MY BOOKS

I've written six and a half (?) books of my own, all of them related to Japan in some way. Why do I write books? Hmm. That's a good question. I think it's because I like to fill the vacant corners of my otherwise neurotic brain with new and interesting ideas instead of cobwebbed memories and worries. Why do I write about Japan? I have made my living as a Japanese interpreter and translator for many years now, and in the context of my work I am constantly learning new things and being introduced to new perspectives and new ways of thinking. Often, in learning about Japan I learn just as much about my own country, the United States.

For me, each book project is a personal exploration into some sort of uncharted territory or subject that fascinates me. The physical book that results is the record of the exploration-- the map and the diary. I hope those who read my books can enjoy the exploration as much as I did.

The books I have written are listed below, in order of publication. Some are hard to find (almost "cult" items by now). For the third book, although my name is on the cover as co-author, I really should be credited as "contributing author." It does have a long section in Japanese by me, but the part I'm most proud of is my cartoons, many of which are reproduced along with most of my nengajo new year's zodiac cards, so I'm taking the liberty of including it here. Don't forget to click on the other titles for more information-- such as tables of contents, blurbs, and ordering methods. For my full bibliography, click HERE.