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Big in Japan
Buck Cooper is big. So big, in fact, that people don’t see him anymore—not at work, not in his love life. He’s become 300+ pounds of invisible. But when a family situation shanghais this Texan to Tokyo, suddenly being big makes him a spectacle—in a good way, especially when the spotlight at a sporting match lands on Buck and forces him into the sumo ring. Will this accident of fate be Buck’s chance of a lifetime, making him Big in Japan?
BIG IN JAPAN lifts the curtain to the secret world of sumo wrestling as Buck navigates the always treacherous, sometimes deadly world steeped in Asian culture—often with hilarious results. Like Beverly Hills Ninja meets sumo.
Travel through the streets and alleys and sumo arenas of Japan. Cheer for underdog Buck—not only as he faces off against the biggest enemies on earth, but also as his unswerving goodness opens the door to a possible romance with the princess of sumo.
More than just Sumo 101 or a feel-good sports comedy, BIG IN JAPAN has been selected as a literary text in high school and university classrooms for its themes of interracial romance, bullying, overcoming obstacles, cultural identity, and obesity, as well as its rich storyline as Buck triumphs in a harsh but fulfilling environment.
BIG IN JAPAN lifts the curtain to the secret world of sumo wrestling as Buck navigates the always treacherous, sometimes deadly world steeped in Asian culture—often with hilarious results. Like Beverly Hills Ninja meets sumo.
Travel through the streets and alleys and sumo arenas of Japan. Cheer for underdog Buck—not only as he faces off against the biggest enemies on earth, but also as his unswerving goodness opens the door to a possible romance with the princess of sumo.
More than just Sumo 101 or a feel-good sports comedy, BIG IN JAPAN has been selected as a literary text in high school and university classrooms for its themes of interracial romance, bullying, overcoming obstacles, cultural identity, and obesity, as well as its rich storyline as Buck triumphs in a harsh but fulfilling environment.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
17 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Griffith
90 books351 followersDo you love free e-books? Check out my website to see how to get a free book. http://authorjennifergriffith.com
I love a story that ends with a kiss, whether it's a book or a movie. That's the big payoff! So that's the kind of books I like to write, and I call my style "cotton candy for the soul"-- light, sweet, gone. We all need a little escape from reality for a while, and escapist fiction can be the perfect remedy.
I'm a moderately bad housekeeper, I have a black thumb, and it takes a small miracle to get my hair to curl. My handsome husband and I live in the Arizona desert where we're raising our five children, who never let us stop laughing.
I love a story that ends with a kiss, whether it's a book or a movie. That's the big payoff! So that's the kind of books I like to write, and I call my style "cotton candy for the soul"-- light, sweet, gone. We all need a little escape from reality for a while, and escapist fiction can be the perfect remedy.
I'm a moderately bad housekeeper, I have a black thumb, and it takes a small miracle to get my hair to curl. My handsome husband and I live in the Arizona desert where we're raising our five children, who never let us stop laughing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 31, 2012
When fellow author Jennifer Griffith Stewart fist told me about her newest novel, Big in Japan, my reaction was: "Wow, that's different. It will either be an embarrassing flop, or a huge success."
Now that I've had the pleasure of reading her book, I'm going with huge success.
This isn't my usual thing. It's about an ordinary guy who has an ordinary job. The only thing unusual about him is that he's unusually obese. He views himself as invisible, since that's how others treat him, which is ironic, really because he's so huge that he'd be hard to miss. But overlooked he is, over and over again. Until he visits Japan and becomes--accidentally--a sumo wrestler.
Yeah. A sumo wrestler.
Like I said, this isn't my usual thing and I was as surprised as I was delighted that I liked this book. Really liked it. The hero is so likable. He's really a knight in shining armor disguised as a big fat guy, and I can't help but cheer for him from the very beginning.
The author knows her stuff, too. Though a few of the Japanese words threw me, she did a good job of keeping the reader informed of what everything meant and who all the characters were. The romance was beautifully done, and while it seemed hopeless through most of the book, there is the promised happily ever after.
Now that I've had the pleasure of reading her book, I'm going with huge success.
This isn't my usual thing. It's about an ordinary guy who has an ordinary job. The only thing unusual about him is that he's unusually obese. He views himself as invisible, since that's how others treat him, which is ironic, really because he's so huge that he'd be hard to miss. But overlooked he is, over and over again. Until he visits Japan and becomes--accidentally--a sumo wrestler.
Yeah. A sumo wrestler.
Like I said, this isn't my usual thing and I was as surprised as I was delighted that I liked this book. Really liked it. The hero is so likable. He's really a knight in shining armor disguised as a big fat guy, and I can't help but cheer for him from the very beginning.
The author knows her stuff, too. Though a few of the Japanese words threw me, she did a good job of keeping the reader informed of what everything meant and who all the characters were. The romance was beautifully done, and while it seemed hopeless through most of the book, there is the promised happily ever after.
May 16, 2017
The parts of this book that are good are so good that it warrant this high rating. I completely loved the book while I was reading it. However, as I have mulled over the book my enjoyment dims a bit because of some truncated elements of the plot that make it less fulfilling and silly in places.
What I loved: This book takes a deep dive into Sumo culture. I show up for this kind of detailed exploration in my romance novels. Clap my hands and give me a cool drink, I settle in.
