A Japanese Boy

A Japanese Boy by Shigemi Shiukichi is a vivid autobiographical account that offers Western readers an intimate look into traditional Japanese life, education, and values through the eyes of a young boy. Written during a period of cultural transition, this classic memoir bridges Japanese culture and Western understanding with clarity, warmth, and authenticity.

Through personal anecdotes and everyday experiences, the author describes family life, schooling, customs, and social traditions in Japan, revealing how moral education, discipline, and respect shaped childhood. The book provides rare insight into Meiji-era Japan, a time when the country was balancing ancient traditions with modern influences.

More than a personal story, A Japanese Boy serves as an important work of cultural history and cross-cultural literature, helping readers understand Japanese society from an insider’s perspective. Its accessible narrative makes it especially valuable for students, educators, and general readers interested in Asian history, Japanese studies, and childhood memoirs.

This book is ideal for readers interested in:

Japanese culture and traditions

Memoirs and childhood autobiographies

Meiji-era Japan

Cross-cultural and East Asian studies

Social history of Japan

Clear, engaging, and culturally rich, A Japanese Boy remains a timeless introduction to everyday life in historical Japan and an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese society and identity.