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See: Loss. See Also: Love.
A tender, slyly comical, and shamelessly honest debut novel following a Japanese widow raising her son between worlds with the help of her Jewish mother-in-law as she wrestles with grief, loss, and—strangest of all—joy.
Shortly after her husband Levi’s untimely death, Kyoko decides to raise their young son, Alex, in San Francisco, rather than return to Japan. Her nosy yet loving Jewish mother-in-law, Bubbe, encourages her to find new love and abandon frugality but her own mother wants Kyoko to celebrate her now husbandless life. Always beside her is Alex, who lives confidently, no matter the circumstance.
Four sections of vignettes reflect Kyoko’s fluctuating emotional states—sometimes ugly, other times funny, but always uniquely hers. While freshly mourning Levi, Kyoko and Alex confront another death—that of Alex’s pet betta fish. Kyoko and Bubbe take a road trip to a psychic and discover that Kyoko carries bad karma. On visits back to Japan, Kyoko and her mother clash over how best to connect Alex with his Japanese heritage, and as Alex enters his teenage years and brings his first girlfriend home, Kyoko lets her imagination run wild as she worries about teen pregnancy.
In this openhearted and surprising novel about the choices and relationships that sustain us, there are times where Kyoko is lonely but never alone and others in which she is alone but never lonely. Through these moments, she learns how much more there is to herself in the wake of total and unexpected upheaval. Loss. See Love. is a testament to how grief isn’t a linear process but is a spiraling awareness of the vast range of human emotion we experience every day.
Shortly after her husband Levi’s untimely death, Kyoko decides to raise their young son, Alex, in San Francisco, rather than return to Japan. Her nosy yet loving Jewish mother-in-law, Bubbe, encourages her to find new love and abandon frugality but her own mother wants Kyoko to celebrate her now husbandless life. Always beside her is Alex, who lives confidently, no matter the circumstance.
Four sections of vignettes reflect Kyoko’s fluctuating emotional states—sometimes ugly, other times funny, but always uniquely hers. While freshly mourning Levi, Kyoko and Alex confront another death—that of Alex’s pet betta fish. Kyoko and Bubbe take a road trip to a psychic and discover that Kyoko carries bad karma. On visits back to Japan, Kyoko and her mother clash over how best to connect Alex with his Japanese heritage, and as Alex enters his teenage years and brings his first girlfriend home, Kyoko lets her imagination run wild as she worries about teen pregnancy.
In this openhearted and surprising novel about the choices and relationships that sustain us, there are times where Kyoko is lonely but never alone and others in which she is alone but never lonely. Through these moments, she learns how much more there is to herself in the wake of total and unexpected upheaval. Loss. See Love. is a testament to how grief isn’t a linear process but is a spiraling awareness of the vast range of human emotion we experience every day.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published May 7, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
May 15, 2024
4.5⭐️
See: Loss. See Also: Love. by Yukiko Tominaga revolves around Kyoko, a young Japanese American immigrant in her late twenties, who loses her Jewish-American husband to a freak accident while she is visiting her family in Japan with her eighteen-month-old son, Alex.
The narrative is shared in four sections comprising a series of non-linear vignettes from the first person PoV of Kyoko as we follow her upbringing in Japan, her years as a student in the United States, her marriage to Levi and her settling in the United States to how she juggles her professional aspirations, her responsibilities as a single mother and her personal life in the years following Levi’s demise. Kyoko decides to remain in San Francisco with her son. Her parents in Japan are supportive of her decision and Levi’s family, especially his mother Bubbe, extend their support whenever needed. As we follow Kyoko over the years we see her reflect on her marriage and her loss – it is not just sorrow that she feels – her thoughts often turn dark, her grief often manifesting into anger as she embarks on a journey of catharsis and healing.
“But where are my tears when I think about my husband’s funeral? If I could, I would dig him up from his grave and stab his heart. I would stab his heart until it’s minced. I would break all his bones to make him like a puppet. I would crush him into a ball and kick him back into his coffin. I would throw rocks at him, tree branches, the shovel that I dug him up with, and all the gifts he gave me. Then I would ask him, ‘Why did you have to love me?’”
