The best 40 Asian books

Tombstone is a groundbreaking account of the devastating consequences of China's Great Famine, which took place from 1958 to 1962. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, Yang Jisheng reveals the true scale of the tragedy, with an estimated 36 million people dying from starvation. This powerful book sheds light on a dark chapter in Chinese history and serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of political ideology.

"War Without Mercy" by John W. Dower explores the racial and cultural dimensions of the Pacific War during World War II. Through extensive research and analysis, the book examines how deeply ingrained racial stereotypes and prejudices influenced the conduct of the war and shaped the attitudes of both the Allied and Axis powers. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the brutal and unforgiving nature of war.

This book tells the captivating story of a young girl named Kim Phuc, who became known as the "Napalm Girl" after a photograph of her fleeing a napalm attack during the Vietnam War became iconic. Through interviews and research, Denise Chong delves into Kim's life before and after the photograph was taken, exploring the impact of war on individuals and the power of images to shape our understanding of history. It is a poignant and thought-provoking account of one girl's resilience and the far-reaching consequences of war.

The Latehomecomer is a memoir that tells the story of Kao Kalia Yang's family's journey from war-torn Laos to a refugee camp in Thailand, and eventually to their new home in the United States. Through vivid and heartfelt storytelling, Yang explores the challenges and triumphs of her Hmong community, shedding light on the immigrant experience and the search for a place to call home. It is a powerful and moving account of resilience, identity, and the bonds that hold families together.

Escape from Camp 14 is a gripping true story of Shin Dong-hyuk, the only person born in a North Korean political prison camp to have escaped. Blaine Harden takes us on a journey through Shin's unimaginable life in the camp, his daring escape, and his struggle to adapt to the outside world. This book sheds light on the brutal reality of life in North Korea and the indomitable human spirit.

Silk Roads offers a new perspective on world history by examining the interconnectedness of civilizations along the ancient trade routes. From the rise of the Persian Empire to the spread of the Black Death, Peter Frankopan uncovers the pivotal role of the Silk Roads in shaping the course of human events. This book challenges traditional Eurocentric narratives and highlights the importance of Asia and the Middle East in shaping the modern world.

Set during China's Cultural Revolution, this novel tells the story of two teenage boys who are sent to a remote mountain village for re-education. There, they discover a hidden stash of forbidden Western literature and embark on a journey of self-discovery and forbidden love with the village seamstress. It is a beautifully written tale of the power of literature and the resilience of the human spirit.

A Long Way Home is a memoir by Saroo Brierley that tells the incredible true story of his journey from being lost in India as a young child, to being adopted by an Australian family, and finally using Google Earth to track down his birth family. It is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and the power of love.

Chinese Cinderella is a memoir by Adeline Yen Mah that tells the story of her difficult childhood in China. Born the fifth child to an affluent family, Adeline is treated as an unwanted daughter and faces emotional and physical abuse from her stepmother. Despite the hardships, she finds solace in her love for literature and eventually overcomes adversity to achieve success. This poignant and inspiring book sheds light on the power of resilience and the importance of pursuing one's dreams.

A collection of essays and observations by a Japanese court lady in the 10th century. Filled with witty anecdotes, poetic musings, and insightful reflections on daily life, The Pillow Book offers a unique glimpse into the cultural and social landscape of ancient Japan. It is a captivating blend of personal diary and literary masterpiece.

The Bonesetter's Daughter by Amy Tan is a poignant novel that delves into the complex relationships between mothers and daughters. Set in both modern-day San Francisco and 1930s China, it tells the story of Ruth, who discovers her mother LuLing's hidden past and the deep family secrets that have shaped their lives. Tan weaves together themes of identity, tradition, and the power of storytelling in this beautifully written and emotionally gripping tale.

The Leavers by Lisa Ko is a powerful novel that delves into the complexities of immigration, identity, and belonging. It tells the story of a young boy named Deming Guo, whose mother disappears one day, leaving him to be adopted by a white American family. The book explores the impact of this separation on both mother and son, as well as the challenges they face in finding their places in the world.

The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo is a captivating novel set in 19th century Malaya. It tells the story of Li Lan, a young Chinese woman who is asked to become a ghost bride for a wealthy family's deceased son. As she delves into the eerie world of the afterlife, Li Lan uncovers dark secrets and must navigate between the realms of the living and the dead to protect herself and the ones she loves.

