If you hadn't noticed, unless a book is set in England or Ireland I don't wander too far away from the United States when reading my books. I am old & set in my ways. So when I heard that American Fuji was going to be our store's next book, I was a little torn between wanting to support my store or just assuming that I wouldn't like the book and just not read it.
I admit to being pleasantly surprised. It took me a week to read the book because of life getting in the way, but I really did enjoy the book!
Gaby Stanton is an expatriate living in Japan. For reasons she does not know, nor does she understand, she recently lost her job teaching English to students at the local University and has recently started working for a Fantasy Funeral home. A series of events has Gaby crossing paths with Alex Thorn. An American father who has come to Japan to find out what caused the death of his exchange student son. The two of them join forces and make their way through the Japanese culture to solve both of their mysteries. Will they find the answers they seek?
Sarah Backer has written a good book that takes an honest look at what it is like to be an American in a foreign land. The culture, the customs, the housing, the familial hierarchy is all so different from what American's are used to. The phrase "culture shock" has never been more appropriate. American Fuji will give you a little bit of exposure to what an Expat in Japan goes through, without the jet lag. It is well written, with engaging characters and a wonderful story. It is a story full of travel, mystery, and a little bit of romance. American Fuji is the perfect way to explore Japan without leaving the comfort of your couch! A good read that you are sure to enjoy!
This isn't a book I'd pick up just wandering the library, but your review makes it sound like a great read. I'm going to put it on my list!
Exactly! It is not a book that I would normally read, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Hey, thanks for your review! I wish I knew how to reach readers who would assume "oh, it's another Japan book" and walk on by instead of giving it a try. If you're interested in seeing some scenes from my real life in Japan that were described in American Fuji, please visit my blog at http://americanfuji.blogspot.com
Ms Backer, thank you for stopping by and saying hello. I will certainly check out your blog.
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