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Tokyo Heist
Sixteen-year-old Violet is thrilled when her father's new painting commission means a summer trip to Japan. But what starts as an exotic vacation quickly turns sour when a priceless sketch by van Gogh is stolen from her father's client and held ransom for a painting by the artist. The problem is that nobody knows where the painting is hidden, and until they find it, all their lives are in danger.
Joined by her friend Reika, Violet searches for the missing van Gogh in a quest that takes her from the Seattle Art Museum to the yakuza-infested streets of Tokyo to a secluded inn in Kyoto. As the mystery deepens, Violet's not sure whom she can trust. But she knows one thing: she has to find the painting and the criminals--before it's too late.
Joined by her friend Reika, Violet searches for the missing van Gogh in a quest that takes her from the Seattle Art Museum to the yakuza-infested streets of Tokyo to a secluded inn in Kyoto. As the mystery deepens, Violet's not sure whom she can trust. But she knows one thing: she has to find the painting and the criminals--before it's too late.
364 pages, Hardcover
First published June 14, 2012
75 people are currently reading
3049 people want to read
About the author
Diana Renn
12 books121 followersI write mysteries for readers of all ages, some featuring international intrigue and some set close to home. Most recently, I write eco-mysteries for middle grade readers. The first in the Backyard Rangers series, TROUBLE AT TURTLE POND (Fitzroy Books / Regal House), was named a 2023 Green Earth Book Award Honor Book and a Massachusetts Book Award "Must Read." The second book in the series, THE OWL PROWL MYSTERY, releases August 13, 2024. My three YA mysteries, TOKYO HEIST, LATITUDE ZERO, and BLUE VOYAGE (Viking/Penguin Random House) feature globetrotting teen sleuths. I'm also a co-author of FALSE IDOLS, an episodically-released international thriller for adults, available on Realm (formerly Serial Box) and in print from Adaptive Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
August 11, 2012
*Review based on only the first 100 pages.*
Warning: There's a tad bit of ranting in this review, so please go away if you don't want to be offended. That is all. Read on at your own risk.
I am so disappointed by this book. I had pretty high expectations, and it didn't meet any of them.
Here's the thing about me: I love a good mystery. There was a time when mystery was all I would read (I love Case Closed), and Tokyo Heist just didn't cut it for me.
The biggest issue I had was the overall believable-ness (I don't think that's a word :P) of the story. I know it's fiction, but even so, the author has to convince the reader that the events in the book are real. That didn't happen with this book. I was constantly on the verge of rolling my eyes.
For example, random Japanese people that you just met aren't likely to just give you a free trip to Japan, even if they are super rich. And it's highly unlikely that they'll just answer whatever questions you have about their stolen drawings when you're sixteen and practically a stranger.
Also, I think Violet is a flat and boring main character. Not to mention naive. Really? She's a sixteen year old girl who's obsessed with the Japanese culture who has never had any experience with crime solving, but she thinks she can solve a mystery involving two priceless drawings? Uhh...
I couldn't understand her intentions for getting involved, either. Okay, so there's a big reward if you find it. So? For all she knows, the person who stole it could be a dangerous killer.
To be honest, I found almost all the characters flat and boring (and just as ridiculous and unbelievable as Violet).
I'm not a fan of the writing either. The dialogue is kind of unrealistic.
The only parts I liked (somewhat) were the scenes where Edge was involved. That's it. Edge was the only character I liked.
I know I'm in the minority for Tokyo Heist, so give it a shot if you want, but I can't make any guarantees that you'll enjoy it.
Hwa Sun :)
P.S. I know I used Violet's age against her twice, and I don't like doing that since I'm only fourteen, but in Violet's situation, I think using her age against her kind of makes sense, since for case #1: Adults usually don't treat teens as equals, and for case #2: That's to point out that she has no experience as a detective.
Warning: There's a tad bit of ranting in this review, so please go away if you don't want to be offended. That is all. Read on at your own risk.
I am so disappointed by this book. I had pretty high expectations, and it didn't meet any of them.
Here's the thing about me: I love a good mystery. There was a time when mystery was all I would read (I love Case Closed), and Tokyo Heist just didn't cut it for me.
The biggest issue I had was the overall believable-ness (I don't think that's a word :P) of the story. I know it's fiction, but even so, the author has to convince the reader that the events in the book are real. That didn't happen with this book. I was constantly on the verge of rolling my eyes.
For example, random Japanese people that you just met aren't likely to just give you a free trip to Japan, even if they are super rich. And it's highly unlikely that they'll just answer whatever questions you have about their stolen drawings when you're sixteen and practically a stranger.
Also, I think Violet is a flat and boring main character. Not to mention naive. Really? She's a sixteen year old girl who's obsessed with the Japanese culture who has never had any experience with crime solving, but she thinks she can solve a mystery involving two priceless drawings? Uhh...
I couldn't understand her intentions for getting involved, either. Okay, so there's a big reward if you find it. So? For all she knows, the person who stole it could be a dangerous killer.
To be honest, I found almost all the characters flat and boring (and just as ridiculous and unbelievable as Violet).
I'm not a fan of the writing either. The dialogue is kind of unrealistic.
The only parts I liked (somewhat) were the scenes where Edge was involved. That's it. Edge was the only character I liked.
I know I'm in the minority for Tokyo Heist, so give it a shot if you want, but I can't make any guarantees that you'll enjoy it.
Hwa Sun :)
P.S. I know I used Violet's age against her twice, and I don't like doing that since I'm only fourteen, but in Violet's situation, I think using her age against her kind of makes sense, since for case #1: Adults usually don't treat teens as equals, and for case #2: That's to point out that she has no experience as a detective.
December 22, 2011
Having taken an Asian Art course in college, and having spent my honeymoon in Tokyo and Kyoto, I was extremely eager to get my hands on TOKYO HEIST. I recently had the opportunity to read an ARC of this terrific YA mystery, and I enjoyed every moment of it, particularly the vivid descriptions of Japan, the clever mystery, and the complex, realistic family dynamics. Without giving away too much of the plot, I'll just say this book involves stolen artwork, a summer trip to Japan, sleuthing teens, yakuza, manga, and even a budding romance.
July 18, 2015
What do I feel about this book?
That is a very hard question for me to answer.
Now, normally, I wouldn't think of it being so. The plot is a mystery, Violet gets in over her head and tries to solve the mystery. Hooray!
Only, the problem is...this book has Japanese culture in it.
I will admit, as a huge fan of anime and Japanese culture, parts of this book made me cringe. And I will complain about it because...well, I need to get out my feelings okay!
So first off, Violet comes off as a hardcore weeb. In the first 50 pages she comes off as that anime fan one does not want to associate with. She refers to her "chikara" a lot, stating it gives her power.
Yeah, use that chikara! Like I said before, calling it that makes me cringe. Like...okay. Sure, if it was another language, I think it would have been fine...but Japanese? WEEB!
