Rating: 
Summary: Essential reading for all "gaijin"
Review: This is an excellent book. It should be required reading for anyone interested in living in Japan and for all foreigners currently living there. Ms. Davidson portrays the Japanese people with insight and "dead-on" accuracy. You'll come away with a better understanding of Japan and Japanese culture. It was both humorous and though provoking. This is the best book I've ever read about what it's like to be a "gaijin" in Japan. I highly recommend this book.
Rating:
Summary: Highly recommended for the serious visitor to Japan.
Review: This was one of those rare books where the author carefully draws you into her life, and you get to experience the full gamut of emotions that prompted the author to want to share her story. As she relates her story, you can feel her attachment for Japan and its people grow and suffuse itself into her soul until she will never again be just an American.It gives more essential insight about the Japanese culture than many of the "What to Expect in Japan" type brochures offered by travel agencies. Instead of itemizing details on how a tourist should act in each situation, it allows the reader a glimpse into the way the deeply engrained rules of Japanese culture governs their interactions with other people. It shows how the personal emotions and feelings that are so openly displayed in the western cultures are just as real and personal in Japan, but are only shared with those few outsiders who cultivate a deep and personal trust with the Japanese. It moves! the experience of Japan beyond that of beautiful temples and lush scenery, to that of understanding and loving the Japanese people and their country. It is recommended reading for the casual tourist, but it is much more than that for those who want to really experience Japan.
Rating: 
Summary: very interesting book
Review: While I would prefer to read a book about how a Japanese person felt about American, or Ganjin visitors, I do think this provides an interesting look at Japanese culture, however filtered it may be. Very thought provoking...I love watching the author grow throught the novel. I definitely recommend it.
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