Sumo hazing is crazy. I love me some Sumo (yeah not a sentence that most Westerns say but there it is) and was thrilled to to seek out this book based in the world of Sumo. It was really wonderful. The story showcases the sport, the athleticism and the culture.
The setting in Japan through our hero Buck's (clearly and American) eyes well done. I got very hungry reading this story. All the senses are used to tell the tale of living in a vastly different place than he is use to and it is well done.
His hero's journey is lovely to trace. Buck is the best person. His motivation are human and he is good without being saccharine. He does the right thing because that is his nature but the writer is gifted at showcasing how hard these choices can be for so many reasons.
The body issues that are explored here are powerfully rendered looking at culture, self worth masculinity, bullying and other nuances.
Buck works hard and is open minded. Love him!
When he falls in love, it is sweet. (FYI this book never gets past kisses which is a nice break from hotter fare).
However, the romance could have been way more developed, They are hardly ever together. We needed more couple time, I really would have liked some of the book from the heroine's point of view. She remains pretty idolized.
There is crazy side plots of all kinds that are way over the top. Those are sort of fun but need to be balanced with more relationship development.
So, 3.5!
What I loved: This book takes a deep dive into Sumo culture. I show up for this kind of detailed exploration in my romance novels. Clap my hands and give me a cool drink, I settle in.
Sumo hazing is crazy. I love me some Sumo (yeah not a sentence that most Westerns say but there it is) and was thrilled to to seek out this book based in the world of Sumo. It was really wonderful. The story showcases the sport, the athleticism and the culture.
The setting in Japan through our hero Buck's (clearly and American) eyes well done. I got very hungry reading this story. All the senses are used to tell the tale of living in a vastly different place than he is use to and it is well done.
His hero's journey is lovely to trace. Buck is the best person. His motivation are human and he is good without being saccharine. He does the right thing because that is his nature but the writer is gifted at showcasing how hard these choices can be for so many reasons.
The body issues that are explored here are powerfully rendered looking at culture, self worth masculinity, bullying and other nuances.
Buck works hard and is open minded. Love him!
When he falls in love, it is sweet. (FYI this book never gets past kisses which is a nice break from hotter fare).
However, the romance could have been way more developed, They are hardly ever together. We needed more couple time, I really would have liked some of the book from the heroine's point of view. She remains pretty idolized.
There is crazy side plots of all kinds that are way over the top. Those are sort of fun but need to be balanced with more relationship development.
So, 3.5!
July 27, 2012
Jennifer Griffith’s newest novel, Big in Japan, tells the story of Buck Cooper, a Texas gentleman with a heart as large his home state and a body and self-esteem problem to match. What starts as a supporting role in a family business trip to Tokyo ends with Buck staying in Japan training to be a sumo wrestler as the kohai to the Kawaguchi Stable’s star ozeki, Torakiba. Torakiba is the senpai from hell, subjecting Buck as his kohai to humiliating tasks including foot washing and warm watermelon spit. There’s also a love interest, Cho-cho san, who like the butterfly she’s named for flits in and out of Buck’s life, motivating him to prove to himself and the sumo world that he’s got what it takes.
Buck may be big in Japan, but in Hawaii sumo is huge. The first foreign-born non-Japanese sumo champion was Jesse Kuhaulua, fighting name Takamiyama Daigoro. He was born on Maui and his career spanned twenty years from 1964-1984. Growing up in Kahului, we all knew Jesse and followed his career avidly. When he came home to visit family, the whole town came out to greet him. I can still him in his traditional Japanese attire as he majestically strolled across our school’s parking lot, smiling and waving at us as we peeked out from behind the monkey pod tree.
Since I knew a little about sumo and what it takes to succeed in Japan as a foreign-born wrestler, I was intrigued by Griffith’s premise. While Big in Japan does touch on some of the modern criticisms and controversies in sumo wrestling, at its heart it’s a love story with coming of age themes told with a humorous, light touch. It’s Buck’s story of leaving home in order to find his true self. Westerners will get a taste of some of the cultural differences and an idea of what it takes to be a sumo wrestler, but it’s Buck’s inner and outer transformation combined with his hilarious inner monologue that’s the draw here. Griffith sometimes compares her books to cotton candy—something sweet, light, frothy, enjoyed, and gone, but I think this novel has more weight behind it, more like a makizushi meal than a simple sweet treat.
Buck may be big in Japan, but in Hawaii sumo is huge. The first foreign-born non-Japanese sumo champion was Jesse Kuhaulua, fighting name Takamiyama Daigoro. He was born on Maui and his career spanned twenty years from 1964-1984. Growing up in Kahului, we all knew Jesse and followed his career avidly. When he came home to visit family, the whole town came out to greet him. I can still him in his traditional Japanese attire as he majestically strolled across our school’s parking lot, smiling and waving at us as we peeked out from behind the monkey pod tree.
Since I knew a little about sumo and what it takes to succeed in Japan as a foreign-born wrestler, I was intrigued by Griffith’s premise. While Big in Japan does touch on some of the modern criticisms and controversies in sumo wrestling, at its heart it’s a love story with coming of age themes told with a humorous, light touch. It’s Buck’s story of leaving home in order to find his true self. Westerners will get a taste of some of the cultural differences and an idea of what it takes to be a sumo wrestler, but it’s Buck’s inner and outer transformation combined with his hilarious inner monologue that’s the draw here. Griffith sometimes compares her books to cotton candy—something sweet, light, frothy, enjoyed, and gone, but I think this novel has more weight behind it, more like a makizushi meal than a simple sweet treat.