Which brings me up to my next point!
Quote from page 12: "...I'm not a hard-core otaku or anything. I don't do cosplay, or post fan art on the Interne. I go to only one con a year."
But apparently she uses Japanese in everyday speech. Yeah...okay. Stop fooling yourself.
Another issue? The abundance of Japanese words with NO TRANSLATION. There isn't even a glossary in this book. I was fine because I knew all of the words from my years of watching anime but for a normal, average person? NOPE. You are on your own...with goggle as your guide! There is even a random "-chan" thrown in there! That's even harder to explain than looking up random words!
Also, why is baseball called, "besuboru"? Sure you are in Japan but you think and speak English Violet.
Another issue, this one on page 140: "...There are even some hard-core manga fans, dressed up head to toe in Lolita goth attire or other cosplay outfits."
Oh boy. How do you offend the Lolita community? With that. Lolita is NOT related to manga, It's a fashion-style and comes in many different types. Apparently, according to this book, only gothic Lolita is a thing. It is also NOT THE SAME AS COSPLAY. Sure, there are characters from shows and such that dress in Lolita but assume it isn't cosplay and instead it is fashion.
Another comment that bugged me: page 190: "...he mentioned old manga artists like Rumiko Takahashi and Osamu Tezuka."
Apparently Inu Yasha and Rin-ne count for nothing. Poor Takahasi-san! D:
Final point...this is related to Reika and in spoiler tag cause it pops up near the end.
So yeah, ummm, it was okay I guess. The few annoyances I had bugged me so much that I read this book in short bursts. The final third was great as Violet wasn't as "weeb" but getting there was a struggle.
That is a very hard question for me to answer.
Now, normally, I wouldn't think of it being so. The plot is a mystery, Violet gets in over her head and tries to solve the mystery. Hooray!
Only, the problem is...this book has Japanese culture in it.
I will admit, as a huge fan of anime and Japanese culture, parts of this book made me cringe. And I will complain about it because...well, I need to get out my feelings okay!
So first off, Violet comes off as a hardcore weeb. In the first 50 pages she comes off as that anime fan one does not want to associate with. She refers to her "chikara" a lot, stating it gives her power.
Yeah, use that chikara! Like I said before, calling it that makes me cringe. Like...okay. Sure, if it was another language, I think it would have been fine...but Japanese? WEEB!
Which brings me up to my next point!
Quote from page 12: "...I'm not a hard-core otaku or anything. I don't do cosplay, or post fan art on the Interne. I go to only one con a year."
But apparently she uses Japanese in everyday speech. Yeah...okay. Stop fooling yourself.
Another issue? The abundance of Japanese words with NO TRANSLATION. There isn't even a glossary in this book. I was fine because I knew all of the words from my years of watching anime but for a normal, average person? NOPE. You are on your own...with goggle as your guide! There is even a random "-chan" thrown in there! That's even harder to explain than looking up random words!
Also, why is baseball called, "besuboru"? Sure you are in Japan but you think and speak English Violet.
Another issue, this one on page 140: "...There are even some hard-core manga fans, dressed up head to toe in Lolita goth attire or other cosplay outfits."
Oh boy. How do you offend the Lolita community? With that. Lolita is NOT related to manga, It's a fashion-style and comes in many different types. Apparently, according to this book, only gothic Lolita is a thing. It is also NOT THE SAME AS COSPLAY. Sure, there are characters from shows and such that dress in Lolita but assume it isn't cosplay and instead it is fashion.
Another comment that bugged me: page 190: "...he mentioned old manga artists like Rumiko Takahashi and Osamu Tezuka."
Apparently Inu Yasha and Rin-ne count for nothing. Poor Takahasi-san! D:
Final point...this is related to Reika and in spoiler tag cause it pops up near the end.
So yeah, ummm, it was okay I guess. The few annoyances I had bugged me so much that I read this book in short bursts. The final third was great as Violet wasn't as "weeb" but getting there was a struggle.
February 4, 2014
The perfect mystery for fans of Ally Carter's Heist Society!
All I can to that is....
As someone who loves thieves and heists and everything that that usually entails, this was entirely disappointing.
Not only was the heist un-compelling, our MC, Violet, and sidekick, Reika, jump to conclusions and are entirely obsessed with manga(which MUST be brought up at least 5 times every chapter so the reader does NOT forget).
Their whole story screams unbelievability; two girls with absolutely no previous experience and who are, quite frankly, naive and silly, manage to crack an international art heist and catch the thief?? Not to mention that the FBI and the Yamadas are totally okay with divulging important information about the heist and the thieves and the sting to Violet, who is 16.
Yeah, no.
To top that sundae with a cherry, Reika is boy crazy, which can apparently also apply to 32 year old men that she attempts to hit on and Violet makes darling comments sometimes, ie, "Whoops. I'd forgotten how much littering is frowned upon here." as she throws a wad of paper into the water.
And Edge, the only character I was interested to know more about, got almost zero page time. Alas.
Still, it was nice to see a book focusing on the two best friends, Violet and Reika, and shoving the romance storyline to the side.
July 23, 2012
From Seattle to Tokyo, Tokyo Heist takes you to beautiful Japan to solve the case of a missing Van Gogh. Art, squid chips, kimonos and a touch of romance are on the menu for this colorful adventure, in this novel by debut author Diana Renn.
A missing painting in Tokyo? If that doesn’t sound like the makings of a fun YA mystery, I don’t know what does! And sure enough, Tokyo Heist took me on a journey that entertained me from beginning to end.
I’ll get the bad out of the way right away and say that the one thing I enjoyed less about the book was its predictability. I know, I’m repeating myself this week, but what can I say, I like being surprised! I can only half blame the author though; I’m not the target audience here, and my age certainly plays a big part in the fact that almost every twist in the book was guessed early on. What can I say; I read a lot, and the more you read, the easier it becomes to guess where the author wants to take you. So you can take my “negative observation” with a grain of salt here!
Apart from that, I loved the book. It was pleasant and fun, with just enough intrigue. I really enjoyed Violet’s descriptions of Kimono Girl and I am hanging on to the hopes that this manga will one day exist. The concept was fun, but I also liked how the author used it as a parallel for Violet’s investigation.
The mystery unveiled itself bit by bit instead of in a huge final revelation, which I enjoyed. Sure, Violet stumbled on information and clues a bit conveniently, but the plot still flew at a great pace and I was never bored. I liked discovering Tokyo and Kyoto with Violet, and I liked how the author mixed traditional elements of Japan into the mix. The characters surrounding Violet were varied and interesting, and the hints of romance were minimal (which was refreshing, to say the least!)
I also learned about squid chips, which I didn’t know was a thing, but apparently, yes! So now you know what is at the top of my list the next time we go to the Asian specialty shop. I promise a full report!
