Abstract

After abandoning my family after the earthquake, I return hometown after hearing of the death of my brother, and learn of the lamenting truth of his life.
A mystery debut from the author of the highly praised "I Live in Two Worlds."

Freelance writer Onodera Mamoru has never been back home since moving to Tokyo from Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture. His parents named him Mamoru because they wanted him to protect his mentally disabled brother, but he abandoned his hometown, his family, and his brother after the Great East Japan Earthquake. However, upon hearing that his brother had suddenly died, Mamoru decides to return to his hometown for the first time in seven years. His brother apparently committed suicide on the beach where they played together as children, but after hearing the story from his family and friends, Mamoru cannot believe it. As he pursues the mystery of his brother's death, he learns the truth behind his brother’s life. This mystery debut is written in a style filled with discrimination against people with disabilities and anger at poverty.

Author’s Information

Igarashi Dai
Born in Miyagi Prefecture in 1983. Grew up with a grandfather who was a former yakuza, a grandmother who was a religious believer, and deaf parents. His essay about his parents, "I Live in Two Worlds," was made into a movie starring Yoshizawa Ryo and became a hot topic. His main works include "Failed Family," "The Person Next Door Who Can't Hear," and "I'm Going to Ask My Deaf Mother." "An Ephyra Unable to Swin Out" is his debut novel.