complexity. Whether readers seek solace, introspection, or an appreciation for human relationships, Kitchen remains a profound work that navigates the depths of the heart and soul.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder, Death, Death of parent, Grief, and Transphobia