A review by qa9
The Fox Woman by Kij Johnson

5.0

While the story engaged me from the start, I found myself feeling lost halfway through. It took some rethinking then; once I saw the writing more as poetry, though, the book became so much more enjoyable--not to mention lovely.

Each named character is given realistic and respectful depth. I can't say how much I appreciated this respect! And for characters in situations usually given little to none, like Shikujo (wife) or Josei (lady's maid).

Then the setting in rural Japan is beautiful. I learned much from its historical basis--which apparently is accurately represented, judging by the research listed in the final pages.

Beautifully told. I loved the journey.