The Paper Door and Other Stories by Shiga Naoya

No modern Japanese writer was more idolized than Shiga Naoya. "The Paper Door and Other Stories" showcases the concise, delicate art of this writer who is often called "the god of the Japanese short story." Doyen of Japanese letters Donald Keene ranks some of Shigas stories "among the most brilliant achievements in this genre by any twentieth-century Japanese writer." Shigas unique style is concise and simple, with no unnecessary words. With the subtlest of gestures, he evokes the fullness of experience.
Lane Dunlops masterly translation of seventeen of Shigas finest stories has provided English readers their first overview of the authors work. Now back in print, the book is augmented by Donald Keenes new preface contextualizing Shigas awesome literary gifts. Dunlop has chosen stories that aptly represent Shigas range and virtuosity. With selections spanning forty years, from the fable-like "The Little Girl and the Rapeseed Flower" to the psychologically complex "A Gray Moon," this collection delineates the development of Shigas rare genius.