In the end, I really enjoyed this one. It was cute, and fun, and colorful. If you feel like reading a feel-good mystery and exiting your daily life for a foreign one, Tokyo Heist might the book you are looking for!
A missing painting in Tokyo? If that doesn’t sound like the makings of a fun YA mystery, I don’t know what does! And sure enough, Tokyo Heist took me on a journey that entertained me from beginning to end.
I’ll get the bad out of the way right away and say that the one thing I enjoyed less about the book was its predictability. I know, I’m repeating myself this week, but what can I say, I like being surprised! I can only half blame the author though; I’m not the target audience here, and my age certainly plays a big part in the fact that almost every twist in the book was guessed early on. What can I say; I read a lot, and the more you read, the easier it becomes to guess where the author wants to take you. So you can take my “negative observation” with a grain of salt here!
Apart from that, I loved the book. It was pleasant and fun, with just enough intrigue. I really enjoyed Violet’s descriptions of Kimono Girl and I am hanging on to the hopes that this manga will one day exist. The concept was fun, but I also liked how the author used it as a parallel for Violet’s investigation.
The mystery unveiled itself bit by bit instead of in a huge final revelation, which I enjoyed. Sure, Violet stumbled on information and clues a bit conveniently, but the plot still flew at a great pace and I was never bored. I liked discovering Tokyo and Kyoto with Violet, and I liked how the author mixed traditional elements of Japan into the mix. The characters surrounding Violet were varied and interesting, and the hints of romance were minimal (which was refreshing, to say the least!)
I also learned about squid chips, which I didn’t know was a thing, but apparently, yes! So now you know what is at the top of my list the next time we go to the Asian specialty shop. I promise a full report!
In the end, I really enjoyed this one. It was cute, and fun, and colorful. If you feel like reading a feel-good mystery and exiting your daily life for a foreign one, Tokyo Heist might the book you are looking for!
October 25, 2017
Super fun! I only wish it had a few illustrations. Yes, it's YA, so be prepared for plenty of suspension of disbelief, but it was quite enjoyable.
March 3, 2018
well, I read a YA book in grade 4... that's fine... that's normal
oops
oops
April 9, 2014
Tokyo Heist is about Violet, a sixteen year old aspiring artist and daughter of a famous artist. She accompanies her father to Japan and is dragged into a mystery involving a mysterious suicide, a missing van Gogh painting and yukata, Japanese gangsters.
I chose to read this book because it had an attention grabbing cover and title, and the blurb was very intriguing.
A setting that I found interesting was the inn that Violet went to in Arashiyama to follow up on a lead about the missing van Gogh painting. I liked this setting as it was in the countryside, which really contrasted with the bustling streets of Tokyo. Diana Renn described Arashiyama as being vibrant and picturesque, and a quote that helped me to imagine this setting was, "There's a freshness in the air, and a scent of grass and water, that makes me think of the dark green matcha we once drank at Kenji and Mitsue's house." This quote appeals to my senses and I can almost smell the earthy aroma and the see lush greenness of the town. Arashiyama also interested me as I have always wanted to go to Japan and experience the different areas there.
A quote that stood out to me was when Violet and her dad first arrived in Tokyo. "If my life were a painting right now, it would be by Salvador Dali, with everyday objects warped and weird.... And I'm dripping like a Dali clock. It's a billion degrees in Tokyo. Walking in the humid air feels like pushing through heavy curtains. I smell different scents with every step: rice, teriyaki sauce, fish, and perfume." I think this quote captures the essence of Tokyo and how alive it is. It also shows Violet's love for art by using an art related metaphor and how disoriented she is in this new environment.
This quote made me think about how anything can be acheived no matter how big the task. It may seem unrealistic for a sixteen year old to find a van Gogh painting, but Violet persisted and eventually succeeded. This can be applied in our lives too, whether it's small things like passing a test, or finding a priceless painting. The key is to be passionate about what you're doing and put in the effort.
I chose to read this book because it had an attention grabbing cover and title, and the blurb was very intriguing.
A setting that I found interesting was the inn that Violet went to in Arashiyama to follow up on a lead about the missing van Gogh painting. I liked this setting as it was in the countryside, which really contrasted with the bustling streets of Tokyo. Diana Renn described Arashiyama as being vibrant and picturesque, and a quote that helped me to imagine this setting was, "There's a freshness in the air, and a scent of grass and water, that makes me think of the dark green matcha we once drank at Kenji and Mitsue's house." This quote appeals to my senses and I can almost smell the earthy aroma and the see lush greenness of the town. Arashiyama also interested me as I have always wanted to go to Japan and experience the different areas there.
A quote that stood out to me was when Violet and her dad first arrived in Tokyo. "If my life were a painting right now, it would be by Salvador Dali, with everyday objects warped and weird.... And I'm dripping like a Dali clock. It's a billion degrees in Tokyo. Walking in the humid air feels like pushing through heavy curtains. I smell different scents with every step: rice, teriyaki sauce, fish, and perfume." I think this quote captures the essence of Tokyo and how alive it is. It also shows Violet's love for art by using an art related metaphor and how disoriented she is in this new environment.
This quote made me think about how anything can be acheived no matter how big the task. It may seem unrealistic for a sixteen year old to find a van Gogh painting, but Violet persisted and eventually succeeded. This can be applied in our lives too, whether it's small things like passing a test, or finding a priceless painting. The key is to be passionate about what you're doing and put in the effort.
January 30, 2021
I studied Asian Art in college, I speak some Japanese, I love Van Gogh, and I enjoy heist stories. I thought Tokyo Heist by Diana Renn was going to be right up my alley, but it mostly didn't work for me. Pretty much all of that goes back to the characters. I just can't believe they'd be able to accomplish anything they do in this novel.
July 15, 2012
*review published on Mundie Moms on 7/15/2012*
http://mundiemoms.blogspot.com/2012/0...
I love heist plots. They’re my absolute favorite and what I like best about reading them is the anticipation in wondering just how all the pieces of the puzzle will fall. My favorite theme in stories is anything involving families. Diana Renn combines both of those in Tokyo Heist and boy, does she do it well.
What I loved most about Diana’s book is that it’s not told from the traditional heist point-of-view (usually the people pulling off the heist), rather it’s told from the character who is trying to solve the mystery of who stole the sketches. The character of Violet, the sleuthing protagonist, is downright adorable. I loved her voice and her inner determination. I also loved how her skills in drawing her graphic story, Kimono Girl, gave her a better understanding of her artist father. Her father, a single dad who is paid handsomely to create a mural for a wealthy, Japanese businessman (the very one whose Van Gogh sketches were stolen), immerses himself in his art and demands no distractions. This leaves Violet and her quirky friend, Reika, free to pursue leads on the investigation.
Diana also creates believable stakes. After all, Violet and Reika are teenagers and yet, they find themselves stumbling upon and logically connecting clues that the adults investigating the crime missed or simply didn’t know existed. I liked the fact that they worked hard at finding the logic thread in the mystery.