August 23, 2012
Loved it!
I've said it before, but I'll say it again, characters really make a book for me. And the characters in Big In Japan, all of them, just jumped off the page.
The story line wasn't as light-hearted as I thought it would be. I found myself getting angry several times and feeling so bad for Buck I wanted to hug him. But with everything he went through you could see his character grow and I loved him even more!
This book is definitely worth your time!
I've said it before, but I'll say it again, characters really make a book for me. And the characters in Big In Japan, all of them, just jumped off the page.
The story line wasn't as light-hearted as I thought it would be. I found myself getting angry several times and feeling so bad for Buck I wanted to hug him. But with everything he went through you could see his character grow and I loved him even more!
This book is definitely worth your time!
May 30, 2017
Don't bother with this one. I'm surprised that I finished it myself. Oddly, it came highly recommended as one of the "must read" books of 2012 in the newspaper. All I can say to that is, "Why?" I mean, seriously. Okay, so maybe the IDEA of the book might be amusing, but the writing was very amateur. I felt like I was back in 9th grade reading all that mormon fiction (which I refuse to acknowledge that I actually read here on goodreads). The writing was that-bad. Even the some-what promising story fizzled and became predictable, and then became outright embarrassing. Some books lack prose, some lack story, this book lacks both. Perhaps I am being too harsh, perhaps my long stint of good literature has turned me into I book snob (I would prefer to say I have "refined taste" now). Still, it wasn't SO bad, that I just couldn't finish. Judge for yourself.
August 20, 2012
Sumo. A brand new world to me. And I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. The heart of the story lies in Buck Cooper, a 400 lbs Texan, who suddenly finds himself in a sumo match. It follows his struggle to break into an impossible world (for a blonde-haired American)and rise in the ranks of Sumo. His integrity and determination made my heart melt and cheer for him through the horrible hazing, impossible odds, and injustice that happens all around him and even to him. Buck Cooper is my new hero! Jennifer Griffith's imagery and knowledge of Japan enveloped me on a tale of the incredible world of Sumo.
November 29, 2022
(Updated review because I was too tired to coherently write it when I actually finished the book)
I'm convinced half the reviews for this book are either paid or from family/friends of the author because there is absolutely no way someone read even just one page of this book and thought it was worth a five-star review. For one, it's just flat-out racist?? Like when Buck's Indian co-workers are described in the beginning as smelling strongly of curry?? wtf?? Also, just the general language Griffiths uses to describe Japanese culture, or any culture outside of Texan culture, reads as really demeaning and, at times, seems a bit fetishizing which just makes this a super uncomfy read. If I didn't have to read this for class, I would have stopped reading after the first chapter. Even if this was intentional or meant as a critique of how Americans view other cultures, it does not come across that way since the author is a white woman.
Also, the writing was just not good at all. Felt like something a middle schooler would attempt. There were so many useless pop culture references that added absolutely nothing to the story. Also, these are some of the most boring characters I have ever encountered in my entire life.
There are so many other things I can complain about when it comes to this book, like Griffith's awful portrayal of women (we love slut shaming so cool so fun) and also her portrayal of fat people (even sumo wrestlers are only allowed to be ashamed of their bodies), but if I actually went into everything I hated about the book this review would never end. Don't bother reading. (Unless, of course, you're assigned to like I was. In that case, good luck my guy.)
I'm convinced half the reviews for this book are either paid or from family/friends of the author because there is absolutely no way someone read even just one page of this book and thought it was worth a five-star review. For one, it's just flat-out racist?? Like when Buck's Indian co-workers are described in the beginning as smelling strongly of curry?? wtf?? Also, just the general language Griffiths uses to describe Japanese culture, or any culture outside of Texan culture, reads as really demeaning and, at times, seems a bit fetishizing which just makes this a super uncomfy read. If I didn't have to read this for class, I would have stopped reading after the first chapter. Even if this was intentional or meant as a critique of how Americans view other cultures, it does not come across that way since the author is a white woman.
Also, the writing was just not good at all. Felt like something a middle schooler would attempt. There were so many useless pop culture references that added absolutely nothing to the story. Also, these are some of the most boring characters I have ever encountered in my entire life.
There are so many other things I can complain about when it comes to this book, like Griffith's awful portrayal of women (we love slut shaming so cool so fun) and also her portrayal of fat people (even sumo wrestlers are only allowed to be ashamed of their bodies), but if I actually went into everything I hated about the book this review would never end. Don't bother reading. (Unless, of course, you're assigned to like I was. In that case, good luck my guy.)
July 27, 2012
For my complete review, visit Perpetual Chaos of a Wandering Mind
In Big In Japan, Jennifer Griffith manages to pen a humorous, engaging and heartfelt tale of someone of stature without resorting to stereotypes and clichés. She approaches the differences between the obese and the svelt, East and West, male and female with a deft hand and a kind heart.
