The story follows Mitsuko, a single mother who lives a quiet double life:
Every Friday, she works as a hostess at an upscale bar to afford special schooling for her deaf-mute son, Tarô.
is the second novel in Aki Shimazaki's pentalogy La sombra del cardo (The Shadow of the Thistle). It is a delicate exploration of motherhood, Japanese societal expectations, and the weight of family secrets. Summary & Narrative Structure Hozuki, La Libreria De Mitsuko Aki Shimazaki epub
You can find digital and physical editions of the book through several retailers:
The "ground cherry" or "winter cherry" has multiple meanings. Historically in Japan, it was used to induce abortion. In the novel, it also represents "lies" or "deception," mirroring Mitsuko’s hidden life. The story follows Mitsuko, a single mother who
Shimazaki often explores topics that Japanese society finds "inconvenient," such as the struggles of single mothers, disability, and the lingering effects of historical trauma.
Editions of Hôzuki, la librería de Mitsuko by Aki Shimazaki Summary & Narrative Structure You can find digital
Shimazaki, a Japanese-born author who writes in French, uses this "outsider" language to achieve a clarity and precision that allows her to dissect Japanese culture more objectively. EPUB & Purchasing Information