I must admit that I fell for a red herring or two and when the crime was solved by Violet, I did breathe out a relieved, “HA! I knew it!” I think that’s all part of the fun of second guessing this type of plot.
As for art, well, the theme is handled so well. The book is carefully researched and the Author’s Note in the back explains how Diana was inspired to write the history of the artwork mentioned.
For those of us who love a little romance, don’t worry, there’s just enough of it in Tokyo Heist to make it interesting. And those moments are presented with a sweetness that still makes me smile when I remember it.
If you’re looking for a good mystery with a great setting (it makes me want to visit Tokyo even more), and an artistic protagonist who will not give up until the right criminal is found, you will love Tokyo Heist. This heist story is beach-bag worthy. Be sure to pick it up at your favorite bookstore or library.
http://mundiemoms.blogspot.com/2012/0...
I love heist plots. They’re my absolute favorite and what I like best about reading them is the anticipation in wondering just how all the pieces of the puzzle will fall. My favorite theme in stories is anything involving families. Diana Renn combines both of those in Tokyo Heist and boy, does she do it well.
What I loved most about Diana’s book is that it’s not told from the traditional heist point-of-view (usually the people pulling off the heist), rather it’s told from the character who is trying to solve the mystery of who stole the sketches. The character of Violet, the sleuthing protagonist, is downright adorable. I loved her voice and her inner determination. I also loved how her skills in drawing her graphic story, Kimono Girl, gave her a better understanding of her artist father. Her father, a single dad who is paid handsomely to create a mural for a wealthy, Japanese businessman (the very one whose Van Gogh sketches were stolen), immerses himself in his art and demands no distractions. This leaves Violet and her quirky friend, Reika, free to pursue leads on the investigation.
Diana also creates believable stakes. After all, Violet and Reika are teenagers and yet, they find themselves stumbling upon and logically connecting clues that the adults investigating the crime missed or simply didn’t know existed. I liked the fact that they worked hard at finding the logic thread in the mystery.
I must admit that I fell for a red herring or two and when the crime was solved by Violet, I did breathe out a relieved, “HA! I knew it!” I think that’s all part of the fun of second guessing this type of plot.
As for art, well, the theme is handled so well. The book is carefully researched and the Author’s Note in the back explains how Diana was inspired to write the history of the artwork mentioned.
For those of us who love a little romance, don’t worry, there’s just enough of it in Tokyo Heist to make it interesting. And those moments are presented with a sweetness that still makes me smile when I remember it.
If you’re looking for a good mystery with a great setting (it makes me want to visit Tokyo even more), and an artistic protagonist who will not give up until the right criminal is found, you will love Tokyo Heist. This heist story is beach-bag worthy. Be sure to pick it up at your favorite bookstore or library.
April 24, 2014
I really hate giving a book one star, but after long deliberations (between one or two stars), I came to the conclusion that one star is an accurate, honest rating. I gave it one star because the plot is scattered everywhere, Violet was suppose to be sixteen but acted like a ten year old, and the pace was too slow from beginning to end. Also, there were too many different supporting character coming and going without a lot of them having any apparent value to the plot. Most of the characters appear for a chapter and then disappear until the end of the book. The book briefly starts in Seattle, where the van Gogh sketches are stolen, but quickly moves to Tokyo. I wish the novel would have just started in Japan, instead of beginning in Seattle, where very little happened.
On top of that, the author wasn't stingy enough with the clues and gave too many too soon in the book. With clues you have to tease the reader with a little, but hold a lot until the end. Plus, the description says that it's a mystery/thriller book, but in reality, the book's main focus is manga. The mystery/thriller is the subplot. It had a double story plot were the story would switch from Violet to Violet's character "Kimono Girl," and Kimono Girl would just repeat what Violet had just done in the previous chapter, except with super powers. The manga part would have been cooler if it had actually been an anime comic strip, instead of just being written like the rest of the book.
What I liked about the book is the Japanese culture. I can tell she did a lot of research from the use of Japanese words and the description of Tokyo. The author described Tokyo with such detail that it was very easy to picture. I also like the cover illustration of a Tokyo street with yellow crime scene tape. In the novel, Violet explains that van Gogh's inspiration for "Langlois Bridge at Arles," series came from Japanese woodcut prints. Which was a very interesting aspect of the book. The relationship between Violet and her father is strained throughout the novel which adds realism to the book.
The disorganization of the story, the abundance of inconsequential supporting characters, and the weak plot of the book, outweighs the good in this novel. I wouldn't recommend reading it because I wanted to shake Violet throughout the whole book saying to her, "Why did you do that?!?" or, "How could you miss that?!?"
On top of that, the author wasn't stingy enough with the clues and gave too many too soon in the book. With clues you have to tease the reader with a little, but hold a lot until the end. Plus, the description says that it's a mystery/thriller book, but in reality, the book's main focus is manga. The mystery/thriller is the subplot. It had a double story plot were the story would switch from Violet to Violet's character "Kimono Girl," and Kimono Girl would just repeat what Violet had just done in the previous chapter, except with super powers. The manga part would have been cooler if it had actually been an anime comic strip, instead of just being written like the rest of the book.
What I liked about the book is the Japanese culture. I can tell she did a lot of research from the use of Japanese words and the description of Tokyo. The author described Tokyo with such detail that it was very easy to picture. I also like the cover illustration of a Tokyo street with yellow crime scene tape. In the novel, Violet explains that van Gogh's inspiration for "Langlois Bridge at Arles," series came from Japanese woodcut prints. Which was a very interesting aspect of the book. The relationship between Violet and her father is strained throughout the novel which adds realism to the book.
The disorganization of the story, the abundance of inconsequential supporting characters, and the weak plot of the book, outweighs the good in this novel. I wouldn't recommend reading it because I wanted to shake Violet throughout the whole book saying to her, "Why did you do that?!?" or, "How could you miss that?!?"
July 2, 2024
Wayyyyyy too slow
July 13, 2012
Similar Books: Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday, The Liar Society by Lisa & Laura Roecker
I'm not big into mysteries. But there was just something about this blurb that made me want to read this book. Maybe it was the mention of a protagonist who reads manga, or maybe it was the fact that 2/3 of the book takes place in Japan - I don't know, but I had to read this book when I saw the blurb last year. And thankfully, I wasn't disappointed.
This is one of my first ventures into YA mystery territory, and now I'm thinking I might need to give more mystery books a chance. I really enjoyed watching this story unfold, watching Violet really come into her own as she unraveled the mystery of the stolen art. The mystery aspect of this book reminded me a little of the movie "Oceans 11" for some reason...not sure why, but that's okay because I loved that movie!
But really, my favorite part of the book was the fact that it took place in Japan. As I've said before, I love it when books are set in foreign countries. It just makes the story come alive for me. I don't know a lot about Japan or Japanese culture, and I felt like this book does a good job of explaining a lot of cultural customs and history of the region.
