Hey readers, this one’s written by a Brio client to start and is a tale centered on one’s chosen family. Inspired by his own family history, author Alan Lessik spins a tale of a Japanese gay man in the early 20th century in Make the Dark Shine: A Zen Novel.
We meet Kenzo Uchida In 1919, as he and his partner Mitsu arrive in Constantinople to open the new Japanese Consulate. Forced to hide their relationship, the duo befriends Elisa, a feisty Ukrainian cigarette girl. The unlikely trio begin an adventure in the decadence of post-war Paris. In the years that follow, Kenzo faces change, love and loss while the geo-political climate builds to its inevitable climax.
Once back in Japan, Kenzo discovers Zen Buddhism which he becomes a devout student of. Through meditation he attempts to make peace with his choices and the ramifications of same.
History and romance are woven together in this sweeping journey spanning the years between the two great wars. On the eve of WWII, he discovers that he has a daughter living with Elisa in New York. He leaves the monastery on a perilous mission to promote peace with a secret plan to reunite with his daughter Nina.
Family dynamics, both by choice and by bloodline, are central to the narrative, underscoring the interconnectedness of life. Make the Dark Shine: A Zen Novel is a love letter from a father to the daughter he never met.
Has this piqued your interest? Reply to this message to secure a copy! We’ll be meeting on Tuesday, June 25th to discuss and the author will be joining! To work with his schedule this Book Club session will be held at 12:00 noon Pacific.
We look forward to reading with you again!
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