The author’s strength lies in her depiction of complex human emotions. What I found particularly striking about this novel was the honesty and insight with which the author has explored themes of grief and healing, infusing a healthy dose of humor into the narrative to keep it from becoming too bleak or overwhelming. Kyoko is critical of herself in all aspects of her life, more so as a single mother and even in her happier moments, she often experiences self-doubt. I loved how the author addresses cultural differences - it was both heartwarming and entertaining to follow how Kyoko approaches her relationships on both sides of the family as she strives to strike a balance between her Japanese roots and her life in the United States, especially in the context of Alex’s upbringing. At times she does come across as detached and unfeeling, a facet of her personality that is emphasized most when she reflects on her marriage and during her interactions with Bubbe, who sees her and accepts her as she is with warmth and affection. Kyoko, who is a tad reserved and not quite expressive when it comes to sharing her feelings or accepting help, finds it difficult to respond to Bubbe’s openness and effusive gestures. Bubbe is a loveable character and the author has done a remarkable job of depiction of how the dynamic between these two vastly different women evolves. Despite the non-linearity (which results in a slightly disjointed narrative), this is a well-rounded story. Beautifully written and thought-provoking, this is a novel I would definitely recommend to those who enjoy character-driven fiction that revolves around themes of grief, healing, family and motherhood.
Many thanks to Scribner for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on May 7, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
See: Loss. See Also: Love. by Yukiko Tominaga revolves around Kyoko, a young Japanese American immigrant in her late twenties, who loses her Jewish-American husband to a freak accident while she is visiting her family in Japan with her eighteen-month-old son, Alex.
The narrative is shared in four sections comprising a series of non-linear vignettes from the first person PoV of Kyoko as we follow her upbringing in Japan, her years as a student in the United States, her marriage to Levi and her settling in the United States to how she juggles her professional aspirations, her responsibilities as a single mother and her personal life in the years following Levi’s demise. Kyoko decides to remain in San Francisco with her son. Her parents in Japan are supportive of her decision and Levi’s family, especially his mother Bubbe, extend their support whenever needed. As we follow Kyoko over the years we see her reflect on her marriage and her loss – it is not just sorrow that she feels – her thoughts often turn dark, her grief often manifesting into anger as she embarks on a journey of catharsis and healing.
“But where are my tears when I think about my husband’s funeral? If I could, I would dig him up from his grave and stab his heart. I would stab his heart until it’s minced. I would break all his bones to make him like a puppet. I would crush him into a ball and kick him back into his coffin. I would throw rocks at him, tree branches, the shovel that I dug him up with, and all the gifts he gave me. Then I would ask him, ‘Why did you have to love me?’”
The author’s strength lies in her depiction of complex human emotions. What I found particularly striking about this novel was the honesty and insight with which the author has explored themes of grief and healing, infusing a healthy dose of humor into the narrative to keep it from becoming too bleak or overwhelming. Kyoko is critical of herself in all aspects of her life, more so as a single mother and even in her happier moments, she often experiences self-doubt. I loved how the author addresses cultural differences - it was both heartwarming and entertaining to follow how Kyoko approaches her relationships on both sides of the family as she strives to strike a balance between her Japanese roots and her life in the United States, especially in the context of Alex’s upbringing. At times she does come across as detached and unfeeling, a facet of her personality that is emphasized most when she reflects on her marriage and during her interactions with Bubbe, who sees her and accepts her as she is with warmth and affection. Kyoko, who is a tad reserved and not quite expressive when it comes to sharing her feelings or accepting help, finds it difficult to respond to Bubbe’s openness and effusive gestures. Bubbe is a loveable character and the author has done a remarkable job of depiction of how the dynamic between these two vastly different women evolves. Despite the non-linearity (which results in a slightly disjointed narrative), this is a well-rounded story. Beautifully written and thought-provoking, this is a novel I would definitely recommend to those who enjoy character-driven fiction that revolves around themes of grief, healing, family and motherhood.
Many thanks to Scribner for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on May 7, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
March 16, 2024
A beautiful debut novel a book that tore at my heart.A young widow her husband died in a freak accident leaving her to raise their son alone.She is Japanese he was Jewish and she learn to look to her family and Bubbie the child’s Jewish grandmother.This story carries us through many years following all the emotions sadness joy healing.This is a story that will stay with you a book I will be recommending.#netgalley #doubledaybooks
June 1, 2024
3.5
Thank you to the publishers for a giveaway copy!
I really enjoyed the complexity of human emotions and human relationships shown in this novel. The author is obviously talented and I would love to read more books from her!
