43 pages 1 hour read

Masuji Ibuse

Black Rain

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1965

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Black Rain by Masuji Ibuse follows Shigematsu Shizuma, who documents his and his family's experiences in the aftermath of the Hiroshima atomic bombing. As Shigematsu, his wife Shigeko, and niece Yasuko navigate life with radiation sickness, he transcribes journals to prove Yasuko's health for marriage prospects. The novel interweaves survival struggles and their emotional and physical toll. The book contains graphic depictions of war-related violence and suffering.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Black Rain by Masuji Ibuse is widely praised for its poignant and haunting depiction of post-atomic bomb Hiroshima, showcasing extraordinary depth in its portrayal of human suffering and resilience. Critics commend Ibuse's evocative prose and meticulous historical accuracy. However, some find the narrative pacing slow and the structure fragmented. Overall, it is a powerful, albeit somber, exploration of tragedy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Black Rain?

Readers captivated by the poignant exploration of human resilience in the face of catastrophe would appreciate Masuji Ibuse's Black Rain. This novel resonates with enthusiasts of John Hersey's Hiroshima and Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the Day, blending historical depth with a nuanced portrayal of post-war trauma.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Japanese Literature

Classic Fiction

Topics

Military / War

History: Asian

History: U.S.

Period

WWII / World War II

Asian Literature

Themes

Society: War

Values/Ideas: Science & Technology