{"title":"Lesley Chan Downer","description":"\u003cp\u003eLesley Chan Downer is an acclaimed author and travel writer known for her captivating explorations of Japan's rich cultural tapestry. With a unique blend of adventure and historical insight, Downer's works offer readers an intimate glimpse into the fascinating landscapes and traditions of Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of her notable books, \u003cem\u003eOn the Narrow Road to the Deep North\u003c\/em\u003e, invites readers on a journey through the heart of Japan. This travelogue not only delves into the geographical wonders of the region but also the historical and cultural contexts that shape its identity. Downer's engaging storytelling style makes her works a delightful read for anyone interested in travel and adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLesley Chan Downer’s books are an essential addition to the collection of any avid reader and traveller eager to explore the depths of Japanese culture and the adventures that await off the beaten path.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"on-the-narrow-road-to-the-deep-north-by-lesley-chan-downer-9781780602301","title":"On the Narrow Road to the Deep North","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAfter eight years working in Japan, immersing herself in its language and literature, Lesley Chan Downer set off in the footsteps of Matsuo Basho, Japan's most cherished poet, to explore the country's remote northern provinces.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBasho's pilgrimage to find the landscapes that had inspired the great medieval poets gave birth to Japan's most famous travel book, rich in strange imagery and sometimes comic encounters along the road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this intriguing cross-threading of journeys, perceptions, and exquisite haiku, Lesley creates her own funny, loving, and honest portrayal of contemporary Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs she walks, she finds at one and the same time a drab post-industrial landscape of concrete and cable, but also a land still full of the old enchantments. Nights in thatched highland villages and sake-drenched poetry sessions encourage her to see for herself if any of the legendary hermit-priests still survive in the sacred mountains of the north.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'Downer has an instinctive insight into the way the Japanese think—a rare commodity which she uses with a marvellous delicacy of touch.' — Katie Hickman, \u003cem\u003eThe Literary Review\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Unknown","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47072349323500,"sku":"9781780602301","price":39.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/26809423482821.jpg?v=1765095592"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.co.nz\/collections\/lesley-chan-downer.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}