7 best japanese language fiction

Japanese language fiction has a rich literary tradition that has contributed significantly to world literature. Here are some key aspects and notable authors associated with Japanese language fiction:

Classical Japanese Literature: Japanese literature has a long history dating back to the 8th century. Classical works like "The Tale of Genji" (written by Murasaki Shikibu) and "The Pillow Book" (by Sei Shonagon) are considered classics of Japanese literature.These texts are known for their intricate narratives and vivid depictions of court life.
Modern Japanese Literature: The Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century brought about significant changes in Japanese society and culture, including literature. Authors like Natsume Soseki (known for "I Am a Cat" and "Kokoro") and Ryunosuke Akutagawa (famous for "Rashomon") emerged during this period. Their works explored the psychological and social changes occurring in Japan.
Japanese Literature of the 20th Century: The 20th century saw the emergence of internationally acclaimed Japanese authors. Yukio Mishima is known for works like "The Temple of the Golden Pavilion" and "Confessions of a Mask." Kenzaburo Oe, a Nobel laureate, wrote influential novels such as "A Personal Matter" and "The Silent Cry." Haruki Murakami's surreal and contemporary fiction, including "Kafka on the Shore" and "Norwegian Wood," has gained global popularity.
Post-World War II Literature: Japan's experience during and after World War II influenced its literature significantly. Writers like Osamu Dazai ("No Longer Human") and Yasunari Kawabata (the first Japanese Nobel laureate for literature, known for "Snow Country") explored themes of alienation and the changing social landscape.
Contemporary Japanese Fiction: In recent years, contemporary Japanese literature has continued to captivate international readers. Authors like Yoko Ogawa ("The Housekeeper and the Professor"), Higashino Keigo ("The Devotion of Suspect X"), and Banana Yoshimoto ("Kitchen") have gained recognition for their unique storytelling and exploration of modern life.
Themes and Styles: Japanese literature often explores themes like identity, societal pressures, and the contrast between tradition and modernity. Many Japanese authors are known for their minimalist and introspective writing styles, which convey profound emotions and observations.
Translational Impact: Japanese literature has been widely translated into various languages, allowing readers around the world to access these literary treasures. Translators play a crucial role in bringing the nuances of the Japanese language and culture to a global audience.
Genres: Japanese fiction encompasses a wide range of genres, including historical fiction, science fiction (with luminaries like Higuchi Shinji and Sakyo Komatsu), and mystery (with figures like Edogawa Rampo). Manga and light novels are also significant contributions to contemporary Japanese fiction.

Japanese language fiction is known for its depth, cultural insights, and the ability to resonate with readers from diverse backgrounds. It continues to be an essential part of world literature, offering a glimpse into Japan's unique cultural and literary heritage.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best japanese language fiction on the market

C Programming Language, 2nd Edition

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

The C++ Programming Language, 4th Edition

Based on 657 reviews Check latest price

C++ in One Hour a Day, Sams Teach Yourself

Based on 294 reviews Check latest price

Learning C# by Developing Games with Unity 2020: An enjoyable and intuitive approach to getting started with C# programming and Unity, 5th Edition

Packt Publishing

Based on 75 reviews Check latest price

Product features

An interview with author Harrison Ferrone

We’ve updated all project files for the new Unity 2020 release and added an extra chapter covering intermediate C# collection types, including Stacks, Queues, and HashSets.

How can this book help you learn C# and Unity?

The book is written with someone new to programming and Unity in mind, so we start from the very beginning and build up to more advanced topics. The book’s approach and structure focus on eliminating all assumptions about the reader, so we cover many topics that are left out by other instructional material that’s available.

What was your objective in writing the book? And what are the key takeaways for readers?

My main objective for writing this book was to create a resource that I would have wanted when I started learning to program.

There are two key takeaways from this book: First, anyone can learn to program, and second, programming is a muscle - the only way to get better is to exercise it.

What makes this book different from other 'Learn C# with Unity' books?

Many of the resources, tutorials, and textbooks that I used to learn how to program made assumptions about basic concepts that weren’t clearly fully explained, leading to hours of independent searches for answers.

I also wanted to write a book that stayed with the basics and didn’t try and throw too much at the reader. I’d say this focus leads to a much better end product and learning experience.

The Book of Five Rings

Shambhala

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Displacement

First Second

Based on 95 reviews Check latest price

Product features

Author Q&A

Of course I hope that readers will get a broader understanding of Japanese American incarceration and what parts of American history get erased over time. But more generally, I hope people come away from Displacement understanding that community trauma, especially when caused by racist targeting, persists in myriad ways for generations. It is so important to fight back against bigoted policy actively and immediately, because the consequences of inaction are so far-reaching and damaging. More positively, I hope people see the power that memories can have when they are shared. It can be hard to do, but it's essential to keep the stories alive, not only for the healing of the community but for the country as a whole. Ignoring the past doesn't mean it stops affecting us, especially the most vulnerable among us. I hope readers feel empowered to share their stories and learn the stories of others, and use those memories as a tool against hatred.

What inspired you to write DISPLACEMENT?

Though it's a story I've wanted to tell for a long time, the 2016 election was really what inspired Displacement to take the shape it did. The Japanese American community has been very outspoken, especially since 2016, about their resistance to American concentration camps, and they continue to inspire me with their activism.

In what ways were the time travel genre and graphic novel format particularly well suited to explore this past?

I understood from the start that there were details of the past and of my grandmother's life that I would never know fully. A lot has been lost and I wanted to acknowledge that loss by using a fantastical element to tell the story. Likewise, comics are useful to indicate there is some fiction in this history, since the medium is so dialog-heavy.