Thank you to the publishers for a giveaway copy!
I really enjoyed the complexity of human emotions and human relationships shown in this novel. The author is obviously talented and I would love to read more books from her!
May 29, 2024
This was a beautifully written book. It's good for anyone who likes short stories, because that's how it reads more than a linear novel. I love how it showed that grief is ugly and raw and angry and never ending, through the structure of the story. It jumped a lot over many years, but they all seemed connected somehow, slowly revealing Kyoko has grown and changed, but grief and anger are still always there. I loved seeing her as a mother and the contrast with her own mother figures. I also loved loved her banter and relationship with her mother in law, who added a lot of humor to this book. It was tough, but not depressing, more like a slideshow of memories and the emotions tied to them.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was fabulous!
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was fabulous!
April 17, 2024
Thank you to Scribner Books for sending me an ARC of this book.
The premise for this series of connected vignettes is straightforward: a Japanese mother raises her son in America after her husband’s tragic death. But as the narrative skips back and forth through time, Tominaga demonstrates the haphazard paths of grief and love in our lives. Expect laughter, tears, and a vivid examination of human connection, with all its pain and poignancy.
The premise for this series of connected vignettes is straightforward: a Japanese mother raises her son in America after her husband’s tragic death. But as the narrative skips back and forth through time, Tominaga demonstrates the haphazard paths of grief and love in our lives. Expect laughter, tears, and a vivid examination of human connection, with all its pain and poignancy.
May 21, 2024
[3.5/5 stars]
In SEE:LOSS. SEE ALSO:LOVE, Kyoko decides to raise her son Alex in San Francisco rather than return to Japan, after her husband death.
Told in four sections of vignettes, one follows Kyoko's fluctuating emotions as she interacts with different members of family. The narrative Tominaga crafts for Kyoko highlights that grief is not linear, it takes different shapes and comes in waves at the most unexpected times. The story is about grief, grieving people who long for warmth, often trying to understand yet don't accept the law of nature.
Tominaga offers candid conversations and grief isn't sugar-coated - as Kyoko navigates grief as first-year mourner, family and love are redefined. Kindness and tenderness are embedded in a plot written with evocative prose, in which the author delivers a vulnerable examination of (second chance at) happiness, motherhood, culture and immigration. Meandering at times, the story rewards readers with the premonition of love, even if healing isn't the sole path.
Ultimately, SEE is a raw art of searching for soul from characters who share a bond by loss. Often contemplative, I found this tale about grief beautiful.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher - Scribner books . All opinions are my own ]
In SEE:LOSS. SEE ALSO:LOVE, Kyoko decides to raise her son Alex in San Francisco rather than return to Japan, after her husband death.
Told in four sections of vignettes, one follows Kyoko's fluctuating emotions as she interacts with different members of family. The narrative Tominaga crafts for Kyoko highlights that grief is not linear, it takes different shapes and comes in waves at the most unexpected times. The story is about grief, grieving people who long for warmth, often trying to understand yet don't accept the law of nature.
Tominaga offers candid conversations and grief isn't sugar-coated - as Kyoko navigates grief as first-year mourner, family and love are redefined. Kindness and tenderness are embedded in a plot written with evocative prose, in which the author delivers a vulnerable examination of (second chance at) happiness, motherhood, culture and immigration. Meandering at times, the story rewards readers with the premonition of love, even if healing isn't the sole path.
Ultimately, SEE is a raw art of searching for soul from characters who share a bond by loss. Often contemplative, I found this tale about grief beautiful.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher - Scribner books . All opinions are my own ]
May 5, 2024
Thank you Scribner Books for my #gifted copy of See: Loss. See Also: Love. #ScribnerInfluencer!
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐒𝐞𝐞: 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬. 𝐒𝐞𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐬𝐨: 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞.
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐘𝐮𝐤𝐢𝐤𝐨 𝐓𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐚
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒
Oh my heart! I absolutely loved this book about find oneself after experiencing a tragic loss. I found this book to be so incredibly moving and so impactful for me, personally, at this time in my life. Tominaga has such a beautiful way with words and I found such comfort and healing in this book. This was definitely an emotional read, but the author was able to also infuse humor throughout the book. I fell in love with the characters, and the role they played in Kyoko’s life, especially her Bubbe. I appreciated how the book was broken into four sections, and really felt like the format worked so well. I loved the message about grief not being a linear process and just found this book to be such a beautiful and moving novel! I cannot recommend this one enough!
