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. Snakeskin Shamisen

   A Mas Arai Mystery

   

   "Snakeskin Shamisen" is a captivating mystery novel set in Los Angeles, following the life of Mas Arai, a Japanese-American gardener and Hiroshima survivor. When a fellow musician is found dead, Mas becomes entangled in a web of secrets and cultural tensions as he navigates the worlds of traditional Japanese music and the dark underbelly of the city. With vivid descriptions, complex characters, and a thought-provoking exploration of identity and heritage, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey through the hidden corners of LA.

   The 9510th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. Clark And Division

   

   Set against the backdrop of post-World War II Chicago, this gripping historical mystery follows a young Japanese American woman, Aki Ito, as she navigates the complexities of a new life after being released from an internment camp. Upon arriving in the city, Aki is devastated to learn of her sister Rose's untimely death, which the authorities have ruled a suicide. Determined to uncover the truth, Aki delves into the vibrant yet challenging world of Clark and Division streets, unraveling secrets and confronting prejudice while seeking justice for her sister. The narrative weaves a poignant tale of resilience, identity, and the enduring bonds of family.

3. 3. Gasa Gasa Girl

   

   Set against the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles, this compelling mystery follows Mas Arai, a Japanese-American gardener and Hiroshima survivor, as he navigates the complexities of family, culture, and identity. When his estranged daughter, Mari, becomes embroiled in a murder investigation, Mas is reluctantly drawn into the case. As he delves deeper, he uncovers secrets that challenge his understanding of loyalty and justice, while also confronting the ghosts of his past. The narrative weaves themes of generational conflict and cultural assimilation, offering a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience in America.

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4. 4. Blood Hina

   

   In this gripping mystery, a Japanese American gardener and amateur sleuth finds himself embroiled in a web of intrigue and danger when a valuable set of traditional Japanese dolls, known as Hina, goes missing. As he navigates the complexities of cultural heritage, family secrets, and the undercurrents of Los Angeles' diverse communities, he must unravel the truth behind the theft. With a blend of historical insight and contemporary issues, the story delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and the enduring impact of the past on the present.

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5. 5. Strawberry Yellow

   

   In this intriguing mystery, a Japanese-American gardener finds himself embroiled in a tangled web of secrets and lies when he returns to Watsonville, California, for a family funeral. As he navigates the complexities of his family's strawberry farm, he uncovers a series of suspicious events that lead him to suspect foul play. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human nature, he must unravel the truth behind a murder that threatens to destroy the legacy of the farm and the bonds that tie his family together.

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6. 6. Summer Of The Big Bachi

   

   In this gripping mystery set in the vibrant Japanese-American community of Los Angeles, a former Hiroshima survivor, Mas Arai, finds his quiet life as a gardener disrupted when a figure from his past resurfaces, threatening to unravel secrets he has long buried. As Mas reluctantly delves into the investigation, he must confront the haunting memories of his wartime experiences and navigate a web of deceit and betrayal. The story intricately weaves themes of cultural identity, redemption, and the enduring impact of history, all while maintaining a suspenseful and engaging narrative.

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