The Singing Widow of a Buddhist Priest

by Ruth Reiner

A rich, fun, spicy novel about the all-time, most impossible journey of an American woman determined to make it in Japan.

When Sarah Green discovers her destiny is to tie her life with Japan, she does everything possible to make it there. This, however, comes with a price. As she climbs up the corporate ladder in her Tokyo-based, Japanese firm, everything else falls apart. Only the singing widow of a Buddhist priest, a white Persian cat, an ex-sumo champion, and a handsome mystery man can help her mold together her scattered self into a version of the woman she truly thirsts to be.

The Singing Widow of a Buddhist Priest is narrated in Sarah Green’s witty, determined and, at times, insecure voice. The novel is humorous yet elegant in both its descriptions of Japan and its culture. It is a must read for Japan lovers, especially for those who can enjoy light reading and never stop believing that dreams can come true

Genres: Japan, Fiction, Contemporary

211 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 7, 2020

About the author

In her mid-twenties, Reiner spent a year as a guest of the Oomoto Shinto shrine and community in the countryside of Kyoto. During her time in Japan, the author learned the traditional ways of Japanese life, before going on to earn a Japan-focused-MBA from the University of Hawaii and the Japan-American Institute of Management Science and spending a decade, leading business negotiations between Japanese and non-Japanese companies. In recent years, Reiner co-founded three startups then decided to intricately weave her experiences into a highly relevant novel so she could share with others the challenges of a woman’s journey in a male-dominated business world. Reiner’s novel highlights, and fictionalizes, the ups and downs that she herself experienced.

Reviews

[C&D Editing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me want to visit Japan. You learn so much of what an elegant culture it is, steeped in tradition and manners. Ruth wrote about it in such a fun way with the protagonist making social faux pas at every turn. Like a how-to-not guide.

As for the protagonist, Sarah Green, her journey was filled with a lot of heartache and devotion. She was a really, really hardworking woman, living her dream in Japan. However, her life outside of work fell apart.

I loved the beginning chapter (I laughed out loud) and how it fell back into place later. I loved the relationships Sarah built and how she found acceptance in a country, a firm, and neighbors who were so different to her American ways. This book truly made me laugh so much, want to punch an individual character, and cry at so many heartbreaking scenes.

[Ana Hantt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much. It's fast-paced and has a conversationalist narrative. Sarah, the main character is funny and witty and I laughed out loud a couple of times. I could almost touch the love of the author for Japan through the pages. The Asian culture is very foreign for me, so it was great learning this much while reading the story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Haim & Carmit Geva · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I'd insist on accuracy I would recommend that the subtitle of the book should change from "A fun, spicy novel based in Japan" to "A fun, TIPSY novel based in Japan" as the references to alcohol/ism are plentiful - but I suppose, like many other aspects of this book, it's a cultural thing!

From the perspective of the (unapologetic) white, middle-aged male the book provides a hilarious, revealing and sometimes disturbing insight into two alien psyches: that of the Japanese culture and that of the woman...

The book is wondefully feminine, and dare I say, even feminist (in the classic sense, not the postmodern nutty kind).
The heroine is resourceful, smart, independent, ambitious woman. A successful career woman (albeit, boderline alcoholic :-)).
Without giving too much away, she makes it to the top in an alien, paternalistic, conservative culture and pays the price for it. However, the author's skillful navigation of these topics without decending into blunt, overt virtue signaling, ensures that our heroine remains human, and therefore - relateable.

I believe it was Friedrich Nietzsche, in "The Gay Science" who said you should live your life as if you'll need to endure each moment eternally. This arguably resonates with the Epicurean principle of avoiding pain and pursuing pleasure.
From this perspective - it's an Epicurean book, which is intended as a pretty high form of compliment.

