ModCloth's Shelf Life discussion

Tell us what you think!

I'm nearly done with it and have LOVED it. So many mid-twenty-something coming-of-age-type novels go for the stock, static characters, but I think this book's characters are richly drawn, unique, and completely authentic. Of course they are flawed, but their hopelessness and sincerity gives redeems them, and has you rooting for them throughout, while at the same time wondering what they'll wind up getting themselves into next.

My favorite character by far has been Hiro. I love his obsession with English and karaoke, and his crazy pompadour. At times he's completely clueless, but that only makes him more vulnerable and loveable. His frequent letters informing protagonist Marina of all of the Japanese faux pas she's made are my favorite part of the book.

The book has been raved about in reviews for its absolutely hilarious moments, but it's also really achingly sincere and heartbreaking at times. The fact that Malena Watrous can pull off both so seamlessly is the mark of an extremely talented writer. I hope this isn't the last we've heard of her!

Did anyone else ever get a chance to read this?

Marisa - I agree with your assessment that there really are some heartbreaking moments to the story. I think in the end, that's what stuck with me more than the humor.

It took me a little while to warm up to Hiro, but he definitely proved himself worthy of my attention!
- Sarah, Fashion Writer

i've read it! i work for harper perennial, so you can take my comments with a grain of salt if you want, but I loved it. I went to Tokyo recently and appreciated it even more--Malena really captures the feel of japanese society.

My son spent some time in Japan. Do you think it would be enjoyed from the male pov?

i think it could be, as long as he's not averse to reading about a girl in her 20s.

Thanks! I've ordered it so if he doesn't take to it, I can read it.

Finished it last week. It really hit close to home as I was a participant in the JET Programme in Fukui Prefecture (just south of where the book is set) 10 years ago. The author really captured what it feels like to live in Japan and the difficulties (trash!) and struggles (gender roles, faux friendships) Western people, especially women, experience in rural Japan. It's refreshing to have this view as opposed to the popular, 'Lost in Translation' Japanese stereotypes of 'how modern, how strange yet hip' these people are. Will recommend it to all my ex-JET friends and prospective applicants!

I've lived abroad so I'm somewhat familiar with culture shock but from what my son tells me about Japan I ain't seen nothin' yet! So now I'm curious. Maybe I'll read it first.