Denise V. (denisei) reviewed on 1/3/2010 + 32 more book reviews

Interesting! I liked learning a bit about Japanese culture while reading a pretty good mystery.

The author, being an American who lived in Japan for some years, provided some interesting details about routine things regarding daily life in Japan (paying your bus fare, hanging the futon over the balcony). These little things wouldn't be noteworthy to a Japanese native, but are the kind of tidbits a foreigner would notice when visiting the country.

There are many cultural differences that are identified throughout the story. I felt that they were presented very negatively, in a bitter tone that I couldn't help but think would offend Japanese people.

And if you are offended by details about ulcerative colitis, you wouldn't want to read this book. I have to assume this particular medical condition is included in the story in order to help fight the stigma surrounding it, as was mentioned several times while the character was suffering.

This book has mystery, suspense, a hint of romance, personal loss, and adventure. I would like to climb Mt. Fuji now!

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