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Orienting

An Indian in Japan

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Orienting

Written by: Pallavi Aiyar
Narrated by: Pallavi Aiyar
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How is Tokyo, a city of thirty million people, so safe that six-year-old children commute to school on their own? Why are there no trashcans in Japanese cities? Why are Ganesha idols in Japanese temples hidden from public view? Globe-trotting journalist Pallavi Aiyar moves to Japan and takes an in-depth look at the island country including its culinary, sanitary and floral idiosyncrasies. Steering through the many (mis)adventures that come from learning a new language, imbibing new cultural etiquette, and asking difficult questions about race, Aiyar explores why Japan and India find it hard to work together despite sharing a long civilizational history. Part travelogue, part reportage, Orienting answers questions that have long confounded the rest of the world with Aiyar's trademark humour. Tackling both the significant and the trivial, the quirky and the quotidian, here is an Indian's account of Japan that is as thought-provoking as it is charming.

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I am keen to read about the culture of geographies / time in which the narrative of the book is based in - a reason why I really liked books like Maximum City, Pachinko and Shantaram. This book captures the essence of an outsider in Japan who is trying to blend in and understand their way of life. I liked the style of narrative as the flow is quite easy going to keep you hooked. It touches upon multiple different facets of life in Japan ranging from politics to cleanliness to infra - makes it quite a holistic account of the modern day Japan. Worth a read - audible experience was good.

A decent glimpse of Japan

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Precisely narrated the story of life in japan by the author. Many aspect of modern Japan can be understood from this story. While there are many good memories, you can feel out of place in a foreign land. That is exactly what the author pointed out.

Know the JAPAN with INDIAN eye

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An amazing insightful book, balancing the positive, negative and in-between of the authors experience and perspective on Japan. must read if you are interested in Japan!

Amazing, Insightful

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Written with a journalists sharp eye combined with the sympathy of a residents view through the window. Particularly appealing for Indians who want to learn about everyday life in Japan.

A balanced semi inside view of Japan

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Am a great fan of Pico Iyer. it's through him that I discovered great many things about Japan their culture, language etc. After very long , I came across this book thats interesting in that, it doesn't stick to only culture , it addresses current affairs , economy, bilateral relations etc. Really enjoyed the book. the only crib I have with the book is the narration. Sometimes it's choppy in tempo and pauses are awkward .

Insightful and Engaging

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