[Sindhu S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although ‘The Singing Widow of a Buddhist Priest’ is Ruth Reiner’s first novel, it is well-written, probably because Reiner has a lot of Japan-related experiences.
She spent a year there with the Japanese Shinto community in Kyoto. She also holds a Japan-focused MBA from the University of Hawaii and The Japan-American Institute of Management Science, based on which she negotiated business interests between Japanese and non-Japanese firms.
The book is about the friendship between the main protagonist, an American woman Sarah, and the widow referred to in the title. It is quite interesting because it resembles a memoir and a travelogue. It shows Reiner’s love and interest in Japan—the country as experienced by a foreigner.
It is also a second chance story: Sarah makes mistakes like all human beings but bounces back from their consequences, with the help of many people.
So, what makes it special? She makes these mistakes when she is in another country and the kind and generous colleagues/acquaintances/strangers who help her become her friends and relatives.
If you want to read a feel-good book, this would be a great choice. It presents life with a tinge of humour and a dash of hope.

Note:
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.

[Marcia Vida · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Japan is the most intoxicating place for me. The Japanese culture fascinates me: the food, the dress, the manners and the traditions. It’s the travel experience that has moved me the most.” (Roman Coppola)

Nipon, also known as "the country of the rising sun," is a beautiful and distinctive place that blends modern and traditional scenarios. This book vividly portrays Japan, leaving me with a solid interest in visiting in person.

The story follows Sarah Green, whose fate led her to live in Japan. Her fascination with the country began after watching "Hiroshima Mon Amour." Her teacher's advice about "not forgetting her role" stuck with her.

A travel opportunity presented itself in 1998, and she landed at Kansai Airport, where Mr. Katana awaited to take her to Hiroshima. Initially, Sarah felt disoriented and jet-lagged, but she soon adjusted to her new surroundings. However, her immersion in the culture revealed that she was missing something.

The book is a brilliant and engaging read that offers numerous insights into the challenges and rewards of adapting to a new culture. It encourages readers to reflect on the importance of change, self-discovery, and pursuing one's dreams. Overall, it's a must-read and worth a try.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Narelle Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the opening chapter this author had my attention - I laughed out loud much to my husband's curiosity. The central character, Sarah, is such an interesting person with very real emotions - immediately you are intrigued by where the story is going to go. The details of Japanese life are extremely engaging - having visited there last year - I felt like I was back there experiencing the culture, soaking up the atmosphere. Ruth Reiner is very knowledgeable about Japan and her attention to detail oozes through the pages with both love and respect for this nation. It really is a charming story that I was sorry to reach the end of as I wasn't ready to return home to my real world. Take the opportunity to read this book - you won't be disappointed. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Katheyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Singing Widow of a Buddhist Priest” by Ruth Reiner is an interesting mix of biographic elements and fiction, that relates the impressions of a woman during her stance in Japan from a gaijin point of view. The book is somehow reminiscence of a travel journal/diary, and relates the vicissitudes on Sarah Green, an American citizen who has been living in Japan for the last four years, who relates her interaction with the country in thirty-six connected chapters. An interesting view of Japan through an individual’s interaction with the country. Anyone who has ever come in contact with Japan, will recognize the settings, even as personal views can differ, it’s an interesting book that would appeal – for various reasons – to Japanophiles and exotic fans alike.

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a very positive surprise, it made me think about my origins and values and how three very distinct cultures have taken their share in forming myself as a person. It´s really shocking how the oriental and occidental cultures clash but how they can be complementary and provided you can adapt you can have the best of both sides. This is a story about friendship, trust, love, respect (for people, earth, life...), but above all is a story that shows that we should never jump to conclusions without all facts and that the feeling of belonging does not necessarily come with blood ties. Beautifully written, this story touched my heart. Hope we´ll have another book by this author to be read soon!
I downloaded a free copy of this book through BookSirens and this is my honest review.

[Riki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! It's so unique to read a chick lit that is set in Japan. The journey and relationships of the heroine with the people around her, her husband, family, and especially the culture, is intriguing and well written. The element of romance in the book won my heart. The book has the perfect combination of drama and humor (I found myself laughing out loud several times). Highly recommended!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Unique Cultural Experience

This is the book I needed to read today. I firmly believe that some books find you when you need them the most. The cultural faux pas made me laugh out loud, scaring my dogs multiple times. But unexpectedly, Sarah's personal losses made me weep. Add to that the best romance I've read in a very long time and you have a book no one should miss. I will be giving this book as gifts to friends...high praise indeed.