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐒𝐞𝐞: 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬. 𝐒𝐞𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐬𝐨: 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞.
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐘𝐮𝐤𝐢𝐤𝐨 𝐓𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐚
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒
Oh my heart! I absolutely loved this book about find oneself after experiencing a tragic loss. I found this book to be so incredibly moving and so impactful for me, personally, at this time in my life. Tominaga has such a beautiful way with words and I found such comfort and healing in this book. This was definitely an emotional read, but the author was able to also infuse humor throughout the book. I fell in love with the characters, and the role they played in Kyoko’s life, especially her Bubbe. I appreciated how the book was broken into four sections, and really felt like the format worked so well. I loved the message about grief not being a linear process and just found this book to be such a beautiful and moving novel! I cannot recommend this one enough!
July 22, 2024
respectfully not my favorite. the writing was good and i really liked the idea but it just wasn’t for me. also while typing this review i received one of the heinous chain messages about biden dropping out and almost forwarded it to mema on accident so i wanted to share that update with everyone. 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻 tired of living in major historical events and unprecedented times. ttyl.
July 26, 2024
I do wonder why most Japanese authors write about grief exquisitely. It's an honest one for sure. Similar to how Banana Yoshimoto talking about grief in a heartwarming way, but Yukiko Tominaga was more in a silly way *in a good way ofc*.
May 16, 2024
I feel like the author put in this book a lot of topics, emotions, thinking, all in a package made of ironic parts, emotional, cynical and beautiful images of life and love. The difference in culture plays a big part too in the story of the protagonist, her family and that of her Jewish husband.Widow myself, I can see how realistic is Kioko's sorrow and preoccupation is, year after year. If I can tell, I don't think that Kioko loved her husband , little time in their marriage . I think that after her loss started for her the knowledge of self, who she was and what she wanted in life...also her choice in relationship and sex. The story was beautifully written, and I wanted to pause more to catch an idea, a truth. I think this is a splendid debut for Yukiko Tominaga .
May 26, 2024
Kyoko is a young Japanese American living in San Francisco with her husband and two year old son. When her husband unexpectedly dies, she has to decide whether to move to Massachusetts and live with her late husband’s family, or stay put and raise her son on her own. The book is a series of vignettes from Kyoko’s perspective that move around in time.
This small book packs a big punch emotionally. While it does begin with a heartbreaking loss, there is so much joy within these pages. Kyoko’s relationship with her Jewish mother-in-law, Bubbe, is so lovely. Bubbe accepts Kyoko for who she is with no judgement, lets her be herself and supports her unconditionally. It’s a beautiful thing. I can understand the delicate dance of raising a child within two different cultures and wanting him to appreciate and experience both fully. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.
Tominaga weaves together different cultures and highlights the many ways we grieve, experience loss, and heal. How she accomplished so much, in so few words is remarkable. This is an incredible debut! Do not miss this one!
This small book packs a big punch emotionally. While it does begin with a heartbreaking loss, there is so much joy within these pages. Kyoko’s relationship with her Jewish mother-in-law, Bubbe, is so lovely. Bubbe accepts Kyoko for who she is with no judgement, lets her be herself and supports her unconditionally. It’s a beautiful thing. I can understand the delicate dance of raising a child within two different cultures and wanting him to appreciate and experience both fully. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.
Tominaga weaves together different cultures and highlights the many ways we grieve, experience loss, and heal. How she accomplished so much, in so few words is remarkable. This is an incredible debut! Do not miss this one!
May 19, 2024
The author, Tominaga, is a good writer. The reader should be aware, however, that this is not a novel as described in notes about the book, at least not as I think of a novel. It is a collection of short stories, at least five of which have been previously published in a variety of publications. I write this because I think of a novel as a story from beginning to end, sometimes with flash backs and /or back history, but nevertheless, a story that starts and finishes. This was not that. It jumped all around without continuity or explanation.
The main characters are Kyoko, a Mother, and her son, Alex. Kyoko's husband / Alex's father has died, and this is mentioned in a number of the stories. His death is explained in at least one, possibly more.
Some of the stories take place in Japan and some in San Francisco and some elsewhere. I enjoyed reading the book, except for the difficulty I had with the 'stories' having little continuity, as would be expected in a novel. I liked Kyoto's Japan, and I liked her San Francisco. And I liked her characters, except for the difficulty with someone having died and then being in another story without explanation as to timing of his death or timing of the story's occurrence.