She uses Buck Cooper's mass to propel her plot and create challenges for him, not define his character. Buck is actually pretty likable with lots of hopes and dreams and disappointments. He has been raised a Texas gentleman, is always willing to lend a helping hand, and possesses a generous nature. He's an avid sports fan and a brilliant statistician. He stands up for his beliefs and values his honor.
Jennifer Griffith hits the bull's eye in her portrayal of Buck's unhappy life in the land of surgically altered and artificially enhanced beautiful people, and the bullies both child and adult who zero in on the large targets who don't fit in. When Buck stumbles into the life of a sumo wrestler, the reader truly wants this nice guy to finish first.
Jennifer Griffith gives Buck a hefty dose of action, peril, bigotry both at home and abroad, moral dilemmas and romantic quandaries. She gives him successes and failures big and small right up to the last page. Her in-depth exploration of the hidden world of sumo wrestling, its traditions, culture and scandals both intrigues and enlightens.
Jennifer Griffith expertly crafts a world at the same time foreign and familiar. Through Buck Cooper, his family, his friends and his loves, she slices through the stereotypes and reveals how truly kindred are all the peoples of the world. Set against the fascinating backdrop of the Land of the Rising Sun, readers will enjoy time and again this heartfelt journey through the mundane and exotic.
FTC disclaimer: A paperback copy of this book was provided by the author or their agent with the understanding I would publish a fair and honest review. I receive no other compensation for this content.
In Big In Japan, Jennifer Griffith manages to pen a humorous, engaging and heartfelt tale of someone of stature without resorting to stereotypes and clichés. She approaches the differences between the obese and the svelt, East and West, male and female with a deft hand and a kind heart.
She uses Buck Cooper's mass to propel her plot and create challenges for him, not define his character. Buck is actually pretty likable with lots of hopes and dreams and disappointments. He has been raised a Texas gentleman, is always willing to lend a helping hand, and possesses a generous nature. He's an avid sports fan and a brilliant statistician. He stands up for his beliefs and values his honor.
Jennifer Griffith hits the bull's eye in her portrayal of Buck's unhappy life in the land of surgically altered and artificially enhanced beautiful people, and the bullies both child and adult who zero in on the large targets who don't fit in. When Buck stumbles into the life of a sumo wrestler, the reader truly wants this nice guy to finish first.
Jennifer Griffith gives Buck a hefty dose of action, peril, bigotry both at home and abroad, moral dilemmas and romantic quandaries. She gives him successes and failures big and small right up to the last page. Her in-depth exploration of the hidden world of sumo wrestling, its traditions, culture and scandals both intrigues and enlightens.
Jennifer Griffith expertly crafts a world at the same time foreign and familiar. Through Buck Cooper, his family, his friends and his loves, she slices through the stereotypes and reveals how truly kindred are all the peoples of the world. Set against the fascinating backdrop of the Land of the Rising Sun, readers will enjoy time and again this heartfelt journey through the mundane and exotic.
FTC disclaimer: A paperback copy of this book was provided by the author or their agent with the understanding I would publish a fair and honest review. I receive no other compensation for this content.
August 3, 2012
This was a fun read. A brief intro: big blond Texan Buck has no luck in his slightly pathetic attempts to talk to (let alone date) the girl at his office. Then his parents need him to accompany them on a week-long trip to Japan. Amid the culture shock of Tokyo he attends a sumo wrestling match and is asked (on national TV no less) to enter the ring for a pre-match sumo "skit". To the surprise of everyone he doesn't make a complete fool of himself, and after that the rumors fly that he'll be the first blond sumo wrestler Japan has ever seen. Will he trade his former life for the potential pain and glory of sumo wrestling in a country where he can't even communicate properly? Well, of course!
I really liked Buck--he is a strong hero (not just physically). He has a lot of the nice-guy southern gentleman about him, which both helps and hurts him. But it also makes him perfect for the good guy role in what is a bit of an epic situation for a country boy.
The book is certainly not trying to describe gritty reality; it has a few too many happy coincidences to feel entirely real. But it entirely succeeds with what it is: an enjoyable adventure with strong conflicts, light romance and a happy ending.
I really liked Buck--he is a strong hero (not just physically). He has a lot of the nice-guy southern gentleman about him, which both helps and hurts him. But it also makes him perfect for the good guy role in what is a bit of an epic situation for a country boy.
The book is certainly not trying to describe gritty reality; it has a few too many happy coincidences to feel entirely real. But it entirely succeeds with what it is: an enjoyable adventure with strong conflicts, light romance and a happy ending.
November 18, 2013
Initially I was a little startled by the plot, but I was definitely intrigued. I have enjoyed this author's books and have been learning about the Japanese culture for the last few years, so I gave "Big in Japan" a chance; I'm glad I did.
I didn't know very much about sumo and I probably have plenty more to learn about it, but this book fascinated me. I was also really happy that I recognized a lot of the Japanese words/phrases used throughout this book; I guess I know more Japanese than I realized.
Not only was the plot wonderful, but the characters as well. I really liked Buck, the main character, and I could relate to him. He was a very down-to-earth guy who found himself in a very unique situation. I loved that he stayed a very kind, considerate gentleman- despite his situation.
All in all I was very pleasantly surprised by this novel. It was definitely not what I am used to running into; this made made me more than a little happy. This was a unique and thoroughly enjoyable book. I highly recommend it.
