I enjoyed this book. A year in the life of a Japanese woman. The author does explore tangents to give us more background. This really helps to explain some of Mariko's story. The main focus seems to be on marriage. Other topics are covered, but it all keeps coming back to the relationship between husband and wife. Very different from America. Interesting how stereotypes viewed from a little different angle bring a new understanding. I found it very interesting. There is a good bibliography. ( )

One of the best non-fiction works I've read. Tells the true story of an ordinary Japanese housewife very poignantly and uses it to shed light on Japanese society without too many generalizations. I recommend it highly. ( )