The Story

This is Shigemi Shiukichi's own story of his childhood in late 19th-century Japan. He was born in 1865, just as the old shogunate was collapsing. The book follows his life through the Meiji Restoration, a period where Japan changed almost overnight. We see his early education, family life, and the confusing clash of traditions—like samurai culture—with new, Western ideas flooding into the country. It's a firsthand account of a boy trying to make sense of a world in fast-forward.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book special is its perspective. History books tell you about treaties and emperors. This book shows you what those changes smelled like, tasted like, and felt like for an ordinary kid. Shiukichi doesn't preach; he just remembers. You feel his confusion, his curiosity, and sometimes his sadness as the familiar parts of his world fade away. It's a powerful reminder that 'progress' isn't just an idea—it's something people live through, with all its personal costs and wonders.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves personal histories or is curious about Japan beyond the usual samurai tales. If you enjoyed books like 'The Diary of a Young Girl' for its intimate voice or are fascinated by how cultures change, you'll connect with this. It’s a quiet, thoughtful read that offers a window into a pivotal moment, not from a palace or a battlefield, but from a child's home and schoolyard.