I also liked that there is basically zero romance in this book. It maybe makes an appearance on like 5 pages total. It was nice to have a book that was exciting and readable that didn't have anything to do with romance. Hard to find those - at least for me, who loves a good romance! :)
My only complaint was that I sometimes felt the book dragged a little. There were a few bits in the middle that were a little slow. Also, I figured out who the bad guy was early on, so I wish it had been more difficult to figure out. Besides that, though, this was a great read! I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a good 2012 debut, a fun mystery, or a book set in a different country.
I'm not big into mysteries. But there was just something about this blurb that made me want to read this book. Maybe it was the mention of a protagonist who reads manga, or maybe it was the fact that 2/3 of the book takes place in Japan - I don't know, but I had to read this book when I saw the blurb last year. And thankfully, I wasn't disappointed.
This is one of my first ventures into YA mystery territory, and now I'm thinking I might need to give more mystery books a chance. I really enjoyed watching this story unfold, watching Violet really come into her own as she unraveled the mystery of the stolen art. The mystery aspect of this book reminded me a little of the movie "Oceans 11" for some reason...not sure why, but that's okay because I loved that movie!
But really, my favorite part of the book was the fact that it took place in Japan. As I've said before, I love it when books are set in foreign countries. It just makes the story come alive for me. I don't know a lot about Japan or Japanese culture, and I felt like this book does a good job of explaining a lot of cultural customs and history of the region.
I also liked that there is basically zero romance in this book. It maybe makes an appearance on like 5 pages total. It was nice to have a book that was exciting and readable that didn't have anything to do with romance. Hard to find those - at least for me, who loves a good romance! :)
My only complaint was that I sometimes felt the book dragged a little. There were a few bits in the middle that were a little slow. Also, I figured out who the bad guy was early on, so I wish it had been more difficult to figure out. Besides that, though, this was a great read! I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a good 2012 debut, a fun mystery, or a book set in a different country.
July 27, 2018
Tokyo Heist was a fun book to read. There were twists and turns and lots of interesting settings that will make you feel like you were there to see it all happen.
Picking up a book is a bit like entering a new relationship. There are questions. There's uncertainty. Will I like this book? What if we're not compatible? What if this book turns out to be a total creep and looks nothing like their obviously photoshopped profile picture? Eeek!
The first thing I look for in a book is writing voice. Is this a voice that I can spend time with? Does the author's narration make my head swim with questions, thoughts and ideas that will keep me engaged throughout the entire story? Second is character. I want characters that I would follow to the end of the earth just to hear how their day went. Third is Plot. This is where the relationship has really taken hold and now I'm leaving a toothbrush at their apartment. Plot is the journey that the story takes us on, and it'd better be a good one. Last comes Story. Did the narrative all come together an leave me longing for more? Are those wedding bells I hear?
Anyway, this is my process for reviewing a book. Let's see how Tokyo Heist and I got along:
1. Writing Voice: Tokyo Heist is written in first-person, present-tense which helps keep tension in the story because everything feels so immediate. The writing puts you right into the POV of the character and the next thing you know, you're a 17 year old misfit from Seattle, with a penchant for manga. What? Don't look at me like that.
2. Character: The main character, Violet Rossi, is fun to follow around, she has some complex relationships with her father and best friend. And she has a lot of figuring out to do. The characters are memorable and, in some ways, relatable.
3. Plot: Spoiler alert, it's about a heist. It's not so much a heist story as in - you're trying to figure out how to get the stolen painting out of the museum and smuggle it back into Seattle disguised as manga - type of heist. But it is about Violet trying to figure out where the stolen painting is before bad things happen. It's fun and it will keep you guessing.
4. Story: I enjoyed reading Tokyo heist. There is a parallel story within the story about a manga character called, Kimono girl. This brought an interesting element into the story in a way I'd never seen done before.
People are more important than Art. or maybe it's the other way around. I love how the story explored this question and showed the different dimensions of this theme.
I enjoyed the story. I hope that you do too.
Picking up a book is a bit like entering a new relationship. There are questions. There's uncertainty. Will I like this book? What if we're not compatible? What if this book turns out to be a total creep and looks nothing like their obviously photoshopped profile picture? Eeek!
The first thing I look for in a book is writing voice. Is this a voice that I can spend time with? Does the author's narration make my head swim with questions, thoughts and ideas that will keep me engaged throughout the entire story? Second is character. I want characters that I would follow to the end of the earth just to hear how their day went. Third is Plot. This is where the relationship has really taken hold and now I'm leaving a toothbrush at their apartment. Plot is the journey that the story takes us on, and it'd better be a good one. Last comes Story. Did the narrative all come together an leave me longing for more? Are those wedding bells I hear?
Anyway, this is my process for reviewing a book. Let's see how Tokyo Heist and I got along:
1. Writing Voice: Tokyo Heist is written in first-person, present-tense which helps keep tension in the story because everything feels so immediate. The writing puts you right into the POV of the character and the next thing you know, you're a 17 year old misfit from Seattle, with a penchant for manga. What? Don't look at me like that.
2. Character: The main character, Violet Rossi, is fun to follow around, she has some complex relationships with her father and best friend. And she has a lot of figuring out to do. The characters are memorable and, in some ways, relatable.
3. Plot: Spoiler alert, it's about a heist. It's not so much a heist story as in - you're trying to figure out how to get the stolen painting out of the museum and smuggle it back into Seattle disguised as manga - type of heist. But it is about Violet trying to figure out where the stolen painting is before bad things happen. It's fun and it will keep you guessing.
4. Story: I enjoyed reading Tokyo heist. There is a parallel story within the story about a manga character called, Kimono girl. This brought an interesting element into the story in a way I'd never seen done before.
People are more important than Art. or maybe it's the other way around. I love how the story explored this question and showed the different dimensions of this theme.
I enjoyed the story. I hope that you do too.
November 27, 2019
I thought that this book was so unique! I loved the main character and almost all of the others too! I really enjoyed how Violet (the main character) was so determined to solve the mystery, she thought that people would realized her and she wouldn’t be so invisible to everyone. Violet is an artist just like her dad and throughout the whole book she is always drawing/sketching about her own manga story or the mystery that’s going on around her. Violet was constantly worried about what people thought about her, she thought she was invisible and she wanted people to realize her. I thought the mystery was really cool, I loved how it was all about missing art pieces. Towards the end of the book was when it got pretty good, there was lots of action going on. I also thought the ending was good too, in the end Violet got what she really wanted. I really enjoyed reading this book and I thought the story was very cool (the mystery was in Tokyo) but I do think that the story is a little unrealistic. Overall I really enjoyed this book and I would defiantly recommend it :)
September 20, 2024
Not a personal favorite, but good plot
June 14, 2012
TOKYO HEIST, available today, is Diana Renn's first novel. It's a mystery that takes protagonist Violet Rossi from the streets of Seattle to the ryokan of Kyoto. At first, I was very, very worried that I would hate TOKYO HEIST. The press release claims, "[I]t's the Di Vinci Code for the teen generation with an exotic Asian twist." That description made me cringe. Violet doesn't make the best first impression either. This is going to make me sound so old, but her bad work ethic annoyed me.
