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"Evil and the Mask" delves into a dark and twisted tale of a family tradition where one child is raised to embody evil in the world. The protagonist, Kuki, struggles to escape the fate set by his father, leading to a narrative filled with psychological tension, intricate character development, and unexpected plot twists. The writing style is described as clear and engaging, with a mix of monologues and philosophical dialogues that explore the depths of evil and human suffering.

If you liked Evil and the Mask, here are the top 6 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 6 of 6 
  1. #1

    The Thief by Fuminori Nakamura
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    The Thief by Fuminori Nakamura is a Japanese noir fiction novel that delves into the life of a skilled pickpocket named Nishimura in Tokyo. The plot follows Nishimura as he gets entangled in a web of crime orchestrated by a gangland mobster, leading him into a dark underworld of murder and theft. The book explores themes of determinism, fatalism, alienation, and moral ambiguity, giving readers a psychological insight into the mind of a thief. The writing style is stark and psychological, reminiscent of Haruki Murakami, capturing the tension and immersion of the criminal underworld in Tokyo.

    In crowded shops, in other people’s houses, things I’d pick up furtively would slip from my fingers. Strangers’ possessions were like foreign objects that didn’t fit comfortably in my hands. They woul...

  2. #2

    The Great Passage by Shion Miura
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    'The Great Passage' by Shion Miura is a charming tale that follows the lives of obsessive lexicographers working on compiling a new Japanese language dictionary over a 12-year period. The story revolves around the protagonist Mitsuya Majime who is recruited to join the dictionary department and embarks on a journey of friendship, romance, and self-discovery. The book beautifully captures the love of words, the art of capturing their essence, and the human connections formed through the shared passion for language. The plot delves into the meticulous process of creating a dictionary, the personal growth of the characters, and the intricate debates over words and their meanings.

    The writing style of 'The Great Passage' is described as engaging, light, and enjoyable. The book is praised for its well-translated narrative that conveys the deep love and dedication the characters have for words. Readers appreciate the blend of romance, rivalry, ambition, and mortality woven into the story, making it a compelling and insightful read. The novel offers a glimpse into the world of lexicography, highlighting the care and effort put into compiling a dictionary, which is often taken for granted. Overall, 'The Great Passage' is commended for its heartwarming storytelling, rich character development, and exploration of the profound impact of words on people's lives.

    He had learned early on that dog contained other meanings besides the four-legged animal. Once when his father had taken him to the movies, a blood-spattered gangster, betrayed and dying on screen, sp...

  3. #3

    Out by Natsuo Kirino
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    'Out' by Natsuo Kirino is a gripping thriller that follows the story of four Japanese women working together in a boxed lunch factory. When one of the women kills her abusive husband, the others help her dispose of the body, leading them into a dark and dangerous journey involving the yakuza, loan sharks, and a psychopath. The novel delves into the complexities of female relationships, societal pressures, and the consequences of desperate actions in a gritty and realistic portrayal of the underbelly of Japanese society.

    The writing style of 'Out' is described as powerful, disturbing, and intense. The novel combines elements of crime fiction, social commentary, and psychological thriller, showcasing the struggles and vulnerabilities of the characters as they navigate through a world filled with darkness, violence, and unexpected twists. presents a thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche, morality, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

    She got to the parking lot earlier than usual. The thick, damp July darkness engulfed her as she stepped out of the car. Perhaps it was the heat and humidity, but the night seemed especially black and...

  4. #4

    The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa
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    In "The Housekeeper and the Professor" by Yoko Ogawa, the story revolves around an elderly mathematician who, due to a head injury, can only retain memories for eighty minutes at a time. The professor forms a special bond with his housekeeper and her son, as they navigate the challenges of his condition while delving into the beauty of numbers and mathematics. The book explores themes of friendship, memory, and the significance of human relationships, all intertwined with a subtle undertone involving the fragility of memory and the eternal nature of numbers.

    The novel is character-driven, focusing on the development of the three main characters - the professor, the housekeeper, and her son. Through the daily interactions between the characters, the author skillfully weaves in math concepts, showcasing the magic of numbers and how they bring this unlikely trio together. The writing style is described as quiet, tender, and beautifully poignant, leaving a lasting impact on the reader long after the final page is turned.

    "Yes, there is," he said, pointing at his chest. "It's in here. It'sthe most discreet sort of number, so it never comes out where itcan be seen. But it's here." We fell silent for a moment, trying top...

  5. #5

    In the Miso Soup by Ryu Murakami
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    Set in contemporary Japan, 'In the Miso Soup' by Ryu Murakami follows the story of Kenji, a sex tourist guide who is hired by an American client named Frank. As Kenji accompanies Frank around the nightlife of Tokyo, suspicions arise about Frank's true intentions, leading to a chilling revelation that changes Kenji's life forever. The book delves into themes of cultural differences, alienation, loneliness, and the dark realities of the modern world, all while exploring the gritty and grimy side of Tokyo.

    The narrative of 'In the Miso Soup' is a disturbing yet engaging journey through the demented mind of the characters, particularly focusing on the unconventional relationship between Kenji and Frank. The author, Ryu Murakami, intricately weaves together elements of horror, suspense, and social commentary, providing a searing glance into the dark side of Japanese society and human nature, all within a compact and intense storyline.

    As I pronounced these words in English I wondered why we have so many ways of saying the same thing in Japanese. Hard-boiled: Ore no na wa Kenji da. Polite: Watashi wa Kenji to moshimasu. Casual: Boku...

  6. #6

    No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai
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    "No Longer Human" by Osamu Dazai is a bleak and introspective novel that delves into the life of Oba Yozo, a character struggling with feelings of alienation and disconnection from society. The book explores themes of loneliness, suicide, and existential dread through Yozo's eyes as he navigates a world where he feels like an outsider. The writing style is described as powerful and impactful, with a narrative that captures the protagonist's internal turmoil and despair in a poignant manner.

    I can’t even guess myself what it must be to live the life of a human being. I was born in a village in the Northeast, and it wasn’t until I was quite big that I saw my first train. I climbed up and d...

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