Book Review Kangaroo Notebook by Kobo Abe

Book Review – Kangaroo Notebook

Author: Kobo Abe

Translator: Maryellen Toman Mori 

Publisher: Alfred. A. Knopf, New Yoork, USA, 1996

ISBN: 0-679-42412-1 Pages: 183

A wild ride from start to finish

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This is the last novel by Kobo Abe before his death in 1993. It takes the reader on a fantastic journey from everyday life to a deep dream like state where we get to learn more about the main character who is an employee for an office supply firm who has recently suggested a new product, a Kangaroo Notebook which management like and want to reward him if he can put the idea into reality.

As he contemplates the idea he discovers he has a medical problem to deal with and the novel takes us along for the ride as he tries to discover the cause and gain a solution. We meet a host of interesting characters, places and recollections. He finally ends up in hospital with an unrelated condition where he gets some help from some unlikely strangers. 

A fun, crazy and creative dive into to the subconscious!

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Book Review – Kangaroo Notebook

Book Review The Kingdom by Fuminori Nakamura

Book Review 

The Kingdom by Fuminori Nakamura

This book is the sequel to his earlier book "The Thief" which was written from the male perspective whereas this book is written from the female perspective which is a great twist. The storylines are similar in that they are both set in Tokyo but characters and plot are very diferent.

One of the best things about Fuminori's writing is that he does not use cliches and builds unique blocks to build up and change story movements. There is no way to guess what is coming.

Symbolic references to the moon, fate and superstition standout as do the themes of darkness and abandonment.

We learn about the life, times and friends of Yurika a freelancer in the Tokyo underworld.

Authentic, fast paced and keeps you entertained until the end.

It would be great to see some of Fuminori's books made into movies in the future!

First book in the series

The second book in the series

Other books by Fuminori Nakamura

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Book Review Diary of a Mad Old Man by Junichiro Tanizaki

Book Review – Diary of a Mad Old Man by Junichiro Tanizaki

Author: Junichiro Tanizaki


Translator: Howard Hibbert


Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1988.


ISBN: 019-282137-7 Pages: 177






Insights into the challenges of aging in Japan






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A light funny and insightful novel that reveals the daily diary of a seventy seven year old gentleman and the challenges of old age as he battles pains and aches in his arms and legs and the effects of a mild stroke.






His obsession with his son’s wife adds a spice to the story as he tries to find situations where he can be with here, touch her and instruct her to do things he desires.






While his wife and family look on and don’t blink at his sexual desires and continue on unabated.






We learn of the complexities of family life and the strained relationships between siblings, husband and wife and the staff who assist the family such as a live in nurse.

Book Review – Diary of a Mad Old Man by Junichiro Tanizaki

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