25

This collection is highly praised for its excellent selection of 20 contemporary Japanese writers, featuring a total of 25 short stories. Readers have expressed great admiration for the chosen works, finding the compilation to be of very high quality and thoroughly enjoyable. The diverse range of stories and authors provides a compelling insight into modern Japanese literature.

However, a significant criticism points to the translation quality. A decision was made to translate the majority of the stories from English rather than directly from the original Japanese, which, according to one reviewer, negatively impacted the overall quality of the edition. The translation is described as inconsistent, with several passages feeling poorly rendered or as if the work was rushed, detracting from the reading experience.

In conclusion, while the book excels in curating a fascinating and high-quality selection of contemporary Japanese short stories, its presentation is somewhat marred by translation issues. This collection would be particularly appealing to readers eager to explore modern Japanese literature and discover new authors, especially those who prioritize the breadth and quality of content over perfect linguistic fidelity in translation. It offers a valuable window into a rich literary landscape, despite its translational shortcomings.