An Invitation to Join the Japanese Literature Challenge 6

I have never been in a Japanese garden...

seen the cherry blossoms in front of Mt. Fuji...

eaten real Japanese food...

or worn a Japanese school uniform...

But, I have read Japanese literature. Not in Japanese writing, but in translation, and it has enriched my life. In 2006 I began the first Japanese Literature Challenge, and now the time has come when we can begin the sixth annual Japanese Literature Challenge. It runs from June 1, 2012 until January 30, 2013. It requires the reading of at least one work of Japanese literature (or poetry) written by a Japanese author (or poet).

For me, the best part of this challenge is having my knowledge expanded by what participants have read. From their reviews, I have gleaned a suggested reading list, and I have set goals for what I wish to read this year myself. Those books include:

 

and, of course, there must be something by Murakami. I'm thinking we'll have a shared read of this:

Of course, there are many more works of Japanese literature on my shelf. These are just a few of the ones most pressing on my mind. Won't you join me? Will you take the next six months or so to read one, or more, books of Japanese literature and share them with us? If so, please sign up with the Mr. Linky and I will add your name to the JLC6 review site. So hope to see you there!

Here is a button if you'd like to use it: