BOOK BRIEF

Goodbye Tsugumi

Banana Yoshimoto
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Goodbye Tsugumi

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2002

Book Brief

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Banana Yoshimoto

Goodbye Tsugumi

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2002
Book Details
Pages

186

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Japanese Literature

Modern Classic Fiction
Period
Asian Literature
Setting

Japanese Seaside Town • 1980s

Publication Year

2002

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

Lexile Level

1020L

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Super Short Summary

In Goodbye Tsugumi by Banana Yoshimoto, a young woman named Maria reminisces about a summer spent with her cousin Tsugumi at a seaside inn. The story explores themes of family, friendship, and the complexities of living with a spirited and fragile person, set against the backdrop of impending change.

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

14,822 ratings

63%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Banana Yoshimoto's Goodbye Tsugumi is praised for its lyrical prose and exploration of friendship and coming of age. The novel's atmospheric setting and emotional depth resonate with readers, though some find the plot meandering and the pacing slow. Tsugumi's complex personality intrigues but may alienate some due to her abrasive nature. Overall, the novel offers a poignant, character-driven narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Goodbye Tsugumi?

A reader who enjoys Goodbye Tsugumi by Banana Yoshimoto likely appreciates introspective, character-driven narratives with themes of friendship and personal growth. Fans of Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami or The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa might find similar emotional resonance and a contemplative style.

4.0

14,822 ratings

63%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

186

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Japanese Literature

Modern Classic Fiction
Period
Asian Literature
Setting

Japanese Seaside Town • 1980s

Publication Year

2002

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

Lexile Level

1020L

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