Once I figured out that there was a major disconnect. I discovered from the copywright at the beginning of the book that there was a compilation of short stories which have previously been published,. But I felt somewhat deceived.
Nevertheless, with the exception of the 'story' of Kyoko talking to her 15-year-old son, fantasizing about his having sex with his girlfriend and getting her pregnant. And the two children's families being one happy family and Kyoto being happy having another baby to take care of! I thought it bizarre. Her son was non-plussed.
On the other hand, I could relate to her experience with her not being allowed to work outside the home by her husband: his controlling the money and going with the wife to pay for what she wants or needs to buy. And not being allowed to have money herself. While not me, I know of women who are in these situations. They are not Japanese. They were raised right here in the good old U.S. of A. So it was good to read that how Kyoto felt about this was that it was NOT a good situation!
I won this Hardcover book in a Goodreads giveaway.
The main characters are Kyoko, a Mother, and her son, Alex. Kyoko's husband / Alex's father has died, and this is mentioned in a number of the stories. His death is explained in at least one, possibly more.
Some of the stories take place in Japan and some in San Francisco and some elsewhere. I enjoyed reading the book, except for the difficulty I had with the 'stories' having little continuity, as would be expected in a novel. I liked Kyoto's Japan, and I liked her San Francisco. And I liked her characters, except for the difficulty with someone having died and then being in another story without explanation as to timing of his death or timing of the story's occurrence.
Once I figured out that there was a major disconnect. I discovered from the copywright at the beginning of the book that there was a compilation of short stories which have previously been published,. But I felt somewhat deceived.
Nevertheless, with the exception of the 'story' of Kyoko talking to her 15-year-old son, fantasizing about his having sex with his girlfriend and getting her pregnant. And the two children's families being one happy family and Kyoto being happy having another baby to take care of! I thought it bizarre. Her son was non-plussed.
On the other hand, I could relate to her experience with her not being allowed to work outside the home by her husband: his controlling the money and going with the wife to pay for what she wants or needs to buy. And not being allowed to have money herself. While not me, I know of women who are in these situations. They are not Japanese. They were raised right here in the good old U.S. of A. So it was good to read that how Kyoto felt about this was that it was NOT a good situation!
I won this Hardcover book in a Goodreads giveaway.
April 29, 2024
gifted by the publisher
After her husband's untimely death, Kyoko decides to raise her son in SF, away from her parents in Japan and Jewish in-laws in Boston. Through vignettes, Kyoko's fluctuating emotions demonstrate the range of grief and loss, and ultimately, how one moves on when all seems lost.
SEE is an all-vibes no-plot story that reminds me of CHEMISTRY (Weike Wang) and GOODBYE, VITAMIN (Rachel Khong) stylistically. I love the various characters who show her kindness along the way, especially her quirky mother-in-law. Through contemplating prose, Tominaga beautifully demonstrates that raising a child takes a village, and heal a wound takes a community.
Due to the meandering narrative, I couldn't get a good sense of who Kyoko is. Is her coldness toward her dead husband due to grief? Rage? The writing held me at arm's length at times, and I wish there was a more central theme to tie the story together. I recommend SEE to those looking for vignettes about grief with a quirky narrative.
After her husband's untimely death, Kyoko decides to raise her son in SF, away from her parents in Japan and Jewish in-laws in Boston. Through vignettes, Kyoko's fluctuating emotions demonstrate the range of grief and loss, and ultimately, how one moves on when all seems lost.
SEE is an all-vibes no-plot story that reminds me of CHEMISTRY (Weike Wang) and GOODBYE, VITAMIN (Rachel Khong) stylistically. I love the various characters who show her kindness along the way, especially her quirky mother-in-law. Through contemplating prose, Tominaga beautifully demonstrates that raising a child takes a village, and heal a wound takes a community.
Due to the meandering narrative, I couldn't get a good sense of who Kyoko is. Is her coldness toward her dead husband due to grief? Rage? The writing held me at arm's length at times, and I wish there was a more central theme to tie the story together. I recommend SEE to those looking for vignettes about grief with a quirky narrative.
