The Oxford Book of Japanese Short Stories : Part 5

Prize Stock by Oe Kenzaburo. Long, absorbing story about a Japanese village finding a black American airman during the war. It is from the the viewpoint of a child in the village who treats the man as a beloved pet. The adults are worse, having been told by the prefectural government to 'rear' the man (rather like livestock - hence the title). Oe is another Nobel laureate, and I think this story is lodged in my mind for good.

A Very Strange, Enchanted Boy by Tsushima Yuko. A story that tricks the reader into thinking the story is about a child, but by the end it is clear that it is about the boy's mother. Elegant, with a very good ending.

The Elephant Vanishes by Murakami Haruki. This is about an elephant vanishing. It is by Murakami - and therefore just brilliant.

Desert Dolphin by Shimada Masahiko. Evocative and very imaginative story about a fallen angel.

Dreaming of Kimchee by Yoshimoto Banana. The realisation of happiness - an unusual story, and a good one to end this generally excellent collection of stories. I enjoyed each one.