Sant Jordi is here and the book day most anticipated by bibliophiles. Don't know which book to give? Here we bring you our recommendations!
Japanese literature symbolizes a vast cosmos full of intense cultural tones, customs, roots and endless elements that engage both new readers as well as those with more experience.
As is tradition every year, the streets of Catalan cities and towns are filled with roses and books, waiting to be given as gifts to transport those who dare to read them to a world of fantasies and stories. In this event, I prefer to transport you on a literate route through three captivating pieces that encapsulate the fundamentals and breadth of the Japanese cultural heritage: "Stories from Japan", "The enigmas of the Kamogawa inn" and "My days at the Morisaki store". These works will not only take you to secluded places and delve into interesting intrigues, but also provide you with a unique view of life and community in Japan. Keep up with me as we snoop around these precious writings!
1. Immerse yourself fully in the Japanese cultural essence through "Tales from Japan"
"Tales from Japan" will transport you to a world of adventure and magic with this compilation of traditional Japanese folk tales. From the most chilling to the most funny and poetic, these stories come to life with the vibrant contemporary illustrations that accompany them in this special edition.
Discover a selection of the most outstanding stories from the rich oriental tradition, spanning from India to Japan, with ancient cultures and legends that have endured to this day with the same vitality with which they were originally transmitted orally.
What we liked most : The book is very enjoyable because they are short stories. Perfect for readers who prefer lots of novelty and little monotony!
2. Embark on an unforgettable journey with "The Mysteries of Kamogawa Tavern" by Hisashi Kashiwai
In "The Mysteries of the Kamogawa Tavern", we are immersed in the adventures of a couple of unconventional detectives: a father and his daughter who run the Kamogawa Shokudo, a restaurant hidden in the alleys of Kyoto, always packed with customers. The secret of its success lies in its ability to prepare the exact dish that each diner craves and transports them to their past, something impossible to find anywhere else.
Through the confidences of their clients, those who want to relive magical moments from the past, masterfully recreate the dishes cooked by their loved ones. This charming novel is a delight in every sense, where the flavor of the dishes mixes with the emotions and mysteries that surround each story.
What we liked the most : The novel allows you to "taste" each of the dishes that are prepared. The natural and innocent mystery persists from beginning to end.
3. A praise to friendship from "My days at the Morisaki bookstore" by Satoshi Yagisawa
In "My days at the Morisaki bookstore", we are presented with a quiet corner, oblivious to time, a few steps from the subway station and large modern buildings. Rows and rows of shop windows full of books, new and not so new. Tatako, a twenty-five-year-old girl with a rather dull life, decides to approach the Morisaki bookstore, which has belonged to her family for three generations.
There, Tatako will end up living upstairs in her uncle's bookstore, with whom she will resume her relationship, while discovering the pleasure of reading.
What we liked the most : A simple story that makes you think that sometimes, when you least expect it, you find your place in the world.
A Literary Journey that will transport you to Japan
Giving interesting literature that provides value is not only a gesture of affection, but also a way to foster the passion for reading, which is increasingly forgotten. Books, and especially those of Japanese literature, open doors to new worlds and diverse knowledge, enriching the mind and soul of those who receive them. Additionally, by giving a book, you are giving yourself the opportunity to explore new ideas, get inspired, and enjoy moments of introspection and entertainment. Choose an option and enjoy the trip!