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Pure Invention
How Japan Made the Modern World
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Check link for latest rating. ( 3,120 ratings, 405 reviews)
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
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See moreThe history of Japan's unprecedented takeover of the global imaginary, as told through the eight packaged fantasies that charmed and changed the world most thoroughly from Hello Kitty and the Karaoke machine to the novels of Haruki Murakami.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
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Description
Pure Invention by Matt Alt takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the rise of Japanese culture and its unprecedented impact on the world. Through compelling narrative and meticulous research, Alt explores how an array of Japanese creations—from the humble Walkman to the revolutionary Nintendo Entertainment System—reshaped global society.
As Alt delves into the heart of Japan's influence, he unveils the captivating backstories of iconic innovations like karaoke, emoji, and Pac-Man. These cultural phenomena were not just entertainment staples; they were transformative tools that subtly yet profoundly altered our methods of communication, leisure, and even the way we perceive reality.
In the 1970s and '80s, Japan seemed like a nation from the future, propelled by the technological prowess of giants like Sony and Toyota. However, the economic bubble burst in the '90s led to what is now known as the 'lost decades.' Instead of declining into obscurity, Japan's cultural influence only intensified during this period. Characters like Pikachu and multimedia franchises such as Dragon Ball Z not only captivated audiences but also provided new avenues for creative expression and emotional engagement during challenging times.
Matt Alt brings to life the stories of the creative minds and eccentric visionaries who drove this cultural revolution. From gaming and texting to singing and dreaming, the world's interaction with Japanese pop culture has been profound, shaping our societies in ways both wondrous and unexpected.
Amazingly well researched, fabulously informative and an awful lot of fun. If you love Japanese culture or are just curious to know more I can't recommend this book highly enough - Jonathan Ross
'A nerd- and generalist-friendly look at how Japan shaped the post-World War II world, from toys to Trump . . . A non-native's savvy study of Japan's wide influence in ways both subtle and profound' - Kirkus
Ultimately, Pure Invention reveals how Japanese ingenuity has not only entertained us but has reinvented modern life as we know it. In a world captivated by these fantastical creations, Alt suggests it's indeed Japan's world, and we're all just living in it, gaming, texting, and dreaming our way through a uniquely transformed global culture.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Pure Invention by Matt Alt is praised for its in-depth research and engaging narrative, offering a fascinating look at Japan's influence on global culture and technology. Reviewers highlight its appeal to both enthusiasts of Japanese culture and curious readers, noting its originality and insightful connections often overlooked in other accounts. It is described as exuberant, joyful, and highly recommended.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781472131850
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 08 July 2021
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Constable
Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 26.0mm
Width: 126.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 289g
Pages: 368
About the Author
Matthew Alt is a writer, translator and reporter. He is the author of several illustrated books about Japan. His writing has appeared in the New Yorker, Wired, Slate, the Independent and the Japan Times. He is the co-host of the TV show Japanology Plus on NHK World. He lives in Japan.
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