July 24, 2024
The novel tells the story of Kyoko, a Japanese woman who moves to America to pursue her college degree but becomes unexpectedly pregnant. She marries Levi, who tragically dies in an accident while she is in Japan with their baby. Kyoko then starts raising her son in San Francisco with the help of her Jewish mother-in-law, Bubbe. The story follows Kyoko and her son from when he is 18 months old to 15 years old, depicting her growth as a mother and a woman.
I loved this passage: "Alex is the son, the husband is Levi, and you've just found out that Levi has, has had this horrific accident where he's been fixing a car, you think, and the car has crushed his chest and blah, blah, blah. Anyway, the gray hauled hallway continued as far as I could see. Then a cold metal door appeared in front of me, room four. I opened the door and in the corner of the room, I saw a body covered with a white sheet. Except for the bruise on his left eyelid, he looked in good condition. He might have been sleeping, I thought. With my ring finger, I touched his cheek. He was cold. It was not the coldness that sinks into your bones, and not the coldness that children bring after coming back in from a snowball fight. It was a coldness I could never warm. I haven't found the words to describe this sensation, yet when I think about that moment, my now empty finger feels the chill."
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbymedia.com/blogs/transcri...
I loved this passage: "Alex is the son, the husband is Levi, and you've just found out that Levi has, has had this horrific accident where he's been fixing a car, you think, and the car has crushed his chest and blah, blah, blah. Anyway, the gray hauled hallway continued as far as I could see. Then a cold metal door appeared in front of me, room four. I opened the door and in the corner of the room, I saw a body covered with a white sheet. Except for the bruise on his left eyelid, he looked in good condition. He might have been sleeping, I thought. With my ring finger, I touched his cheek. He was cold. It was not the coldness that sinks into your bones, and not the coldness that children bring after coming back in from a snowball fight. It was a coldness I could never warm. I haven't found the words to describe this sensation, yet when I think about that moment, my now empty finger feels the chill."
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbymedia.com/blogs/transcri...
May 13, 2024
“And when my definition of family expanded, my capacity for love expanded as well. And when the capacity for love expands, so does life itself” (149).
Happy Pub Day to this incredible little novel that packs a big punch! Thank you @simonandschuster and @scribnerbooks for my gifted copy and for introducing me to the nuanced voice of Tominaga.
The structure of this novel is so unique and really adds to its charm. It is written as a series of vignettes from the perspective of Kyoko, a young Japanese American woman whose husband dies unexpectedly in an accident, leaving her to raise their two year old son alone.
Rather than move back to Japan with her family or move to Massachusetts with her late husband’s family, she decides to stay in San Francisco and raise Alex on her own. What follows is a series of thoughts and experiences that Kyoko has as Alex grows up and as she collects her own found family along the way.
I especially loved Kyoko’s relationship with her Jewish mother-in-law, Bubbe, who loves her unconditionally and allows her to be herself and speak her mind without judgement. Although the premise begins with a devastating loss, it is also a joyful exploration of self discovery and independence as well as a testament to the importance of accepting love in whatever form it presents itself to you.
I really loved this novel and the characters within it and I cannot wait to read more from Tominaga!
July 12, 2024
While visiting her parents in Japan with her 18-month-old son, Kyoko's husband dies in a tragic accident in San Francisco. She now has to figure out if she should stay in America or move back to Japan, and how she will support herself and her son. I loved her Jewish mother-in-law, Bubbie, and the way Tominaga depcited their relationship with honesty and humor (and without making Bubbie a stereotypical charicature). But the way the audiobook narrator completely misprounounced "Zaida" (she wasn't even close!) grated on my nerves. This book was recommended by several of my colleagues at the recent Association of Jewish Libraries Conference but it didn't really work for me. The episodic first person narrative read more like a memoir and was not chronological. There was no storyline or plot and with the exception of Bubbie, none of the other secondary characters were well-developed. While I had sympathy for her, Kyoko was not a likeable protagonist and I had a hard time relating to her. The Jewish content is not particularly significant so I likely won't purchase a copy for my synagogue library collection.
July 24, 2024
Book 13 for the year. A very warm feel good tale of Japanese immigrant woman in US, who marries into a Jewish family, has a small son and loses her husband in a freak accident. How she copes up with the loss, manages the mountain of debt her husband leaves behind, overcomes self pity and leads the rest of her life with her son forms the rest of the story. The story is told in a beautiful non linear format and the protagonist draws strength from her experiences both past and present to tide over the difficulties. The book has a lot of Japanese concepts like accepting the imperfections, leading a contented life within your means, deriving strength from the most mundane things etc. The book really tugs at your heart strings without making the protagonist look like an object of sympathy. Loved the writing style and the narrative, along with the Jewish and Japanese cultural references. Must read if you are feeling a bit low in life!
