It’s been four years since my last book came out and I’d forgotten how hectic things get in the lead up. We’re a month away from the official publication and weeks away from the first event, and it’s all go here!
Above is the delightful quote which Christopher Harding, author of Japan Story: In Search of a Nation was kind enough to give. He’s appearing as part of the Aye Write festival in Glasgow (as am I). He’s in conversation with J. David Simons on March 28th, get along if you can.
The first review of The Only Gaijin in the Village has appeared thanks to Ian Josh Yates on Goodreads. He says:
“Not a travel book, but a found a new home in a world of adventure book, episodic in nature and design, but with enough of a through line and good use of seasons of the year and life to create a singular vision.
I love this genre and appreciate every time an experienced writer puts one out.
Putting this above many other “life in Japan” stories is Maloney’s insight, more than just initial reactions to the new and absurd or interesting, but at times past that to some real looks at what it means to leave a home and family, and what it means to find, or try to find your new home and family.
I’ll also say, if Hemingway makes me want wine and Booth makes me want a roadside beer, then Maloney makes me want a fire in my yard and enough space to enjoy it. Maybe I need to escape the city myself.
Hope a lot of people pick this one up and give it a chance!
Which is lovely of him.
The interviews have begun which has been something of a problem given I’ve had laryngitis for two weeks and sound slightly croakier than a heavy-smoking frog. I did a Q&A with the good people at the Blue Pencil Agency which you can read here.
Hopefully my voice will be back to its best by the time the events kick off. I’m reliably informed that the Sydney launch is changing from February 22nd to the 23rd, but I’m waiting for final confirmation so if you were planning on coming to that from out of town, hold off booking train tickets etc. for a couple of days.
The first Japanese reading has been confirmed, on April 28th at Bar Iznt in Kobe, as part of the Author’s Live series. Link as soon as I get one. Keep an eye on the sidebar for a full list of events, and if you want me to come to a town near you, get in touch. Have public transport, will travel.
Iain Maloney 