But the Asian part of TOKYO HEIST is more than an exotic background. The book begins shortly after a set of Van Gogh sketches are stolen from the Yamadas, who are employing Violet's father to paint a mural in their main office in Tokyo, Japan. Once Violet and her father go to Japan, almost all of the other characters are Japanese. Violet's fellow lady sleuth is Reika, a friend who is half-Japanese, half-American, and all happy to have someone she can speak her first language with. Even before the acknowledgements at the end of the novel, it is clear that Renn did her research. She pays attention to cultural detail.
As for Violet, she never realizes that her comic book store boss was normal rather than overbearing. (Seriously, being asked to stock the store and not spend your time doodling or talking with a friend? Totally reasonable. Her former boss even tells her about a comic contest she can enter.) Fortunately, that's a very minor character quibble and most people aren't going to care about it like me. Plus, she proves her mettle in other ways. She's dedicated to solving the mystery and protecting her father. She keeps working on her own comic, Kimono Girl, (including revising!) and helps the Yamadas catalog their art collection.
Kimono Girl often proves helpful to the investigation. As Violet creates a plot loosely based on real-world events, she makes connections she wouldn't have noticed consciously. I am a fan of stories-within-stories, so I liked following along with the fantastical action of Kimono Girl as well as the more realistic TOKYO HEIST.
The book does really get moving once the action moves to Japan. You see, the sketches were stolen, but the painting they were practice for is still missing. It should be somewhere in the Yamadas' possession, but they haven't found it. And a yakuza boss wants the painting - or else. The FBI does what they can to help, but the Yamadas prefer not to involve the police and undercover investigations are illegal in Japan.
The Japan section is also where Violet's love interest drops out of view. Edge is a hipster and filmmaker wannabe who barely shows up. I don't think TOKYO HEIST would've suffered by cutting the obligatory love interest. TOKYO HEIST a mystery, yakuza, and a cool (female) best friend. Who needs a boy?
I thought TOKYO HEIST was fun. It's a good summer read, especially if you have a long plane ride ahead of you. (Just don't start thinking everyone around you is in on an international art heist.) I'm interested in reading whatever Renn does next, because she shows promise.
But the Asian part of TOKYO HEIST is more than an exotic background. The book begins shortly after a set of Van Gogh sketches are stolen from the Yamadas, who are employing Violet's father to paint a mural in their main office in Tokyo, Japan. Once Violet and her father go to Japan, almost all of the other characters are Japanese. Violet's fellow lady sleuth is Reika, a friend who is half-Japanese, half-American, and all happy to have someone she can speak her first language with. Even before the acknowledgements at the end of the novel, it is clear that Renn did her research. She pays attention to cultural detail.
As for Violet, she never realizes that her comic book store boss was normal rather than overbearing. (Seriously, being asked to stock the store and not spend your time doodling or talking with a friend? Totally reasonable. Her former boss even tells her about a comic contest she can enter.) Fortunately, that's a very minor character quibble and most people aren't going to care about it like me. Plus, she proves her mettle in other ways. She's dedicated to solving the mystery and protecting her father. She keeps working on her own comic, Kimono Girl, (including revising!) and helps the Yamadas catalog their art collection.
Kimono Girl often proves helpful to the investigation. As Violet creates a plot loosely based on real-world events, she makes connections she wouldn't have noticed consciously. I am a fan of stories-within-stories, so I liked following along with the fantastical action of Kimono Girl as well as the more realistic TOKYO HEIST.
The book does really get moving once the action moves to Japan. You see, the sketches were stolen, but the painting they were practice for is still missing. It should be somewhere in the Yamadas' possession, but they haven't found it. And a yakuza boss wants the painting - or else. The FBI does what they can to help, but the Yamadas prefer not to involve the police and undercover investigations are illegal in Japan.
The Japan section is also where Violet's love interest drops out of view. Edge is a hipster and filmmaker wannabe who barely shows up. I don't think TOKYO HEIST would've suffered by cutting the obligatory love interest. TOKYO HEIST a mystery, yakuza, and a cool (female) best friend. Who needs a boy?
I thought TOKYO HEIST was fun. It's a good summer read, especially if you have a long plane ride ahead of you. (Just don't start thinking everyone around you is in on an international art heist.) I'm interested in reading whatever Renn does next, because she shows promise.
September 28, 2014
You would think that a story about a girl recovering stolen art to give to a gang boss in Japan would be really interesting and exciting. In theory, it would be, but the reality is that this story was very dry and rather uninteresting.
The things that I loved about this story was the fact that this wasn't set in the United States and that there were so many characters that weren't white people. I loved getting submersed in Japanese culture and learning about certain customs and art, it was really great and the most interesting part of the story.
And then there was the fact that the romance was shoved to the side in this story and the author instead focused on the relationship between Reika and Violet, something that's not often seen in young adult fiction these days.
But my love stops there.
I don't know what it was, but the writing style was just very dry and uninteresting to me, even when these big plot twists were being discovered, I wasn't very excited or blown away. I thought Violet was a very boring character, not to mention very slow. Maybe it was just the fact that the story was very predictable but she was really slow to catch on to the obvious and figure everything out.
I generally suck at figuring out mysteries before I get to the end of a book so for me of all people to figure out that Hideki was the guy they were looking for says something about the writing.
And besides, she has had absolutely no previous experience with crime-solving, what on earth gave Violet the idea that she was qualified to even get involved in the investigation? Not to mention the fact that there's really no reason for her to even get involved, Kenji and Mitsue's problem is their problem, not Violet's so why is she sticking her nose in other peoples business?
Sure, there's a reward involved but come on, that's what is motivating you to get yourself wrapped up in something which could get you killed? And besides, I seriously doubt that the FBI of all people would be totally okay with divulging information to a sixteen-year-old girl that mentions manga every five seconds (because heaven forbid we forget that she likes manga).
Maybe this is just me, but I didn't really enjoy reading Tokyo Heist, and that was mostly due to the unbelievable circumstances that the characters found themselves in.
The things that I loved about this story was the fact that this wasn't set in the United States and that there were so many characters that weren't white people. I loved getting submersed in Japanese culture and learning about certain customs and art, it was really great and the most interesting part of the story.
And then there was the fact that the romance was shoved to the side in this story and the author instead focused on the relationship between Reika and Violet, something that's not often seen in young adult fiction these days.
But my love stops there.