The Hundred Secret Senses is a captivating novel by Amy Tan that weaves together the lives of two sisters, Olivia and Kwan. Set in both present-day San Francisco and 19th-century China, the story delves into themes of family, identity, and the supernatural. With beautiful prose and a touch of magical realism, Tan explores the power of storytelling and the connections that transcend time and place.

The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea is a thought-provoking novel by Yukio Mishima that delves into themes of honor, betrayal, and the clash between individual desires and societal expectations. Set in post-war Japan, it tells the story of a young boy named Noboru and his mother, who becomes involved with a sailor named Ryuji. As the plot unfolds, the book explores the dark and complex motivations of its characters, ultimately leading to a shocking and unforgettable climax.

The Samurai's Garden by Gail Tsukiyama is a beautiful novel set in 1930s Japan. It tells the story of a young Chinese man named Stephen who travels to a small Japanese village to recover from tuberculosis. There, he meets a group of unforgettable characters and learns important life lessons about love, friendship, and the beauty of the natural world.

Confessions of a Mask is a powerful and introspective novel by Yukio Mishima. It delves into the inner thoughts and struggles of a young man as he grapples with his homosexuality and societal expectations in pre-World War II Japan. Through beautiful prose and raw honesty, Mishima explores themes of identity, desire, and the masks we wear to navigate the complexities of life.

The Street of a Thousand Blossoms is a beautifully written novel by Gail Tsukiyama that delves into the lives of two brothers, Hiroshi and Kenji, as they navigate the challenges of growing up in Tokyo during and after World War II. Set against the backdrop of a changing Japan, the book explores themes of family, love, and resilience, while offering a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage.

Out by Natsuo Kirino is a gripping and darkly compelling thriller that delves into the lives of four women who become entangled in a murder and its cover-up. Set in Tokyo, the novel explores themes of female empowerment, societal expectations, and the consequences of desperate choices. With its intense plot and complex characters, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Kitchen God's Wife is a captivating novel by Amy Tan that delves into the complex relationships between mothers and daughters. Set in both pre-revolutionary China and 1980s San Francisco, the book tells the story of a Chinese-American woman who uncovers her mother's painful past. Filled with rich cultural details and emotional depth, it explores themes of identity, family secrets, and the power of storytelling.

South of the Border, West of the Sun is a novel by Haruki Murakami that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the choices we make. It follows the life of Hajime, a successful businessman who is reunited with a childhood friend, Shimamoto. As they rekindle their friendship, Hajime is forced to confront the consequences of his past actions and the unfulfilled desires of his heart.

'Where the Mountain Meets the Moon' by Grace Lin is a captivating children's novel that weaves together folklore and fantasy. Join a young girl named Minli on her quest to seek the mysterious Old Man of the Moon and change her family's fortune. Filled with adventure, magic, and beautiful storytelling, this book is a must-read for readers of all ages.

Falling Leaves is a memoir by Adeline Yen Mah that delves into her tumultuous childhood and the emotional abuse she endured at the hands of her stepmother. Set in China during the mid-20th century, the book explores themes of family, resilience, and the power of education in overcoming adversity. It offers a poignant reflection on the author's journey towards independence and self-discovery.

Memoirs of a Geisha is a captivating novel that delves into the hidden world of 1930s Kyoto, Japan. Written by Arthur Golden, it tells the story of a young girl named Chiyo who is sold into the life of a geisha. From her training to her eventual rise as one of the most renowned geishas of her time, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into the customs, traditions, and sacrifices of the geisha culture.

Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World is a mind-bending novel by Haruki Murakami that delves into the realms of consciousness and identity. Set in parallel worlds, it follows a data processor who finds himself caught in a sinister plot, and a man who enters a strange, isolated town where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. With its unique blend of mystery, science fiction, and philosophical exploration, this book will leave you questioning the nature of existence.

A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry is a poignant tale set in 1970s India. It follows the lives of four characters from different backgrounds who come together and form an unlikely bond. As they navigate through political turmoil, social injustice, and personal tragedies, the book explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the delicate balance between hope and despair.

