Inspired Shapes: Contemporary Designs for Japan’s Ancient Crafts
by Ori Koyama with photographs by Mizuho Kuwata, translated by Charles Whipple (Kodansha International, ¥3,800)

Either you have just begun your courtship with Japanese arts and crafts, or you have long enjoyed the exquisite beauty of Japanese lacquerware, ceramics or textiles. Either way, Inspired Shapes is one of most exquisite coffee table books you will find on the subject of Japan, its craft and the artisans who so modestly tend their designs.

Author and interior specialist Ori Koyama has created a book that will satisfy both the connoisseur and the curious. She has avoided the usual explanations of traditional craft techniques—the kind that produces museum-like fatigue—opting instead for words and photos bursting with contemporary freshness. Koyama highlights over fifty artisans who “keep their crafts compatible with modern lifestyles and contemporary aesthetics” and features “fresh takes” on items such as the sake set, stacked food box, washi lantern, calligraphy brush and folded screen.

As the title suggests, this book has a wonderful premise, “to look forwards and backwards” at the same time. It highlights the very best modern Japanese design has to offer, and the photographs are magnificent. Trina O’Hara-Thawley

How to Tell the Difference Between Japanese Particles
by Naoko Chino (Kodansha International, ¥2,310)

When studying Japanese
grammar, nothing causes more fear than the word “particle.” The was, wos, nos and nis that litter Japanese sentences are hurdles that we students stumble haplessly over, often forcing us to retire from the challenge with injured pride. To lessen the pain, Naoko Chino has come up with a new approach to particles.

Chino, who has written a series of detailed books about studying Japanese, suggests that, “instead of studying similar particles independently and without reference to one another, students can now see particles with similar functions arranged together so that they can be easily compared.” This is a refreshing change from most methodical Japanese grammar texts, and is even a departure from the format of her other books, such as All About Verbs and All About Particles, both of which are more like reference books than study guides.

The exercise section, in particular, helps students identify their weak areas and address them. Each question is tied to a specific section in the chapter, making it easy for students to quickly review their mistakes. Such a user friendly approach is perfect for home-study.

However, beginners beware. Some example sentences are over-complicated and the English explanations confusing for students just starting out. Even though the book has sentences written in both Japanese and Roman letters, the beginner will have to learn some intermediate vocabulary and sentence structures to understand the particle comparisons the book presents. For intermediate students, though, this will be a great resource. The rest, of course, is up to you. Jean Woodward

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