A unique historical fiction debut.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 464

First published: 2021

Original language: English

The plot: Eight year old Nori is the illegitimate daughter of a mixed race relationship between a Japanese woman and a black American GI. Abandoned by her mother, she is taken in by her wealthy grandparents, and hidden away, to hide the shame of her existence and prevent the inevitable stain on the family’s reputation. At an isolated home in the Japanese countryside, Nori is subjected to a life of unspeakable cruelty, forced to sleep in the attic and take chemical baths to lighten her skin. A chance meeting with her older half brother, Akira, leads to a lifelong friendship that allows Nori to become the woman she was destined to be, spanning decades, continents and hard decisions.

What did I think of this book?

It was great. Debut novels, when done well, are something really special – works that you can hardly believe have come from the mind of a new author. Fifty Words For Rain is one such novel. I could barely believe that such a stirring portrait of post World War II Japan, so rich in detail and custom, came from the pen of a black American writer.

With shades of Jane Eyre and Memoirs of a Geisha, there is much to enjoy here. It’s a little slow in places, but other than that I found little fault with this atmospheric, powerful novel.

What was most interesting about this book?

I loved the relationship between Nori and Akira, which is a slow burner and develops gradually over the course of the novel. Each graduates slowly from annoying sibling, to wise counsel, guide, and friend. The climax of the novel, in which Nori returns from a lengthy sojourn in England to take her rightful place as head of the family in Japan, ending her engagement to her English lover – was surprising. After all the family had put her through, I wasn’t expecting Nori to lean into them in the way she does. For many readers (myself included) it is a disappointing ending, but the intention is clear: for Nori to change the family from within, she must right the wrongs of the past by taking her place at its head. She must create change by embracing the family, not by abandoning them.

What am I going to take away from this book?

The world of post war Japan is one I knew little about before beginning this book, and it was enlightening to learn so much about the customs and culture of this fascinating and beautiful country. I found myself too, keen to learn about the inspiration behind this novel. I learnt that not only is the author an amateur linguist, but that the somewhat cryptic title comes from a Japanese saying. It rains so often in Japan that there are 50 words for rain. This is a metaphor for the many obstacles that Nori experiences (and overcomes) in the novel.

Will I enjoy this book?

This is a beautiful book, with eloquent language, relatable characters and relationships, and gorgeous prose. If you’re a fan of historical fiction (as I am), you’ll love it.

Rating : 4/5