amyvl93's review
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
This seems to be a very well-loved novella, but it didn't really work for me. <i>Kitchen</i> follows our narrator who after the loss of her Grandmother who has raised her, is taken in by a friend and his parent to help her get through her grief.
Grief is well explored within this novel - and we experience two different deaths within the book both of which impact on our protagonist. There's also plenty of meditation in here around the power of cooking and of food in creating moments of togetherness, openness and healing.
However, there's also some things in this that made me go...huh. I am not sure if this is due to Yoshimoto's original prose or the translation, but our protagonists voice felt unbearable twee and over the top - with lots of gasping, explanations and exclamation points when the situation really didn't require it. There is also a 'romance' of sorts introduced into the novel which I found to be both unnecessary and too insta-love for my taste.
It is also worth nothing that this novel's depiction of trans people is quite behind the times - the novella was originally written in the late 1980s, and the way the character is written about and discussed by characters in very of that time.
Grief is well explored within this novel - and we experience two different deaths within the book both of which impact on our protagonist. There's also plenty of meditation in here around the power of cooking and of food in creating moments of togetherness, openness and healing.
However, there's also some things in this that made me go...huh. I am not sure if this is due to Yoshimoto's original prose or the translation, but our protagonists voice felt unbearable twee and over the top - with lots of gasping, explanations and exclamation points when the situation really didn't require it. There is also a 'romance' of sorts introduced into the novel which I found to be both unnecessary and too insta-love for my taste.
It is also worth nothing that this novel's depiction of trans people is quite behind the times - the novella was originally written in the late 1980s, and the way the character is written about and discussed by characters in very of that time.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Transphobia, and Grief
syinhui's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
Cold and gloomy. Whimsical and serene. Charming and quirky characters.
The quiet melancholy and gentle but sorrowful atmosphere of these two novellas seem to be a perfect read for cold nights or rainy afternoons. While the themes of death and loss are central in Kitchen and Moonlight Shadow, it’s also about the process of healing and finding comfort in the most mundane things. The kitchen becomes a place of solace. Good food is like a soothing balm for a tired and wounded spirit.
The quiet melancholy and gentle but sorrowful atmosphere of these two novellas seem to be a perfect read for cold nights or rainy afternoons. While the themes of death and loss are central in Kitchen and Moonlight Shadow, it’s also about the process of healing and finding comfort in the most mundane things. The kitchen becomes a place of solace. Good food is like a soothing balm for a tired and wounded spirit.
As someone who also has an affinity for kitchens and loves cooking, I found myself inevitably drawn to the titular story, Kitchen. I’ve always had a certain fondness for books that offer exquisite descriptions and appreciation of food and eating. While the prose is rather simplistic and I think the approach to character dynamics and relationships is sometimes a bit too shoujo-esque or slice-of-life for my tastes, some lines relating to food and the transformative power of shared meals - turning ordinary into something extraordinary and deeply touching really resonated with me.
Truly happy memories always live on, shining. Over time, one by one, they come back to life. The meals we ate together, numberless afternoons and evenings.
When was it that Yuichi said to me, "Why is it that everything I eat when I'm with you is so delicious?"
"It's amazing how good this is," I said. The tempura on rice we were eating, seated at the counter in this new little shop smelling of fresh wood, was so good it revived my appetite.
"Isn't it?" said Hiiragi.
"Yes. It's delicious. So delicious it makes me grateful I'm alive."
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Grief
Moderate: Death of parent, Suicidal thoughts, and Transphobia
Minor: Alcoholism, Cancer, and Terminal illness
iw4kur4l4in's review
emotional
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Gave me a newfound hope for life.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Grief, Murder, and Death
Minor: Cancer, Alcohol, Hate crime, and Terminal illness
ramalam98's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
4.25
I preferred the second story to the first, but they were both really good.
Moonlight Shadow was definitely a 5⭐️ story for me, a surprisingly heartwarming story of grief and nearly made me shed a tear.
Kitchen was more of a 4⭐️ read, I felt like it dragged on a little bit and some sections definitely haven’t aged well. I liked the characters and the story but wanted more focus on the kitchen lol
I wasn’t actually too keen on the writing style which I think is a translation issue, the translator used a lot of english sayings which felt out of place.
Moonlight Shadow was definitely a 5⭐️ story for me, a surprisingly heartwarming story of grief and nearly made me shed a tear.
