Masterful writing and translation. Unrivalled sensitivity in Taiwanese and Japanese culture. A long-waited addition into the Taiwanese diaspora of Japanese literature about metropolitan life and geographical and emotional self-imposed exile.
I've rarely seen such precise and authentic portrayal of the life as an expat. The metaphors and depictions on language barriers and miscommunication are only too heartbreakingly true. The author also challenges hetetonormativity and cultural alienation in both Taiwanese and Japanese society. I don't think we deserve a genius like her.