The Times of Botchan

    (Fanfare, 2005-2006)
™ and © 1987 Jiro Taniguchi
cardstock cover; reads right to left; b&w

Students of Japanese culture and history should find much to admire about this exploration of the country’s Meiji period. Creators Jiro Taniguchi and Natsuo Sekikawa have created a deliberately paced work that captures a sense of what life must have been like in the years between the Edo period and World War II.

During this time, Japanese society found itself grappling with identity issues as Western influences rapidly transformed the nation. The book follows writer Soseki Natsume, an actual historical figure, as he puts together his new book, “Botchan.” As he interacts with other key figures of the time, he reflects on the conflicting feelings that many of his peers must have felt as they tried to hold onto their heritage while facing inexorable changes.

— Colin Chan
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Cover Price: $19.99
1 copy available for $16.00 		Natsuo SekikawaJirô Taniguchi
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1 copy available for $7.50 		Natsuo SekikawaJirô Taniguchi