Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Nip the Buds, Shoot the Kids

   

   This novel tells the story of a group of reformatory school boys evacuated to a remote mountain village in wartime. The boys are treated harshly by the villagers, who view them as little more than animals. When a plague breaks out, the villagers flee, leaving the boys behind to fend for themselves. The boys attempt to create their own society, but when the villagers return, they are once again treated as outcasts. The book is a powerful exploration of the themes of isolation, rejection, and the struggle for survival.

   The 2443rd Greatest Book of All Time

2. 2. A Personal Matter

   

   A Personal Matter is a novel that tells the story of Bird, a young man struggling to come to terms with the birth of his son who has a severe brain hernia. As he grapples with his personal demons and the societal stigma associated with having a disabled child, he also contemplates killing his son to end his suffering. The narrative explores themes of responsibility, shame, and the human condition, ultimately leading to Bird's acceptance of his son and his own life.

   The 2599th Greatest Book of All Time

3. 3. Teach Us To Outgrow Our Madness

   

   This book is a collection of four novellas that delve into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of family, madness, and the struggle for understanding in a post-war Japanese society. Through the eyes of its varied protagonists, including a father grappling with his son's disability and a man confronting his father's legacy, the narrative weaves a poignant examination of the human condition, the search for meaning, and the desire for redemption. The author's masterful storytelling and deep philosophical inquiries offer a profound commentary on the capacity for growth and the necessity of compassion in the face of life's inherent challenges.

   The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time

4. 4. Hiroshima Notes

   

   "Hiroshima Notes" is a poignant collection of essays that delve into the aftermath of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, exploring the enduring impact on the survivors and the city itself. The author, through a series of visits to Hiroshima in the 1960s, reflects on the moral and ethical implications of nuclear warfare, the resilience of the human spirit, and the responsibilities of humanity. Through interviews with survivors and thoughtful contemplation, the book provides a deep and multifaceted perspective on suffering, healing, and the quest for peace in the shadow of one of history's most devastating events.

   The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
5. 5. Somersault

   

   The novel explores the aftermath of a failed doomsday cult in Japan, led by two men who had prophesied an apocalypse that never occurred. After their prophecy fails, they attempt to disband the cult but struggle as their followers resist and violence ensues. The leaders try to rebuild their lives amidst the chaos, grappling with their guilt and the consequences of their actions. The book is a deep exploration of faith, redemption, and the power of belief.

   The 6262nd Greatest Book of All Time