Letter from Japan

Tidying expert Kondo (The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up) offers a heartfelt celebration of Japan and its culture. Observing that “my upbringing is fundamental to my chosen career and philosophy in life,” the author surveys the Japanese customs that inspire her, from making onigiri, or hand-formed rice balls, to expressing mottainai, or “profound regret over discarding... something that could still serve a purpose.” Some of her cherished traditions are familiar (meditative Japanese gardens, manga) or standard vacation tips (relaxing in hot springs). But some are lesser-known, such as takigyo, “the long-held tradition of praying... while standing underneath a waterfall,” and the esoteric ma, the silent pause or empty space that “forms the foundation of Japanese culture and lifestyle.” Kondo’s breezy reflections are bolstered with historical anecdotes and etymologies (kawaii, or “cute,” evolved from a phrase referring to “situations that were embarrassing” but also “evoked pity”). The book also lends fascinating insight into Kondo herself, from her younger years participating in an after-school Japanese tea club and serving as a “shrine maiden,” to the cultural whiplash she experienced when moving to the U.S. Kondo never strays far from her passion for tidying as she details how Japanese culture informs her methods. It’s an endearing love letter to the country that formed a popular philosophy. (Oct.)