Review: Engaging and thoughtful
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 28, 2013
Hiro is the young janitor at a Buddhist temple in Japan. He wants to visit the US and England - and wouldn't mind a girlfriend too.The story is told in Hiro's version of English - very little grammar, not much punctuation and a rather literal approach to spelling.However, although the language is basic, the story isn't and is written in such an engaging way that it's very easy to lose yourself in Hiro's world.From looking after a koi carp that had its tail eaten by a heron to an uncle who blames Hiro for the death of his dog, it's the small details that make this story so real.There's also bigger drama - a dubious girlfriend, loan sharks and the temple's uncertain future. And it all comes together in a very satisfying fashion. Heartily recommended.