June 13, 2024
This one was so interesting (in a good way!)
The writing was almost philosophical. It really showcased the complexity of different life stages, relationships, cultures, and how our identities are ever shifting. And how grief can ebb and flow over time, often wearing the mask of another emotion.
This was such a great depiction of love, grief, loneliness, motherhood... life. I enjoyed it.
It read more like interconnected stories than a novel. Personally, I preferred the physical copy over the audio version for this reason. The narrative is segmented and non-linear, so it made more sense to me visually on the page.
*The audio narration was well done, this is just my personal preference for this writing style.
Thank you Scribner for my advance copy, and Simon Audio/LibroFM for the ALC!
The writing was almost philosophical. It really showcased the complexity of different life stages, relationships, cultures, and how our identities are ever shifting. And how grief can ebb and flow over time, often wearing the mask of another emotion.
This was such a great depiction of love, grief, loneliness, motherhood... life. I enjoyed it.
It read more like interconnected stories than a novel. Personally, I preferred the physical copy over the audio version for this reason. The narrative is segmented and non-linear, so it made more sense to me visually on the page.
*The audio narration was well done, this is just my personal preference for this writing style.
Thank you Scribner for my advance copy, and Simon Audio/LibroFM for the ALC!
March 4, 2024
***Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review***
In this story, a Japanese woman named Kyoko experiences the loss of her Jewish husband in a freak accident that leaves her alone and responsible for their son, Alex. This is the story of her grief, the people who sit in it with her, and how relationships stretch and change. Primary amongst the cast of characters is Bubbe, her mother-in-law, who is sometimes a caricature of a Jewish grandmother, but also gets fleshed out into her own person. The novel spans a long period of time, and yet it has a languid tone that is, perhaps, a reflection of what grief can feel like over time. There's never a finish line for grief; whether you like it or not, you're in it for the long game.
In this story, a Japanese woman named Kyoko experiences the loss of her Jewish husband in a freak accident that leaves her alone and responsible for their son, Alex. This is the story of her grief, the people who sit in it with her, and how relationships stretch and change. Primary amongst the cast of characters is Bubbe, her mother-in-law, who is sometimes a caricature of a Jewish grandmother, but also gets fleshed out into her own person. The novel spans a long period of time, and yet it has a languid tone that is, perhaps, a reflection of what grief can feel like over time. There's never a finish line for grief; whether you like it or not, you're in it for the long game.
May 8, 2024
Yukiko Tominaga beautifully tells the story of Kyoko, a single mother from Japan, navigating loneliness as she contemplates the meaning of love and its profound influence on her world. Married to Levi, a Jewish-American, Kyoko raises their son, Alex, until tragedy strikes and she is left alone even as she is surrounded by many people who help her to raise her son. Through her bonds with Alex, Levi's family (led by the precocious and funny Bubbe), and her own family (with a struggling brother and loving parents and grandparents) with their own stories on love, Kyoko's journey explores themes of grief and love, highlighting the power of relationships in defining her identity. It’s a well told story full of humor, sarcasm, surprises and that keep the pages turning.
February 28, 2024
In this affecting debut, Kyoko has lost her husband in a sudden unexpected accident. Four vignettes vividly paint a portrait of the stages she journeys through in her grief. It is by no means a linear pathway because grief is not linear.
Kyoko's emotions run the full gamut, often dark, rarely light, and occasionally humorous. She has as many emotions as she does family and lived places. She finds solace in her warm and exuberant Jewish in-laws on her husband's side in Boston, her immediate sedate Japanese family in Tokyo, her vibrant San Francisco community, and her wise, stalwart son Alex. Tominaga weaves Kyoko’s parenting challenges into the story as well, with her deep concern of whether she is raising her son correctly.
Through it all, Kyoko is constantly examining love; what it is, what it means and is it at all possible. Ultimately, in opening herself up to the pain of her loss she opens to the delight of all those around her.
A penetrating look at the complexities of grief, love and joy.
