Book Review: The Street of A Thousand Blossoms

by Gail Tsukiyama. I bought this book in the United States last summer and waited to read until the cherry blossoms were on display in Tokyo. The story is about the lives of two boys, who live in the Yanaka neighborhood of Tokyo, and their extended family. It spans three decades including pre and post war. One of the main characters aspires to become an artisan of masks, created from cyprus wood, for the Noh Theatre and the other main character aspires to become a grand champion sumo wrestler. To be honest, prior to reading this book I had very little interest in these two ancient Japanese traditions, Noh and Sumo. Now, I can’t wait to find the opportunity to experience both. It’s a good reminder to not judge too quickly. At first glance, Sumo and Noh look a little “odd”. Especially the large nearly naked men slamming into one another. Now with some explanation, my minds moved from “odd” to “intriguing”. The book was good, full of emotion, but a little long. Nonetheless, informative enough to make me want to learn more.