Seventeen

1985. Kazumasa Yuuki, a seasoned reporter at the North Kanto Times, is caught in the web of power struggles and office politics that plague its newsroom. His daily routine is disrupted when an air disaster of unprecedented scale occurs right within the paper's local coverage area. As the newsroom grapples with the unimaginable horror and chaos, Yuuki and his colleagues unite, driven by the quest for a once-in-a-lifetime scoop. The harrowing week that follows is filled with intense adrenaline and emotional turmoil, fundamentally altering their lives and careers.

2002. Seventeen years on, Yuuki reflects on the events of that fateful week, their lasting impact, and the unfulfilled promise he made during those turbulent days. This promise is not just a personal commitment but is also intertwined with the final unsolved mystery of the disaster, representing Yuuki's ultimate, unconquered fear.

Seventeen by Hideo Yokoyama is a masterfully crafted novel that transcends genres, combining the thrill of investigative journalism with profound emotional depth. It meticulously captures the intricacies of modern Japanese society through the lens of a gripping narrative. This story is as much about human resilience and the quest for truth as it is about the tragic consequences of the disaster.

"He's a master," raves the New York Times Book Review.

William Ryan lauds the book, stating, "Seventeen is a brilliant novel on any level - it's a gripping page-turner, while remaining moving and complex. It's a deeply satisfying read and it will be a while before I read anything as good."

The Guardian praises it as "an astringent, unforgiving picture of modern Japanese society."

With Seventeen, Hideo Yokoyama delivers a compelling story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, deeply immersed in the emotional and psychological landscapes of its characters.