I didn't know very much about sumo and I probably have plenty more to learn about it, but this book fascinated me. I was also really happy that I recognized a lot of the Japanese words/phrases used throughout this book; I guess I know more Japanese than I realized.
Not only was the plot wonderful, but the characters as well. I really liked Buck, the main character, and I could relate to him. He was a very down-to-earth guy who found himself in a very unique situation. I loved that he stayed a very kind, considerate gentleman- despite his situation.
All in all I was very pleasantly surprised by this novel. It was definitely not what I am used to running into; this made made me more than a little happy. This was a unique and thoroughly enjoyable book. I highly recommend it.
April 4, 2013
Okay I knew this would be quality writing having read other work by Jennifer Griffith but to be honest, I never thought I could be interested in a book about a fat guy and sumo wrestling. When I dive into a book to be taken away, those are not my first choices for escape. That said and my shallowness now exposed, let me just say, I loved this book! It was hilarious in places, gut wrenching in others- not a fat joke I swear- and so involving that I forgot it was about a fat guy. Many of us can relate to being out of shape, over weight- please not that bad- and being on the outside watching everyone pass you by. Not many can relate to the kind of internal struggle, and fortitude it took for Buck to overcome his total life collapse. This is a great story and well worth the read- it will take you away and you won't be sorry!
September 25, 2018
Fresh, fun read
I loved this fast paced contemporary romance about Buck, an oversized but gentle Texan, who finds his niche as a sumo wrestler in Japan. An endearing comedy that’s hard to put down—unless you are only leaving briefly to watch sumo videos on YouTube.
I loved this fast paced contemporary romance about Buck, an oversized but gentle Texan, who finds his niche as a sumo wrestler in Japan. An endearing comedy that’s hard to put down—unless you are only leaving briefly to watch sumo videos on YouTube.
February 23, 2013
I highly recommend the novel, Big in Japan, by Jennifer Griffith, a mixed-genre story that pulls the reader into the interesting life of a stranger in modern-day Japan. The story has mystery, adventure, romance, and humor in near equal doses, presented in a story that hooked me and kept me reading to the end. Buck Cooper was a big Texas kid, who became an even bigger man. His size and weight had dominated his life, and not in a good way. He is a good-hearted person, intelligent, and witty, with a degree in data analysis, but because he is very tall and fat he never had a reciprocated love interest.
As a favor to his parents he takes time off from his job to travel with them to Japan, where his size and basic goodness makes him a celebrity among the sumo-loving Japanese. I have never understood the strong interest in the national sport of Japan, until I read this story. The intricacies and traditions of this ancient athletic competition are well explained by Mrs. Griffith, to the point that as the story progressed, from the rigorous and brutal “boot camp” type training to the professional tournaments, I felt myself admiring and cheering for Buck and his protagonist teammates. So in addition to the other genres mentioned in the first paragraph of this review, it is also a very good sports story. In fact for multiple weeks following its release, Big in Japan was the top selling sports story on Amazon.
The development of Buck’s first mutual, but forbidden, love relationship provides a satisfying story of both sweet romance and unselfish love. The dark elements of Japanese-centric extremist sumo fans and the underworld add danger and mystery to the story. Intermixed are the wonder, beauty, and sometimes weirdness of living in Japan. The author uses her experience of living and attending college in Japan to add wonderful detail and realism to the setting and culture in which Buck finds himself.
I found the book very compelling, hating when I had to stop to take care of daily life. Big in Japan is available in print, Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, and at bookstores throughout the US.
As a favor to his parents he takes time off from his job to travel with them to Japan, where his size and basic goodness makes him a celebrity among the sumo-loving Japanese. I have never understood the strong interest in the national sport of Japan, until I read this story. The intricacies and traditions of this ancient athletic competition are well explained by Mrs. Griffith, to the point that as the story progressed, from the rigorous and brutal “boot camp” type training to the professional tournaments, I felt myself admiring and cheering for Buck and his protagonist teammates. So in addition to the other genres mentioned in the first paragraph of this review, it is also a very good sports story. In fact for multiple weeks following its release, Big in Japan was the top selling sports story on Amazon.
The development of Buck’s first mutual, but forbidden, love relationship provides a satisfying story of both sweet romance and unselfish love. The dark elements of Japanese-centric extremist sumo fans and the underworld add danger and mystery to the story. Intermixed are the wonder, beauty, and sometimes weirdness of living in Japan. The author uses her experience of living and attending college in Japan to add wonderful detail and realism to the setting and culture in which Buck finds himself.
I found the book very compelling, hating when I had to stop to take care of daily life. Big in Japan is available in print, Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, and at bookstores throughout the US.
March 7, 2013
WHAT MY STARS MEAN:
5 Stars--the book had a profound impact on me. It touched me on some special level and lingered with me long after I'd finished reading it.
4 Stars--I loved this book. If I don't own it, I will buy it so I can read it again and again.
3 Stars--I enjoyed the book but may have had an issue or two with it.
2 Stars--I had more than a few issues with it.
1 Stars--I hated it.
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
Buck Cooper doesn't remember when he became invisible. It was probably around the time he hit 300 pounds, and that was quite a few pounds ago. At six-foot-six, he's the elephant in the room nobody notices. Still, his social leprosy doesn't keep him from putting in for a promotion in the stats department, or from carrying a torch for the gorgeous Alison, who just might see through the blubber to the real Buck inside.
