30
Jul
2009
Japanese Reading Challenge
Wait. Before you say anything about me starting yet another challenge, let me say something. This challenge only requires reading ONE BOOK.
Of course…of course that doesn’t mean I’m going to pick just one book. Since this is the 3rd Japanese reading challenge that Bellezza has hosted (though, first for me since I wasn’t blogging yet the last two times the challenge was held!) I decided to pick three books.
Here’s my list:
1. Silence by Shusaku Endo
2. An Introduction to Zen Buddhism by D.T. Suzuki
3. The Last Samurai by Helen DeWitt (and watch Kurosawa’s The Seven Samurai)
O.K., I know that that last one isn’t actually a book of Japanese origin, by someone of Japanese decent, or takes place in Japan. But what I think it does deal with, if I’m not mistaken, is Kurosawa’s film, and other elements of Japanese culture. So there!
This challenge runs July 30th to January 30th.
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Welcome! I’ve not read Silence by Endo, but I did read Wonderful Fool. It was, indeed, wonderful. I look forward to your reviews, and I’m glad you’re joining in the fun. It’s nice to meet you.
Hello, fellow participant in this challenge!
I don’t have a list of books to read yet, but I recognise Endo’s name on your list. Haven’t read it yet, but I hear it’s excellent. Will be waiting to read about what you have to say about it.
Good luck to the both of us!
ps: Love your blog layout!
Interesting list. I didn’t know there was a Last Samurai novel. Perhaps I should check that out one time. Enjoy the challenge!
Oh by the way, I too was born in ‘83. It’s only recently that I decided to start reading literature, and so far I’m really enjoying it
Glad you’re joining the challenge, too! I love this challenge and the new discoveries it’s brought. And great reason for reading #3 (after all only ONE book is required, right?)
I think I’m probably going to end up joining, becasue I’ve been wanting to read The Pillow Book by Sei Shonagon! A Challenge to be completed with just one book! Sounds great!
DO IT. You know you want to. All of the cool kids are doing it.
I’m in on this one too! I am actually reading 2 Japanese books right now, but will pick a different one to satisfy the challenge. Glad you’re doing it, too!
This feels like cheating because I’m alerady reading Murakami’s Wild Sheep Chase and Banana Yoshimoto’s Amrita. Will happily add Taichi Yamada’s I haven’t Dreamed of Flying for a While.
Not really a challenge, though. I love Japanese books