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Sumiko Nakano

Goodreads Author

Born

in Ōsaka-shi, Japan

December 08, 1998

Website

https://www.sumiko-nakano.com

Twitter

SumikoNakano98

Genre

Historical Fiction, Fiction

Influences

Bernard Cornwell

Member Since

November 2023

URL

https://www.goodreads.com/sumiko_nakano

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I’m Sumiko Nakano, a British–Japanese author who somehow ended up living between two worlds — the one I research, and the one I actually inhabit. Born in Ōsaka-shi and raised in the UK, I lost my ability to speak after an accident as a child. I didn’t get my voice back, so I built a new one in writing. Silence didn’t shut me down; it just forced me to communicate with more intent than most people ever need to.

My work focuses on 19th-century Japan, especially the Boshin War and the women history decided to misplace, soften, or ignore. I don’t write the tidy version of events — I write the version that still bites. My novels and historical books are stitched together from research, stubbornness, and an annoying tendency to dig until the truth ...more

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Popular Answered Questions

How do you deal with writer’s block?

Sumiko Nakano When I face writer's block, I tackle it by changing my environment, which often helps to refresh my mind and spark new ideas. I also prioritize taking…moreWhen I face writer's block, I tackle it by changing my environment, which often helps to refresh my mind and spark new ideas. I also prioritize taking breaks, understanding that stepping away for a bit can provide a much-needed perspective shift.

Engaging in freewriting sessions is another method I use. It allows me to write without the pressure of perfection, often leading to unexpected bursts of creativity. Additionally, reading books can offer new inspirations and broaden my thinking, which is beneficial for overcoming blocks.

If I'm stuck, discussing my work with someone can provide fresh insights. Also, reflecting on my past writing successes reminds me that this block is just a temporary hurdle.

I approach writer's block with a mix of patience and proactive strategies, recognizing that it's a natural part of the creative process and something that can be navigated with time and the right mindset.(less)

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What’s the best thing about being a writer?

Sumiko Nakano One of the most rewarding aspects of being a writer is the ability to create and share entire worlds, stories, and characters from your imagination. I…moreOne of the most rewarding aspects of being a writer is the ability to create and share entire worlds, stories, and characters from your imagination. It's a form of expression that allows for the exploration of ideas, emotions, and experiences in a deep and meaningful way. As a writer, you have the unique opportunity to connect with readers, to evoke emotions, and to offer new perspectives on the world.

Writing also provides a sense of freedom and autonomy. You have the power to dictate every aspect of your narrative, from the intricacies of your characters to the settings and plots. This creative control is both exhilarating and fulfilling.

Additionally, writing can be a cathartic process. It allows you to process your own thoughts and experiences, often leading to personal insights and growth. The act of writing itself can be therapeutic, helping to make sense of complex emotions and life events.

Finally, the impact you can have on your readers is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that your words might inspire, comfort, entertain, or provoke thought in others adds a profound sense of purpose and satisfaction to the work of a writer.(less)

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Sumiko Nakano’s books

Average rating: 4.6 · 20 ratings · 7 reviews · 36 distinct works

	Daughters of Wars: The Birth of Steel and Vengeance really liked it 4.00 avg rating — 7 ratings — 4 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Shadows of the Naginata: The Epic Saga of Japan's Samurai Heroine Nakano Takeko by Sumiko Nakano (Goodreads Author), Natalie Sporkmann (Illustrator) it was amazing 5.00 avg rating — 2 ratings	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Drive, Die, Repeat: Chaos, Castles, and OnnaMusha it was amazing 5.00 avg rating — 2 ratings	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Rot Beneath The Blossoms: The Truth Japan Buried to Build Itself it was amazing 5.00 avg rating — 2 ratings — 2 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	The Jōshitai: Unsung Heroines of the Boshin War 4.50 avg rating — 2 ratings — 3 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	The Broken Oath (Daughters of Wars Book 2) it was amazing 5.00 avg rating — 1 rating — 2 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Drive, Die, Repeat: Chaos, Castles, and OnnaMusha it was amazing 5.00 avg rating — 1 rating — 2 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Rot Beneath The Blossoms: The Truth Japan Buried to Build Itself it was amazing 5.00 avg rating — 1 rating	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Töchter des Krieges: Die Geburt von Stahl und Rache by Sumiko Nakano (Goodreads Author), Thorsten Schauer (translator) 0.00 avg rating — 0 ratings — 3 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	The Broken Oath 0.00 avg rating — 0 ratings	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