So when Buck gets Shanghaied to Tokyo for a family emergency, the last thing he expects is to be marveled at everywhere he goes. Little kids run up to him and want to pull the hair on his arms. He's suddenly the Jolly Blond Giant.
As his life takes a new turn in a country where being big can mean fame and fortune, Buck must embark on the most dangerous yet adventurous ride of his life--to find the ultimate meaning of love and acceptance. Even if it means risking his life and giving up everything he has.
MY TAKE
Wow. An interesting and kind of awful look into the underbelly of the Sumo world in Japan. I felt so bad for Buck as he persevered in being the (literal) kicking boy for his famous and ambitious Senpai (trainer). It was a hard read sometimes while Buck--beaten down as the "fat kid" when he was growing up--took abuse (and I mean the rib-breaking kind) over and over again.
But don't get in the way of this nice, quiet Texan when his lady love is in danger (even from a power hungry Sumo who wants her only for her status).
The book has strong themes of racism (against whites), the Japanese Mafia, obesity discrimination, and of course romance.
5 Stars--the book had a profound impact on me. It touched me on some special level and lingered with me long after I'd finished reading it.
4 Stars--I loved this book. If I don't own it, I will buy it so I can read it again and again.
3 Stars--I enjoyed the book but may have had an issue or two with it.
2 Stars--I had more than a few issues with it.
1 Stars--I hated it.
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
Buck Cooper doesn't remember when he became invisible. It was probably around the time he hit 300 pounds, and that was quite a few pounds ago. At six-foot-six, he's the elephant in the room nobody notices. Still, his social leprosy doesn't keep him from putting in for a promotion in the stats department, or from carrying a torch for the gorgeous Alison, who just might see through the blubber to the real Buck inside.
So when Buck gets Shanghaied to Tokyo for a family emergency, the last thing he expects is to be marveled at everywhere he goes. Little kids run up to him and want to pull the hair on his arms. He's suddenly the Jolly Blond Giant.
As his life takes a new turn in a country where being big can mean fame and fortune, Buck must embark on the most dangerous yet adventurous ride of his life--to find the ultimate meaning of love and acceptance. Even if it means risking his life and giving up everything he has.
MY TAKE
Wow. An interesting and kind of awful look into the underbelly of the Sumo world in Japan. I felt so bad for Buck as he persevered in being the (literal) kicking boy for his famous and ambitious Senpai (trainer). It was a hard read sometimes while Buck--beaten down as the "fat kid" when he was growing up--took abuse (and I mean the rib-breaking kind) over and over again.
But don't get in the way of this nice, quiet Texan when his lady love is in danger (even from a power hungry Sumo who wants her only for her status).
The book has strong themes of racism (against whites), the Japanese Mafia, obesity discrimination, and of course romance.
March 15, 2013
Originally I decided to read this because it was written by my friend and fellow Jolly Fish Press author, Jennifer Stewart Griffith. I try to read and endorse books by authors I know. What surprised me was how much I enjoyed this book. It was just delightful!
Buck is a big guy. A really big guy. Like, built like a sumo wrestler big. He has an office-cubicle type job that he hates, though he has a crush on blond, bimbo-ish co-worker. He's waiting to hear about a promotion and the business is making cuts. Then his parents, who are going to Japan for a business deal his father is working on, ask him to go for moral support. In Japan, despite his blond hair and Texas drawl, most people in the streets think he's a sumo wrestler. Sumo wrestlers are the rock stars in Japan, so he gets a lot of attention. He's even invited to participate in a "guest sumo" demonstration, and he shows some natural skill.
To the horror of his parents, when he learns that not only did he not get a promotion, but he got laid off, and is approached about a sumo contract, he takes it and begins a life very unlike what he knew in the states. He makes friends, enemies, develops fame, skill, and a crush on a beautiful girl.
Griffith's writing is so tight and flowing that it feels like you just take a ride along the story. It's no work at all. Buck is such a guy! He reminded me of one of my brothers. He's sweet, lovable, but also competitive and determined to do the right thing when he finds less-than-desirable situations in the world around him. I couldn't help but love him and root for him. Once he got started, I had to keep reading to find out how things turned out.
And I laughed a lot while reading this book. Buck was hilarious! His thoughts, his reactions to things were hysterical, but also so typical and believable.
Overall, I totally loved this book and would recommend it to anyone! It's more than suitable for YA readers, but such a fun read that adults would love it too. If you haven't read this, you really need to. It's fabulous!
Buck is a big guy. A really big guy. Like, built like a sumo wrestler big. He has an office-cubicle type job that he hates, though he has a crush on blond, bimbo-ish co-worker. He's waiting to hear about a promotion and the business is making cuts. Then his parents, who are going to Japan for a business deal his father is working on, ask him to go for moral support. In Japan, despite his blond hair and Texas drawl, most people in the streets think he's a sumo wrestler. Sumo wrestlers are the rock stars in Japan, so he gets a lot of attention. He's even invited to participate in a "guest sumo" demonstration, and he shows some natural skill.
To the horror of his parents, when he learns that not only did he not get a promotion, but he got laid off, and is approached about a sumo contract, he takes it and begins a life very unlike what he knew in the states. He makes friends, enemies, develops fame, skill, and a crush on a beautiful girl.
