A review by transficthonnomushi
There's No Such Thing as an Easy Job by Kikuko Tsumura

emotional funny inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective medium-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? Yes

5.0

This book is just brilliant, it tells the tale of the various jobs the female lead undertakes after leaving her job of 14 years after burn out. In terms of subjects it shouldn't be as interesting and engaging as it is! But it's brilliant! #Tsumura really draws out the hidden psychological elements to even the supposedly simplest or basic of roles. The ending brought it together really well and in a sense, for me, it kind of made sense why the female lead did really well in each role but ultimately ended up leaving for various reasons. The jobs were vastly different and gave such an insight into the role itself but crucially how you may approach that role, make it interest and how you can tread the tightrope of trying to enjoy your job but not be overwhelmed or overworked by it, such a huge issue in today's world.

Polly Barton's translation is excellent and the book is so quirky and funny. At 399 pages it looks quite long but as each role takes up a chapter it is broken down nicely.

Loved it, what a start to 2022!