I don't know what it was, but the writing style was just very dry and uninteresting to me, even when these big plot twists were being discovered, I wasn't very excited or blown away. I thought Violet was a very boring character, not to mention very slow. Maybe it was just the fact that the story was very predictable but she was really slow to catch on to the obvious and figure everything out.
I generally suck at figuring out mysteries before I get to the end of a book so for me of all people to figure out that Hideki was the guy they were looking for says something about the writing.
And besides, she has had absolutely no previous experience with crime-solving, what on earth gave Violet the idea that she was qualified to even get involved in the investigation? Not to mention the fact that there's really no reason for her to even get involved, Kenji and Mitsue's problem is their problem, not Violet's so why is she sticking her nose in other peoples business?
Sure, there's a reward involved but come on, that's what is motivating you to get yourself wrapped up in something which could get you killed? And besides, I seriously doubt that the FBI of all people would be totally okay with divulging information to a sixteen-year-old girl that mentions manga every five seconds (because heaven forbid we forget that she likes manga).
Maybe this is just me, but I didn't really enjoy reading Tokyo Heist, and that was mostly due to the unbelievable circumstances that the characters found themselves in.
January 20, 2012
I thought Tokyo Heist was great fun- I especially like the whole Seattle connection: Fremont troll, Space Needle, art galleries, comic stores...
When Violet, a manga reading, comic creating artist, goes to stay with her mural painting dad for the summer, she is plunged into an international art theft. Her dad has been commissioned to paint a mural for a Japanese company, the owner of which has had two small Van Gogh's stolen from him.
On the night of her dad's gallery showing, Violet sees two large men hanging out behind the shop. The next day, while following Dad's friend (sure that she has something to do with it), Violet and Edge, the boy she really likes, accidentally videotape the same two men who were outside the gallery. Could they have something to do with the mugging of one of the gallery folk last night? Could they be following the woman as she leads them to the paintings?
Violet knows there is something wonky happening at Yamada's corporation and with a free trip to Japan, she's sure she can figure it out.
This was really fun and I think I learned a bit more about Japanese culture than I knew before. Violet and Reika, a friend now living in Tokyo, spend their time investigating the heist, shopping, and basically doing what the proper entities can't or won't do. There are encounters with the Yakuza, hidden family stories (Japanese and American), broken hearts and betrayals. It was a little reminiscent of the Blue Balliet mysteries, but not so much that it was distracting or obvious. I really liked the descriptions of Japan from the crowds and life in Tokyo to the quietude and ancient traditions of an inn in the mountains.
Great for readers 11 and up. Viking. Available in June, 2012.
When Violet, a manga reading, comic creating artist, goes to stay with her mural painting dad for the summer, she is plunged into an international art theft. Her dad has been commissioned to paint a mural for a Japanese company, the owner of which has had two small Van Gogh's stolen from him.
On the night of her dad's gallery showing, Violet sees two large men hanging out behind the shop. The next day, while following Dad's friend (sure that she has something to do with it), Violet and Edge, the boy she really likes, accidentally videotape the same two men who were outside the gallery. Could they have something to do with the mugging of one of the gallery folk last night? Could they be following the woman as she leads them to the paintings?
Violet knows there is something wonky happening at Yamada's corporation and with a free trip to Japan, she's sure she can figure it out.
This was really fun and I think I learned a bit more about Japanese culture than I knew before. Violet and Reika, a friend now living in Tokyo, spend their time investigating the heist, shopping, and basically doing what the proper entities can't or won't do. There are encounters with the Yakuza, hidden family stories (Japanese and American), broken hearts and betrayals. It was a little reminiscent of the Blue Balliet mysteries, but not so much that it was distracting or obvious. I really liked the descriptions of Japan from the crowds and life in Tokyo to the quietude and ancient traditions of an inn in the mountains.
Great for readers 11 and up. Viking. Available in June, 2012.
January 6, 2016
I reached 34% before I finally had to hang it up. The believability of this book was practically zero for me. I can believe the Yakuza being involved with criminal activities because they are organized crime and all but the main character destroyed what any other believability there might be to the story.
She's a naive teenager with no experience whatsoever in crime beyond her own imagination. No family members who were police, detectives, etc. no friends who work I'm crime solving. She's just a daydreaming teenager who follows the most obvious clue whenever it appears and discards the previous one in the process. She did this a couple times in the short time I read this book.
Also her point of view can be very annoying at times as she doesn't really stay focused and can drift off into thoughts or memories at what seems to be the drop of a hat. Now plenty of other books do this I'm sure but here it does little or nothing to help further the plot or draw the story out.
Her obsession with Japan is just there. It isn't really necessary and doesn't feel vital to developing the story's plot.
The other characters tend to come off as flat and uninteresting or in the case of Edge just trying far too hard to be interesting which only made him feel less so to me.
The writing style and the story as a whole felt to me like the author was just trying way too hard. None of it felt natural or believable to me.
She's a naive teenager with no experience whatsoever in crime beyond her own imagination. No family members who were police, detectives, etc. no friends who work I'm crime solving. She's just a daydreaming teenager who follows the most obvious clue whenever it appears and discards the previous one in the process. She did this a couple times in the short time I read this book.
Also her point of view can be very annoying at times as she doesn't really stay focused and can drift off into thoughts or memories at what seems to be the drop of a hat. Now plenty of other books do this I'm sure but here it does little or nothing to help further the plot or draw the story out.
Her obsession with Japan is just there. It isn't really necessary and doesn't feel vital to developing the story's plot.
The other characters tend to come off as flat and uninteresting or in the case of Edge just trying far too hard to be interesting which only made him feel less so to me.
The writing style and the story as a whole felt to me like the author was just trying way too hard. None of it felt natural or believable to me.
June 9, 2012
Originally Posted Here
Sixteen-year-old Violet Rossi is on her way to Japan for her dad's new mural project. A couple of days before they leave, she learns about a set of stolen van Gogh sketches. Once in the mysterious world of Tokyo, where she stands out, Violet and her best friend Reika set out to capture the art thieves and rescue the art. Violet's not doing it for the reward money the Yamada's have promised to anyone who finds their missing painting - she's doing it to get her dad to finally see her.
Diana Renn's debut novel, Tokyo Heist is amazing from the first page on. She really knows how to describe the characters and make them stand off the page, along with describing the beautiful scenery's in Japan. I absolutely loved bodyguard Yoshi, kind Mitsue and Kenji Yamada, and talkative Reika. Diana Renn's writing is stunning and flawless. I really liked the cover with its brightly lit, bustling portrayal of the busy city of Tokyo.
All in all I can't wait to read more from Diana Renn. Filled with adventure, action and a hint of humor, Tokyo Heist is just begging to be picked up and loved.
Sixteen-year-old Violet Rossi is on her way to Japan for her dad's new mural project. A couple of days before they leave, she learns about a set of stolen van Gogh sketches. Once in the mysterious world of Tokyo, where she stands out, Violet and her best friend Reika set out to capture the art thieves and rescue the art. Violet's not doing it for the reward money the Yamada's have promised to anyone who finds their missing painting - she's doing it to get her dad to finally see her.