Griffith's writing is so tight and flowing that it feels like you just take a ride along the story. It's no work at all. Buck is such a guy! He reminded me of one of my brothers. He's sweet, lovable, but also competitive and determined to do the right thing when he finds less-than-desirable situations in the world around him. I couldn't help but love him and root for him. Once he got started, I had to keep reading to find out how things turned out.
And I laughed a lot while reading this book. Buck was hilarious! His thoughts, his reactions to things were hysterical, but also so typical and believable.
Overall, I totally loved this book and would recommend it to anyone! It's more than suitable for YA readers, but such a fun read that adults would love it too. If you haven't read this, you really need to. It's fabulous!
September 5, 2012
Big in Japan by Jennifer Griffith is a well written novel that is fast paced and extremely engaging. With each turn of the page, I itched to see what would happen next. It’s an inspiring story of an underdog who goes through tremendous brutality to become a stronger and mightier man both physically and mentally.
Though many stories display their heroes as being of a certain acceptable weight and build, Griffith’s main character, Buck Cooper, is an obese Texan. Like a Sumo “Kung Fu Panda,” he takes the hits and stings of training, and brutal hazing, only to emerge as a Sumo knight in shining armor, fighting for what he knows to be right and for the chance to love and be loved by the girl of his dreams. Buck’s old-fashioned values of integrity and honesty, coupled with Southern charm and good manners, immediately endeared him to me, and he retained my support as he stuck to his strong values, even in the face of dire consequences. He emulates a true, everyday hero, someone I want to be like. I found myself cheering when he overcame and conquered, and cringing when he was cut down. I felt for this character. I deeply cared for Buck and what became of him.
Griffith’s vivid descriptions took me to the very streets of Japan, allowing me to experience its vibrant sights and smells. She brought the world of Japanese Sumo wrestling to life with brilliant narrative without slowing the story in any way. Big in Japan is a gem worth keeping in anyone’s treasure trove of books. Pick up your copy at Barnes and Noble, on Amazon e-readers or order it at any bookstore. This book is a keeper, one to be read over again.
Review by Elsie Park, author of Shadows of Valor.
Though many stories display their heroes as being of a certain acceptable weight and build, Griffith’s main character, Buck Cooper, is an obese Texan. Like a Sumo “Kung Fu Panda,” he takes the hits and stings of training, and brutal hazing, only to emerge as a Sumo knight in shining armor, fighting for what he knows to be right and for the chance to love and be loved by the girl of his dreams. Buck’s old-fashioned values of integrity and honesty, coupled with Southern charm and good manners, immediately endeared him to me, and he retained my support as he stuck to his strong values, even in the face of dire consequences. He emulates a true, everyday hero, someone I want to be like. I found myself cheering when he overcame and conquered, and cringing when he was cut down. I felt for this character. I deeply cared for Buck and what became of him.
Griffith’s vivid descriptions took me to the very streets of Japan, allowing me to experience its vibrant sights and smells. She brought the world of Japanese Sumo wrestling to life with brilliant narrative without slowing the story in any way. Big in Japan is a gem worth keeping in anyone’s treasure trove of books. Pick up your copy at Barnes and Noble, on Amazon e-readers or order it at any bookstore. This book is a keeper, one to be read over again.
Review by Elsie Park, author of Shadows of Valor.
May 20, 2013
Read it ASAP!
Let’s just take a moment to marvel at the glory that is the premise for this book…. Because it’s as awesome as it sounds. I loved every second of this story that takes the reader from a stuffy cubicle in Texas to the excitement of the Sumo ring to the dangerous Sumo underbelly to a first kiss in a garden. I laughed out loud many times, but also found great insight and depth. Buck, the main character is incredibly endearing with a genuine sense of humor, unfailing integrity and real struggles.
Buck may be an unlikely hero, but his story, including his love story, is expertly crafted by Jennifer Griffith. Readers will never forget Buck Cooper. Not only are the characters fabulous, but the atmosphere so alive. Jennifer takes the reader to the streets of Japan: the smells, the sights, the food, the people and immerses you in the precarious world of Sumo, something most of us know very little about.
Let’s just take a moment to marvel at the glory that is the premise for this book…. Because it’s as awesome as it sounds. I loved every second of this story that takes the reader from a stuffy cubicle in Texas to the excitement of the Sumo ring to the dangerous Sumo underbelly to a first kiss in a garden. I laughed out loud many times, but also found great insight and depth. Buck, the main character is incredibly endearing with a genuine sense of humor, unfailing integrity and real struggles.
Buck may be an unlikely hero, but his story, including his love story, is expertly crafted by Jennifer Griffith. Readers will never forget Buck Cooper. Not only are the characters fabulous, but the atmosphere so alive. Jennifer takes the reader to the streets of Japan: the smells, the sights, the food, the people and immerses you in the precarious world of Sumo, something most of us know very little about.
