A young Belgian
woman is in Japan to earn money teaching French. One day, in answer to an advertisement she
had posted offering her services as a French teacher, she receives a phone call
form Rinri, a University student who needs extra tuition. He comes from a rich
family and is expected to follow in his father’s footsteps at jewellery school.
As the lessons continue they slowly grow closer. In due course they become
lovers and get engaged, despite his parents’ disapproval.
Author: Amélie
Nothomb was born on July 9, 1966 in Belgium. She is from a distinguished
Belgian political family. During her infancy she lived in Japan, China and
other Asian countries. Amélie has written twenty-two novels.
My thoughts: I
found this novel refreshing and inviting, a voyage to Japan and an insight into
Nippon culture through this romance between Rinri and a Belgian woman. Amélie
Nothomb draws the story from her time in Japan during the 90s highlighting the
differences and, at times, the clashes between Western and Japanese
cultures As I read this novel I always
had in mind my school friend M. who comes from Japan, a country I have never
visited but dream of getting to know one day.
I like this type of read - fictional but based in a cultural/ historical context from which you can learn something. Will send you tips soon for your travels - just a little overworked at the moment, but haven't forgotten you. ;-)
ReplyDeleteHello Monica, sorry for the delay... I was traveling...
ReplyDeleteThank you SO much for the proposals.
We will definitely choose: The Majestic (loved straight away when I read your post a while ago) and Tanjong Jara Resort Terengganu instead of The Datai because I spent a dreamlike holidays in The Andaman Resort – Datai Bay two years ago. Have a lovely day ;-)