Diana Renn's debut novel, Tokyo Heist is amazing from the first page on. She really knows how to describe the characters and make them stand off the page, along with describing the beautiful scenery's in Japan. I absolutely loved bodyguard Yoshi, kind Mitsue and Kenji Yamada, and talkative Reika. Diana Renn's writing is stunning and flawless. I really liked the cover with its brightly lit, bustling portrayal of the busy city of Tokyo.
All in all I can't wait to read more from Diana Renn. Filled with adventure, action and a hint of humor, Tokyo Heist is just begging to be picked up and loved.
June 13, 2012
"Tokyo Heist" by Diana Renn is a shining success, from the cover of the book, with its title encased in what looks like neon yellow police tape, to the final page with its satisfying and touching conclusion.
The story is about Violet, who is a different kind of 16-year-old. She loves manga, wearing scarves made from kimonos, and anything Japanese.
So when her artist father (with whom she's spending the summer) is offered a job painting a mural in Japan, she is thrilled that she gets to go, too.
Before they leave, there is a robbery, her father's house is broken into, and the Japanese mafia are seen following her dad's girlfriend.
Violet becomes involved when she decides she'd like to find out where the missing artwork (a Van Gogh painting) went. She also includes the story of what is happening to her and those around her in a series of manga drawings -- her hobby.
Her observations and conclusions help the authorities figure out what is happening.
Read the whole review at: http://www.examiner.com/review/tokyo-...
The story is about Violet, who is a different kind of 16-year-old. She loves manga, wearing scarves made from kimonos, and anything Japanese.
So when her artist father (with whom she's spending the summer) is offered a job painting a mural in Japan, she is thrilled that she gets to go, too.
Before they leave, there is a robbery, her father's house is broken into, and the Japanese mafia are seen following her dad's girlfriend.
Violet becomes involved when she decides she'd like to find out where the missing artwork (a Van Gogh painting) went. She also includes the story of what is happening to her and those around her in a series of manga drawings -- her hobby.
Her observations and conclusions help the authorities figure out what is happening.
Read the whole review at: http://www.examiner.com/review/tokyo-...
December 22, 2014
This is a really fun, really engaging mystery with a lot of elements I enjoyed. 1.) artist protagonist, so there's fun stuff about the creative process 2.)Japan, so cool, interesting settings that allow for some awesome armchair travel 3.)complicated but important father-daughter relationship.
Don't let the somewhat hardcore-looking cover art fool you: this is a pretty lighthearted and gore-free mystery.
I would now like to address some of the complaints about the novel's lack of realism that I've seen in other reviews. People. Right on the back of the book it says, "Violet searches for the missing van Gogh in a quest that takes her from the Seattle Art Museum to the mafia-infested streets of Tokyo..."
So you know off the bat that this is about a teenage girl solving an international art theft. It's an inherently unrealistic scenario. You knew what you were getting into: if you don't want to meet the book on its own terms, that's your choice, but that's your problem, not the book's.
Don't let the somewhat hardcore-looking cover art fool you: this is a pretty lighthearted and gore-free mystery.
I would now like to address some of the complaints about the novel's lack of realism that I've seen in other reviews. People. Right on the back of the book it says, "Violet searches for the missing van Gogh in a quest that takes her from the Seattle Art Museum to the mafia-infested streets of Tokyo..."
So you know off the bat that this is about a teenage girl solving an international art theft. It's an inherently unrealistic scenario. You knew what you were getting into: if you don't want to meet the book on its own terms, that's your choice, but that's your problem, not the book's.
March 11, 2014
Feeding my obsession for east Asia, this art heist adventure satisfied me completely. The characters are lovable, the mystery is well executed, with a few contrived moments for the convenience of the plot. I expecially like how the protagonist uses her sketchbook to process what she is observing and learning through drawing it out as a manga. It was a little hard to believe that she knew absolutely no Japanese, since we learn that she is obsessed with Japan. Most kids will make the effort to learn more than "ganbatte" and can say hello, goodbye, thank you, etc. Especially true since one of her best friends speaks fluent Japanese.
March 23, 2021
Tokyo heist is about a 16-year-old girl, violet. Her dad is an artist and gets excited when her dad gets a job in Japan to make art for some clients but turns sour when a sketch by van Gogh is stolen by a Japanese gang and violet works tirelessly to find it, but they found it, all their lives are in danger.
I liked that the author didn't make violet do all the detective work adding side characters. I didn't like how she knew Japanese culture through reading some manga, and with no knowledge of detective work, she worked out lots of things. overall I enjoyed this book
I liked that the author didn't make violet do all the detective work adding side characters. I didn't like how she knew Japanese culture through reading some manga, and with no knowledge of detective work, she worked out lots of things. overall I enjoyed this book
July 8, 2014
I (for the most part) enjoyed this book, from cover to cover. I am very sad to say, but let me start with the bad. I felt like this book sometimes fell into the situation where the book would rock me too sleep. But there were also a lot of pros. If you believe that this book had and interesting plot, you are correct. Even though this book was placed in modern day time, it still has thrill seeking moments which will keep you on your toes. This is great for people who exists in the world of geek fandom!
January 2, 2015
This story is about:
A mystery about missing piece of Art.
A struggling relationship between a Father and Daughter
Having a good friend in your life.
A boy - but not instant love.
A trip to Japan.
I didn't like the main character in this book at the start of the story. However as the story moved on Violet became less annoying.
Favourite verse
"It's different rain from Seattle rain. Quieter,softer,like an unseen hand is scattering uncooked rice.
A mystery about missing piece of Art.
A struggling relationship between a Father and Daughter
Having a good friend in your life.
A boy - but not instant love.
A trip to Japan.
I didn't like the main character in this book at the start of the story. However as the story moved on Violet became less annoying.
Favourite verse
"It's different rain from Seattle rain. Quieter,softer,like an unseen hand is scattering uncooked rice.
October 7, 2015
Tokyo Heist is a very interesting crime book by Diana Renn. As this is her first novel this book has some cool characters that fit with the book. I love how the way how it was just a regular day but then suddenly something really interesting would happen. The book made me feel engaged in it so I never got bored of it and I enjoyed reading it. I love how the storyline goes which is very interesting. I highly recommend this book to all the people that like crime books.
September 7, 2016
This book was a fun, light read. Don't expect a lot of depth, be ready to suspend your belief a bit (the nerdy 16 year old sure finds herself in amazing situations and with a lot of influence), and you'll enjoy it. I loved that the main character draws manga (I would love to read "Kimono Girl" if it were real!) and is a white girl nerding it out in Japan for the first time. All the art-heist stuff was just fun on the side.
August 24, 2012
Awe. Some!!!
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