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Nakano Takeko and Jeanne d'Arc: Women Warriors Who Defied Social Norms and Inspired a Nation

The pages of history are filled with brave and iconic individuals, who, despite overwhelming obstacles, made indelible marks on society. Two such figures—Nakano Takeko from Japan and Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc) from France—demonstrate that courage and conviction are not bound by culture, time, or even gender. Both women defied social norms, assumed roles traditionally reserved for men, and played s Read more of this blog post »

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Published on November 25, 2023 00:54

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Shadows of the Naginata: The Epic Saga of Japan's Samurai Heroine Nakano Takeko

by Sumiko Nakano (Goodreads Author)

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Sumiko Nakano said: " "Shadows of the Naginata" by Sumiko Nakano is a compelling historical novel that transports its readers to 19th-century Japan, a time of cultural and political upheaval. The book focuses on the life of Nakano Takeko, a female samurai warrior, whose s "Shadows of the Naginata" by Sumiko Nakano is a compelling historical novel that transports its readers to 19th-century Japan, a time of cultural and political upheaval. The book focuses on the life of Nakano Takeko, a female samurai warrior, whose story is not just a tale of battles and warfare, but also a profound exploration of resilience, honor, and defiance against societal norms.

Nakano's narrative style is immersive, richly weaving together historical details with fictional elements to create a vivid portrayal of the era. She skillfully balances the description of the Boshin War's broader historical context with the personal journey of Takeko. The protagonist, Nakano Takeko, is presented as a multifaceted character – a warrior imbued with courage and skill, yet also grappling with the constraints imposed by her gender in a rigidly patriarchal society.

The book shines particularly in its depiction of the challenges faced by women in the samurai class. Takeko's determination to fight, not only for her clan but also for her place in a male-dominated world, is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. Nakano’s writing pays homage to the indomitable spirit of such women, making the novel resonate with modern readers, especially those interested in gender roles and their historical evolution.

Moreover, "Shadows of the Naginata" stands out for its rich, descriptive prose that brings the landscapes and cities of 19th-century Japan to life. The battle scenes are vivid and well-crafted, never glorifying violence, but rather showing it as an integral, often tragic part of the samurai life. The cultural and emotional landscape of the era is rendered with sensitivity, allowing readers to empathize deeply with the characters' struggles and triumphs.

In summary, Sumiko Nakano’s "Shadows of the Naginata" is an outstanding work that offers both a thrilling narrative and a thoughtful reflection on history, gender, and courage. It is a must-read for those who appreciate historical fiction with strong, nuanced characters and a deep respect for the historical periods it explores. ...more "

Nov 24, 2023 05:28AM · see review

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Sumiko’s Recent Updates

Sumiko Nakano made a comment on Shazzy P.’s review of Daughters of Wars: The Birth of Steel and Vengeance " Thank you for reading Daughters of Wars and for taking the time to leave a detailed review. Two stars might sting a bit, but I actually appreciate you ...more "
Jun 09, 2025 11:11PM · see review
Sumiko Nakano liked Shazzy P.'s review of Daughters of Wars: The Birth of Steel and Vengeance: "I initially intended to rate this book three stars due to its engaging storyline. However, I ultimately chose to lower my rating to two stars because of the repetitive writing style that I found somewhat distracting. Specifically, the author's tenden" Read more of this review »
Jun 09, 2025 11:10PM · see review · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of Daughters of Wars by Sumiko Nakano. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — Daughters of Wars by Sumiko Nakano <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">

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Quotes by Sumiko Nakano (?)

“In the heart of every Onna Musha,
the spirit of battle burns like an unquenchable flame.
With every strike, we carve our destiny in the sands of time,
and in the midst of combat,
we discover the true essence of our warrior souls.
Each clash is a dance of honor, and every victory,
a testament to our unwavering resolve.
Through the storm of battle, we rise as legends,
fueled by the fire of our fighting spirit, for in our hearts,
we are the warriors who conquer the impossible.”
― Sumiko Nakano, Shadows of the Naginata: The Epic Saga of Japan's Samurai Heroine Nakano Takeko

tags: history

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