[Ella Mizrachi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read 💜

I read The Singing Widow of a Buddhist Priest and could not put it down. Though the novel is full of humor it also shows the true struggle of a woman and foreigner to make it in Japan. Ruth Reiner's writing is colorful and detailed and brings to life the look and feel of Japan in a very special way. I especially recommend the book for all Japan lovers.

[Claire Ruder · Rating 5 out of 5]

nostalgia and smiles

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I did live in Japan for three years so much was familiar to me, but ms. Reiner’s use of humor and colourful character descriptions made this book a treasure for me!

[MISS ROCHELLE · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favourite book of the year
Learnt so much about Japan whilst enjoying the story

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

My son has taught English in Japan for the past 10 years, so I was excited to read "Japan Forever After". The story and descriptions of Japan and it culture didn't disappoint. Sarah had many life experiences while in Japan. Many were challenging and even sad, but the most endearing were between Sarah and the Buddhist priest's widow. Japan Forever After gives great insight into life in Japan, including its customs and culture. I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.

[Jeanne Chepko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book, couldn’t put it down. Fabulous description of Japan and the traditions of the people.

Sarah thinks she had it all figured out, a career in Japan, a soulmate husband and a routine.

But, will Japanese spirit go her way or will she need to learn their ways.

Wonderful descriptions, great interactions and insights into a traditional way of life.

Page turner, worth every minute.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions in this review are my own.

[DC Palter · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of an American woman in Tokyo. The first half is mostly about the deteriorating relationship with her husband who accompanies her to Japan where she works as a corporate executive. The second half is about finding herself and what she really wants in life. Very much written from a woman's perspective, focused more on romance and love lives than the Japanese work environment.

I received an advance review copy for free.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story begins with Sarah introducing herself while seemingly traveling on a plane with her boss, Mr Kobayashi. They experience some turbulence where Sarah feels like the plane will crash. In her extreme distress she loudly announces that she wants to have a baby.

Through first person narration the story unfolds as Sarah describes the past events of her life. Sarah Green is a 37 year old woman who has always had a fascination with Japan, the people and culture. She grew up in New Jersey living a typical Jewish American childhood. While her best friend Naomi becomes a fire fighter, Sarah works endlessly to achieve the higher education necessary to be successful. Her goal has always been to move to Japan remembering the advice of her Rabi Eli, “Don’t forget your role”.

Finally, Sarah receives a job offer as the first woman executive at a firm in Japan. She had her first experience working in Japan was in 1998 when her current employer sent her to work in Hiroshima for a few months. There are many references with explanations of typical Japanese traditions which are not commonly known to Americans. As Sarah learns to adjust to Japanese culture and traditions, there are many embarrassing but laughable moments due to her misunderstanding.

I got lost in some of the story as I didn’t sense a main plot of where or what direction the novel would go. It didn’t come together until about half way through when Sarah’s trips to Japan became more frequent and she decided to move there. Meeting and marrying Ben had never been part of her long term plan. Fortunately, she convinces him to move with her to Japan for this unique executive level opportunity. It had been her dream and being a writer Ben decides it just might work.

Married life in Japan becomes more than either of them anticipated. Ben becomes lonely and depressed because Sarah works full-time and is barely home with all the mandatory business travel. Even when Ben’s parents come to visit, there is an obvious strain between the couple.

Life becomes more complex with their relationship with accusations of infidelity and abandonment. I found the references and explanations of the Japanese culture interesting. I felt the story needed more structure and a clear objective from the beginning of the book. I only continued as I had committed to writing a review and I often don’t abandon books in hopes of finding something in the end. This book was like that in I started with one thought and as I read got confused as to the book’s purpose. The meaning becomes clearer at the end but I fear most people might abandon it before they finish.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and BookSirens. This voluntary review is my honest unbiased opinion.