The Greatest Asian "Friendship" Books of All Time

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Friendship

The "Friendship" category of books focuses on the relationships between individuals who share a deep bond of mutual affection, trust, and support. These books explore the complexities of friendship, including the challenges and rewards of maintaining close connections over time. They often depict the joys and struggles of navigating the ups and downs of life with the help of loyal companions, and may touch on themes such as loyalty, forgiveness, and the power of human connection. Whether exploring the dynamics of childhood friendships or the complexities of adult relationships, books in this category offer readers a heartwarming and insightful look into the power of friendship.

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  1. 1. Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

    The novel is a haunting tale of three friends, who grow up together at a seemingly idyllic English boarding school. As they mature, they discover a dark secret about their school and the purpose of their existence, which is to become organ donors for the rest of society. The story is a profound exploration of what it means to be human, the morality of scientific innovation, and the heartbreaking reality of love and loss.

  2. 2. Swami and Friends by R. K. Narayan

    Set in the fictional town of Malgudi in South India, the book follows the story of a ten-year-old boy named Swami and his adventures with his friends. The narrative encapsulates the trials and tribulations of school life, family relationships, and friendships in a traditional Indian context. The book is a charming exploration of a child's life in a small town, filled with humor and poignant moments.

  3. 3. Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto

    The book is a poignant tale of love, life, and loss intertwined with the themes of food and kitchens. The narrative follows a young woman who, after the death of her grandmother, finds solace in the home of her friend and his transgender mother. As she navigates her grief, she also grapples with her growing feelings for her friend. The story explores the complexities of relationships, the concept of home, and the healing power of cooking.

  4. 4. Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

    Set in 19th century China, the novel centers around the lifelong friendship of Lily and Snow Flower. Despite their different social classes, the two communicate through a secret language known as "nu shu" written on a fan. The story explores the rigid societal norms of the time, particularly the practice of foot binding and arranged marriages. As they navigate through the hardships of their lives, their friendship is tested, leading to a devastating betrayal that impacts their relationship.

  5. 5. One Piece by Eiichiro Oda

    The book is a thrilling adventure that follows a young, ambitious pirate whose dream is to find the world's ultimate treasure, known as "One Piece," and thereby become the Pirate King. Along his journey, he gathers a diverse crew of loyal companions, each with their own unique abilities and dreams. They sail the Grand Line, facing off against other pirates, the World Government, and various powerful enemies, all while exploring mysterious islands, uncovering hidden secrets, and forging strong bonds of friendship. The story is renowned for its intricate plot, dynamic characters, and a world rich with fantastical elements and lore.

  6. 6. The Room On The Roof by Ruskin Bond

    "The Room On The Roof" is a coming-of-age story set in Dehradun, India. The protagonist, Rusty, is a sixteen-year-old Anglo-Indian boy who feels suffocated by the rules and expectations of his guardian. Seeking freedom and independence, he befriends a group of Indian boys and experiences the joys and challenges of adolescence. Through his adventures, Rusty learns valuable lessons about friendship, love, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

  7. 7. I'll Be Right There by Kyung-sook Shin

    This novel is a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and the human spirit set against the backdrop of 1980s South Korea, a time of intense political turmoil. Through the eyes of a young woman named Jung Yoon, the narrative delves into the profound connections she forms with her friends amidst the societal upheaval. As they navigate their way through personal loss, political activism, and the trials of young adulthood, the story beautifully captures the essence of relying on one another during times of distress. The novel is a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the ways in which it can provide solace and strength in the face of adversity.

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download