Kitchen was more of a 4⭐️ read, I felt like it dragged on a little bit and some sections definitely haven’t aged well. I liked the characters and the story but wanted more focus on the kitchen lol
I wasn’t actually too keen on the writing style which I think is a translation issue, the translator used a lot of english sayings which felt out of place.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia, Hate crime, and Grief
clavishorti's review against another edition
dark
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Within the pages of Kitchen, a literary treasure awaits, crafted by the gifted pen of Banana Yoshimoto. In this collection, Yoshimoto masterfully intertwines a spectrum of emotions: sorrow, love, and the enduring strength of human connections converge. Here, the written word becomes a vessel, transporting readers into the very heart of the human experience, promising not just to captivate the mind but also to warm the soul.
In the titular story, "Kitchen," Mikage Sakurai grapples with grief after her grandmother's passing. Her affinity for kitchens as havens of comfort symbolizes her quest for solace in a world marked by uncertainty. As Mikage navigates her emotional journey, a lingering question emerges: can she confront the profound sadness of loss and find a way to heal? Yet, amidst her quest for healing, unexpected sorrows also find their way into her life.
In the second novella, "Moonlight Shadow," Satsuki confronts the loss of her boyfriend. How does her journey into a realm where the living and departed intersect alter her understanding of love, memory, and the ephemeral nature of existence? As Satsuki grapples with the boundaries between life and death, the story beckons readers to contemplate the delicate balance between remembrance and moving forward.
The novellas convey messages resonating on a profound level, offering insights into various facets of life. The concept of self-transformation through change prevails as characters evolve amidst loss and challenges, highlighting the potential for personal growth in the face of adversity. As the kitchen emerges as a sanctuary of comfort and stability, its role underscores the significance of everyday routines and places that offer solace amid life's turbulence. These themes seamlessly intertwine with the portrayal of relationships, whether they are friendships or love connections, which emerge as powerful sources of support, healing, and interconnectedness. This exemplifies the allure of human bonds and underscores the significance of emotional connections in our lives. Furthermore, Yoshimoto delves into the delicate balance between death and life, teaching acceptance of loss and the importance of preserving memories as a way to honor those who have passed. The narratives also reflect characters' pursuit of tranquility amidst chaos, encouraging readers to reflect on their own journeys to find meaning and equilibrium amid life's uncertainties. Through these resonant themes, Kitchen becomes a poignant exploration of the intricate emotions that shape our lives, inviting readers to contemplate their own experiences and emotions profoundly.
Yoshimoto's writing style, characterized by introspection and lyricism, captures the depth of characters' emotions. The stories explore vulnerability and resilience in the face of change. Themes of love and loss are explored through unique narratives, making Kitchen a timeless reflection on the human experience.
The impact of translation and writing style on the narrative plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's experience of Kitchen. Translated adeptly by Megan Backus, the English version retains the flow and essence of the original Japanese text, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the story seamlessly. Backus preserves the lyrical quality of Yoshimoto's writing, ensuring that the emotional depth and introspective nature of the characters are conveyed effectively. The translation contributes to the accessibility and understanding of the book, making it possible for readers to engage with the complex emotions and themes explored by Yoshimoto. Overall, the translation enhances the book's power to resonate with readers, providing a faithful representation of the author's intent.
The strengths of Kitchen lie in its ability to evoke profound emotions despite its dark themes, and Yoshimoto's introspective prose enhances character exploration and emotional depth. Themes of grief, love, and human connection resonate on a universal level. However, the book's dark content might not appeal to all readers.
Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto transcends its dark themes to convey a message of resilience, connection, and the search for meaning. Through poignant storytelling, Yoshimoto captures the intricate tapestry of human emotions, leaving readers with a deep understanding of life's complexity. Whether readers seek solace, introspection, or an appreciation for human relationships, Kitchen remains a profound work that navigates the depths of the heart and soul.
In the titular story, "Kitchen," Mikage Sakurai grapples with grief after her grandmother's passing. Her affinity for kitchens as havens of comfort symbolizes her quest for solace in a world marked by uncertainty. As Mikage navigates her emotional journey, a lingering question emerges: can she confront the profound sadness of loss and find a way to heal? Yet, amidst her quest for healing, unexpected sorrows also find their way into her life.
In the second novella, "Moonlight Shadow," Satsuki confronts the loss of her boyfriend. How does her journey into a realm where the living and departed intersect alter her understanding of love, memory, and the ephemeral nature of existence? As Satsuki grapples with the boundaries between life and death, the story beckons readers to contemplate the delicate balance between remembrance and moving forward.
