Book cover of Hototogisu

Book description

Late 19th Century, Tokyo. Namiko, born as the daughter of an army lieutenant, loses her mother, and finds herself suffering at the hands of her new stepmother. Soon, her kindly aunt introduces her to Navy General Takeo Kawashima. Now Namiko lives happily ever after, or so she thought...

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Hototogisu as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Hototogisu (The Cuckoo)  is a Japanese novel by Kenjiro Tokutomi under the pen name Roka Tokutomi. It was initially published in serialized form between 1898 and 1899. My English copy, renamed “The Heart of Nami-san,” dates back to 1918.

I first became aware of the book when I was in Ikaho working on my Japanese hot spring series. One of the ryokans there had a small museum dedicated to the author. The story takes place over a century ago, but the interactions between a couple and their in-laws could take place not only in present-day Japan but almost…

If you love Hototogisu...

Ad

Book cover of Aggressor

Aggressor by FX Holden,

It is April 1st, 2038. Day 60 of China's blockade of the rebel island of Taiwan.

The US government has agreed to provide Taiwan with a weapons system so advanced that it can disrupt the balance of power in the region. But what pilot would be crazy enough to run…

Want books like Hototogisu?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Hototogisu.

Browse books like Hototogisu

Book cover of The Woman in the Dunes
Book cover of Zen in the Art of Archery
Book cover of The Floating World

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,277

readers submitted
so far, will you?

Ad

📚 If you like Hototogisu, you might also like...

Book cover of My Book Boyfriend

My Book Boyfriend by Kathy Strobos,

Lily loves her community garden. Rupert wants to bulldoze it. When feelings grow, will they blossom or turn to rubble?

"It literally had everything! - Bookworm Characters - Humor - Banter - Swoon-worthy lines."  - Book Reviewer.

Book cover of Everyday Medical Miracles: True Stories from the Frontlines in Women’s Health Care

Everyday Medical Miracles by Joseph S. Sanfilippo (editor),

Frontiers of Women from the healthcare perspective. A compilation of 60 true short stories written by an extensive array of healthcare providers, physicians, and advanced practice providers.

All designed to give you, the reader, a glimpse into the day-to-day activities of all of us who provide your health care. Come…

5 book lists we think you will like!