You need to sign in or sign up before continuing.
Take a photo of a barcode or cover
justinlewry 's review for:
How Do You Live?
by Genzaburō Yoshino
challenging
emotional
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
How Do You Live? is a very unique book, in the sense that it was never intended to take its ultimate shape. Genzaburo Yoshino aspired to write a book of lessons for ethical living, but wasn't able to do so due to the ruling government's restrictions on what could be published at the time. Yoshino circumnavigated this barrier by instead writing his ethics book in the form of a story, with his ideals being presented as the protagonist's reflections or conversations by their guiding uncle.
The answers to the titular question are rooted in Eastern philosophy, with lessons about the importance of living for others, of contributing to society and of demonstrating utmost respect for those that have come before oneself. Some may find this book to be preachy or lacking in nuance, but I found each of these lessons to be incredibly moving.
Unfortunately, the narrative often feels like a means to an end. It's not poorly written by any means, but I did find myself growing impatient at times, instead yearning to get to the next reflection. These reflections are where the book really shines and where Yoshino fulfils his desire.
It is clear to see why animation auteur Hayao Miyazaki took great inspiration from this book when crafting his latest and final film. To take the essence from a story which had such a profound impact on him as a child and translate that into a film whose purpose aims to achieve the same affect was no easy feat. I do feel however that the teachings within the book are much more effective than those within the film. Regardless, I can be thankful to Miyazaki for introducing this wonderful story to me.
The answers to the titular question are rooted in Eastern philosophy, with lessons about the importance of living for others, of contributing to society and of demonstrating utmost respect for those that have come before oneself. Some may find this book to be preachy or lacking in nuance, but I found each of these lessons to be incredibly moving.
Unfortunately, the narrative often feels like a means to an end. It's not poorly written by any means, but I did find myself growing impatient at times, instead yearning to get to the next reflection. These reflections are where the book really shines and where Yoshino fulfils his desire.
It is clear to see why animation auteur Hayao Miyazaki took great inspiration from this book when crafting his latest and final film. To take the essence from a story which had such a profound impact on him as a child and translate that into a film whose purpose aims to achieve the same affect was no easy feat. I do feel however that the teachings within the book are much more effective than those within the film. Regardless, I can be thankful to Miyazaki for introducing this wonderful story to me.