The novellas convey messages resonating on a profound level, offering insights into various facets of life. The concept of self-transformation through change prevails as characters evolve amidst loss and challenges, highlighting the potential for personal growth in the face of adversity. As the kitchen emerges as a sanctuary of comfort and stability, its role underscores the significance of everyday routines and places that offer solace amid life's turbulence. These themes seamlessly intertwine with the portrayal of relationships, whether they are friendships or love connections, which emerge as powerful sources of support, healing, and interconnectedness. This exemplifies the allure of human bonds and underscores the significance of emotional connections in our lives. Furthermore, Yoshimoto delves into the delicate balance between death and life, teaching acceptance of loss and the importance of preserving memories as a way to honor those who have passed. The narratives also reflect characters' pursuit of tranquility amidst chaos, encouraging readers to reflect on their own journeys to find meaning and equilibrium amid life's uncertainties. Through these resonant themes, Kitchen becomes a poignant exploration of the intricate emotions that shape our lives, inviting readers to contemplate their own experiences and emotions profoundly.
Yoshimoto's writing style, characterized by introspection and lyricism, captures the depth of characters' emotions. The stories explore vulnerability and resilience in the face of change. Themes of love and loss are explored through unique narratives, making Kitchen a timeless reflection on the human experience.
The impact of translation and writing style on the narrative plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's experience of Kitchen. Translated adeptly by Megan Backus, the English version retains the flow and essence of the original Japanese text, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the story seamlessly. Backus preserves the lyrical quality of Yoshimoto's writing, ensuring that the emotional depth and introspective nature of the characters are conveyed effectively. The translation contributes to the accessibility and understanding of the book, making it possible for readers to engage with the complex emotions and themes explored by Yoshimoto. Overall, the translation enhances the book's power to resonate with readers, providing a faithful representation of the author's intent.
The strengths of Kitchen lie in its ability to evoke profound emotions despite its dark themes, and Yoshimoto's introspective prose enhances character exploration and emotional depth. Themes of grief, love, and human connection resonate on a universal level. However, the book's dark content might not appeal to all readers.
Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto transcends its dark themes to convey a message of resilience, connection, and the search for meaning. Through poignant storytelling, Yoshimoto captures the intricate tapestry of human emotions, leaving readers with a deep understanding of life's complexity. Whether readers seek solace, introspection, or an appreciation for human relationships, Kitchen remains a profound work that navigates the depths of the heart and soul.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder, Death, Death of parent, Grief, and Transphobia
astareads's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was an interesting read, the flow and style were something that I've come to equate with Japanese literature, it was dreamlike and bordering on magical realism. The stories were touching, although the fact that two were focused on the same main character and the third on someone else was confusing and made it a bit hard to get into the third story, although I turned out to like that one the best. The ending left me feeling hopeful.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Murder, Transphobia, and Grief
claudiashelf's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Oh, my. The more I dive into this book, the more I realise that this book feels like a warm hug. At first, I felt the depression and grieving with the main character, feeling like the world will never be by my side because how in the world, everyone that blood-related to me passed away— cried. But then, this book is so sweet. The type of sweetness that you need to perceive when the world is stepped on you. I liked the way the Author discusses grief and loneliness as well as how certain aspects of daily life can keep us tethered to loved ones; this book explains everything really well. Every line felt so sentimental to the point that I wanted to keep them on my wall. It just— the author successfully describes grief and loss in a very beautiful way. But— this book parted with two parts; sadly, I think the closure on the second part is pretty much not satisfying enough to relate it to the first part. That was fine tho; wasn’t my favourite but OK.
I craved Katsudon as I finished this book!!
I craved Katsudon as I finished this book!!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent and Grief
readingbrb's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
3.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia
Moderate: Death of parent and Grief
lenaww's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief
Minor: Suicidal thoughts and Transphobia
leweylibrary's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I enjoyed this so much more than I thought I was going to, and I'm so glad it was one I read on the way to Japan! The writing was so profound, and I just adored the characters, even if they were kind of hot messes lol. Both stories talked a lot about family and personal growth and change, and I basically highlighted the entire book with quotes I liked lol. Also, I know the way the trans character is written if a bit controversial, especially now, but for when this book was written it's absolutely wild that this character was even written in the first place, and she's still one of my favorites.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Hate crime, Sexism, Murder, Misogyny, Mental illness, Transphobia, Grief, Death of parent, and Death