No Longer Human is a novel by Osamu Dazai that delves into the dark and introspective journey of a young man named Yozo. Through a series of confessional notes, Yozo reveals his struggles with fitting into society, his feelings of alienation, and his descent into self-destructive behavior. The book offers a raw and unflinching exploration of the human condition and the search for identity.

Please Look After Mom by Kyung-Sook Shin is a poignant novel that delves into the complexities of family relationships and the sacrifices made by a mother for her children. When an elderly woman goes missing in a crowded Seoul subway station, her family is forced to confront their own feelings of guilt and regret as they search for her. Through beautiful prose and multiple perspectives, the book explores themes of love, loss, and the importance of cherishing those closest to us.

South of the Border, West of the Sun is a captivating novel by Haruki Murakami that delves into the complexities of love, longing, and the choices we make. Set in Japan, it follows the life of Hajime, a man who is reunited with a childhood friend, Shimamoto, and is forced to confront the consequences of decisions made in the past. With Murakami's trademark lyrical prose and thought-provoking storytelling, this book explores the elusive nature of happiness and the power of our deepest desires.

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri is a poignant novel that delves into the complexities of identity, family, and belonging. Through the life of Gogol Ganguli, the book explores the challenges faced by first-generation immigrants in America and the impact of cultural heritage on one's sense of self. With beautifully crafted prose, Lahiri skillfully examines the universal themes of love, loss, and the search for one's own place in the world.

The Vegetarian by Han Kang is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the consequences of one woman's decision to stop eating meat. Set in South Korea, it explores themes of identity, control, and rebellion against societal expectations. The book offers a unique and haunting perspective on the power of choice and the ripple effects it can have on one's life.

The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga is a compelling novel that delves into the dark underbelly of India's class and caste system. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Balram Halwai, the book offers a thought-provoking commentary on the harsh realities faced by those at the bottom of the social hierarchy, while also exploring themes of ambition, corruption, and the desire for freedom.

The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami is a mesmerizing blend of surrealism, mystery, and historical fiction. Set in Tokyo, the novel follows the protagonist, Toru Okada, as he embarks on a quest to find his missing wife and uncovers a world of strange characters and enigmatic events. With its intricate storytelling and thought-provoking themes, this book takes readers on a captivating and unforgettable journey.

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford is a poignant novel that delves into the complexities of love, friendship, and family during a tumultuous time in history. Set in Seattle during World War II, the story follows the unlikely bond between a Chinese-American boy and a Japanese-American girl, as they navigate the racial tensions and internment of Japanese citizens. Through beautiful prose and heartfelt storytelling, the book explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the enduring power of love.

Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri is a compelling collection of short stories that delves into the lives of Indian characters and the complexities of their relationships. With exquisite prose, Lahiri explores themes of love, loss, and cultural identity, offering a poignant reflection on the human experience.

The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka is a poignant novel that tells the collective story of Japanese picture brides who immigrated to America in the early 1900s. Through beautiful prose, Otsuka explores their hopes, dreams, and challenges as they navigate a new country and culture. The book offers a powerful meditation on identity, belonging, and the universal human experience.

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan is a beautifully written novel that delves into the complex relationships between mother and daughter, and the intergenerational clash of cultures. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book explores themes of identity, family, and the immigrant experience, offering a deep and poignant portrayal of the bonds that tie us together.

The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen is a gripping novel that delves into the complexities of identity, loyalty, and betrayal. Set during the Vietnam War, it follows a communist spy who infiltrates the South Vietnamese army and eventually escapes to the United States. Through his unique perspective, the book offers a thought-provoking exploration of political and personal struggles.

A memoir that blends Chinese folklore, family history, and personal experiences to explore the complexities of being a woman in a traditional Chinese-American family. Through vivid storytelling, the author delves into themes of identity, cultural expectations, and the power of storytelling itself. It offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the challenges and triumphs of women in both Chinese and American societies.

The Woman in the Dunes is a thought-provoking novel by Kobo Abe that delves into themes of identity, isolation, and the struggle for freedom. Set in a remote village, it tells the story of a man who becomes trapped in a sand pit with a mysterious woman, forced to shovel sand to prevent being buried alive. As the days pass, the novel explores the complex relationship between the two characters and the existential questions it raises.