Kyoko's emotions run the full gamut, often dark, rarely light, and occasionally humorous. She has as many emotions as she does family and lived places. She finds solace in her warm and exuberant Jewish in-laws on her husband's side in Boston, her immediate sedate Japanese family in Tokyo, her vibrant San Francisco community, and her wise, stalwart son Alex. Tominaga weaves Kyoko’s parenting challenges into the story as well, with her deep concern of whether she is raising her son correctly.
Through it all, Kyoko is constantly examining love; what it is, what it means and is it at all possible. Ultimately, in opening herself up to the pain of her loss she opens to the delight of all those around her.
A penetrating look at the complexities of grief, love and joy.
May 7, 2024
This debut novel is a raw and honest look into grief and loss and how it penetrates even the smallest, most mundane details of your life. Kyoko, a Japanese-American immigrant loses her husband early in their life and she is left to learn how to navigate the everyday things you would usually share with your partner, including raising their son. The story is told through several different scenes, like small snapshots into Kyoko's life throughout the years as we watch her try to find joy again. This was a really touching read.
Thanks to Scribner for the gifted book.
Thanks to Scribner for the gifted book.
June 11, 2024
This isn't the usual type of book that most people would expect to read, but it is very important to loose your expectations when it comes to this story. If you do, you'll discover a beautiful, authentic story about a woman finding herself and making her way through life as it is. I enjoyed this story because of its sense of realness, honesty and simplicity - all in the best possible way.
If you're doubting on whether to buy the book or not... Keep an open mind and give it a shot, you won't be disappointed :)
If you're doubting on whether to buy the book or not... Keep an open mind and give it a shot, you won't be disappointed :)
July 13, 2024
Japanese literature never fails to deliver profound, emotional narratives that touch the heart, and this book is no exception. I absolutely loved the storyline, which masterfully weaves a tale of loss and rediscovery.
With its great emotional resonance and cultural diversity, the author's work is moving and evocative, capturing the core of Japanese literature that appeals to her. This novel reminds us of the power of love and the fortitude of the human spirit since it is a lovely and touching story. Strongly advised for everyone searching for a moving and inspiring book.
With its great emotional resonance and cultural diversity, the author's work is moving and evocative, capturing the core of Japanese literature that appeals to her. This novel reminds us of the power of love and the fortitude of the human spirit since it is a lovely and touching story. Strongly advised for everyone searching for a moving and inspiring book.
April 29, 2024
This is a quirky and unexpected story on love and loss with some stereotypical and wild characters. You kind of have to play the believing game as you read it. I had a little trouble getting into it and staying with it, but it speaks to loss very eloquently so readers who have themselves suffered a loss may find it very moving and soothing to read. Added joy for the combination of Jewish and Japanese characters (and more!)
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. It's unique!
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. It's unique!
May 30, 2024
A freak accident suddenly leaves Kyoko, a Japanese woman, a single mom, alone in San Franciso. She must find a way to navigate her grief and support herself. Although this sounds like a tearjerker, it becomes full of warmth and even humor as Kyoko develops a deeper relationship with her Jewish mother-in-law.
It’s a very honest and authentic look at loss and love.
Thank you @Scribnerbooks for this gifted copy. Thank you @simon.audio and @librofm for the gifted audiobook.
June 13, 2024
See: Saw. See Also: See.
This is an interesting read.
I am glad I got it.
Deep within the pages are some really heavy and meaningful realizations and insights. At least to me!
A unique read and a unique perspective (at least to me) when it comes to Japanese literature.
Also a debut novel for the author, so I am very glad to have been able to check this one out!
Looking forward to more future books by Tominaga.
3.6/5
This is an interesting read.
I am glad I got it.
Deep within the pages are some really heavy and meaningful realizations and insights. At least to me!
A unique read and a unique perspective (at least to me) when it comes to Japanese literature.
Also a debut novel for the author, so I am very glad to have been able to check this one out!
Looking forward to more future books by Tominaga.
3.6/5
May 6, 2024
This was a lovely debut novel. It’s told in vignettes. It looks at the life of a woman after the death of her husband as she works to raise her son alone.
I enjoyed following the story. Seeing Kyoko navigate life, interacting with her mother-in-law, and her own family.
Thx Simon Audio for the advanced audiobook and Scribner Books for the early copy.
I enjoyed following the story. Seeing Kyoko navigate life, interacting with her mother-in-law, and her own family.
Thx Simon Audio for the advanced audiobook and Scribner Books for the early copy.
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