April 3, 2013
This book was hard for me to get into at first. I found it rather slow and stiff. With that said, it grew on me and definitely built momentum with the reading. I like a book where each chapter becomes more compelling than the last. Buck Cooper is a 6 foot 6 inch overweight Texan working at a job where he is under appreciated not only professionally but by the pretty secretary for whom he has a mad crush. We go from this scene to Buck training to be a Sumo wrestler in Japan. That doesn't sound slow and plodding does it? But the ground work is laid properly and Buck goes through the excruciating training process. I knew nothing about Sumo wrestling and can't think to highly of the hazing process to weed out the unworthy. Of course there is a girl and the pace does pick up. Buck is a man of principle but not your slim trim usual hero. It was a good read. Plenty of action and bad guys too.
October 3, 2016
I liked the concept of this book: Fat American guy goes to Japan and is surprised to see that he is respected for his body type and finds a place within the Sumo wrestling scene. It was pretty fun. What I didn't enjoy was the love story that was kind of thrown into the mix. Probably the corniest thing I've ever read - especially the last couple of pages of the book. I finished the book at about 2am and then reread the last two pages out loud to my wife to see if it really sounded as silly as I had thought. It did.
Aside from that and the fact that Buck is a morally perfect defender of damsels and all that is right in the world made for a lot of predictability in the book, it was enjoyable enough. It was fun to get all the insight into sumo wrestling and its place in Japanese culture.
Aside from that and the fact that Buck is a morally perfect defender of damsels and all that is right in the world made for a lot of predictability in the book, it was enjoyable enough. It was fun to get all the insight into sumo wrestling and its place in Japanese culture.
October 11, 2012
I'd heard about this book previous to its publication and was intrigued by its premise: a fat, blond, overlooked American guy goes to Japan and ends up becoming a professional sumo wrestler. I was so excited to get it when it came out, and it exceeded all my expectations. I laughed; I cried. Then I laughed some more. Buck is such an underdog, and the sport (which, I admit, I knew very little about) is brutal to newcomers. But his goodness and hard work help him to triumph in unexpected ways. One of the best books I've read all year.
February 26, 2013
Big in Japan is a fun and fast paced book. You can't help loving Buck because it's nice to have somebody whose just so gosh darn nice all the time, no matter what. Plus getting to see Japan in an everyday life sort of setting is very interesting. I loved the romance between Buck and Chocho and the wonderful characters that Buck interacts with throughout the book. This is a fun and interesting read!
November 30, 2012
I was disappointed. I like the story concept, and I'm always game for reading about other cultures, but the writing was too corny, and the plot too predictable. Anytime the underlying love story came into play, it read like a teen romance novel (clean, and good morals, but too much fluff). I would recommend this to teens who are more interested in storyline than rich writing.
December 22, 2012
I had high hopes from the great reviews. And then after I started I couldn't figure out how it got such high reviews. Realized only 17 people had reviewed it. So I was sucked in by the family and friend reviewers without realizing it. Not well written. Sweet premise and certainly a lovable main character. Needed a better editor.
September 20, 2012
This is one of the most engaging books I've read in a long time. I loved it! It's unique in a good way--I don't think I've read anything quite like it before. It's an off-beat, almost quirky story that really moved me. It's got something for everyone--a romance, action, interesting characters, you name it.
July 22, 2022
This was a different, but interesting, story about a really big guy from Texas who finds himself sort of accidentally training as a sumo wrestler in Japan. I was definitely rooting for the hero, who was very likable, and cringed at some of the training and brutal hazing he was put through. Some parts of the story seemed a bit far-fetched and coincidental, but it was a great underdog story!
August 29, 2012
Ok, this book was just such a fun read! I felt like I was actually in Japan and experiencing everything with the main character. As witty as it was, there was also a mysterious element that had me in high anticipation. Fabulous!
December 11, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed this. Jennifer was one of my roommates from my DC days PLUS I have a love for Japan from my high school days. So it started as an indulgent read for me, but I truly think it's a book anyone would enjoy.
March 7, 2013
Full Review Herehttp://morganhagey.blogspot.com/2013/03/book-review-big-in-japan-by-jennifer.html
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it!
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it!
June 11, 2012
This book isn't actually released yet. I read an Advance review copy. It's different, but I loved it.
April 1, 2018
I read this on vacation because I needed a paper book to read at the beach and Jen had this one from her book club. The premise of a really fat American going to Japan and becoming a Sumo wrestler sounded interesting so I gave it a shot. What I didn’t realize is that this is really a romance book which I discovered means that nothing in the plot needs to be remotely believable. Here is the whole story in a few sentences to save yourself the trouble of reading this nonsense. The fat guy literally goes to Japan and on the first day saves the future prime minister from being run over by a car. The pretties and richest girl in the country sees this happen and immediately falls in love with the 400 lb American. He then becomes a sumo wrestler, turns 400 pounds of fat laziness into 285 pounds of somewhat less fat and works his way up to the national championship bout which just happens to be against the pretty/rich chicks future husband that she doesn’t want to marry because she wants to marry our formerly super fat now only moderately fat hero. Her evil father promises her hand in marriage to the victor. Our hero wins of course but turns down the offer to marry the daughter even though he loves her because she is not property and should chose for herself. He then quits sumo and moves back to America thinking that rich chick doesn’t love him. She of course does (who wouldn’t?) but she couldn’t marry him at the time because her evil father won’t provide the money for a life saving operation for a little girl unless she stays. She somehow gets this worked out and comes to America and finds our hero at a Ranger’s game because she knows he has season tickets. She then moves out to his new farm with him. The end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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