Le monde de Tokyobanhbao: Blog Mode gourmand

The books I read in 2023

Sun 24 Mar, 2024 · Art, Culture

Throughout the year 2023, I continued my journey through books. A few years ago, I couldn’t concentrate on more than a few pages of reading. It’s clear that gradually immersing myself in easy-to-read Japanese books was a catalyst for holding my attention longer, truly enjoying turning the pages, and diversifying my reading!

I had already compiled this reading list last year to catalog the novels I had read in 2022. I am once again engaging in this exercise. This year, I read less, with 18 books compared to 24 in 2022.

I don’t pressure myself about the number. The essential thing is to take pleasure in reading, and that was certainly the case for me!

READING IN ORIGINAL LANGUAGE

The novelty of 2023 for me is that I started reading quite a few books in English (Thanks, LN, for the push!). My English isn’t 100% fluent, and my language skills mainly come from high school, movies/series/pop songs. So, I’m delighted to have been able to attempt reading novels in English and to immerse myself in the story.

I found it to be a very good exercise to read in the original version to enrich my vocabulary (the dictionary is never far away in case of doubt) and to stay as close as possible to the author’s intention.

So here’s my ranking by categories, as last year. This post might give you some ideas and add to the number of books on your to-be-read pile. Feel free to share your opinion here if you’ve already read one or more of the novels mentioned; I’m curious to see if we have the same feelings about them.

MY FAVORITES

VIEILLE PEAU by FIONA SCHMIDT
My favorite of 2023, which should be read from a young age. This brilliant and funny essay by Fiona Schmidt explores ageism and explains how society subtly directs women at each phase of their lives, insidiously instilling a fear of aging. It’s not a guide on “aging well” or “how to stay young.” It goes much further, allowing for a serene look at who we are and who we will become.

ATTEINDRE L’AUBE by DIGLEE
A magnificent story by my friend Maureen, who had already dazzled with her pen in her previous work, Ressac, in 2021. Here, the book is just as intimate but with a different approach as it delves into the life of her great-aunt Georgie, a whimsical, passionate, and mysterious character, as well as into the lives of the women in her family. All of this helps to (re)define (among other things) her vision of coupledom and her life expectations. Subtle and moving.

DAISY JONES & THE SIX by TAYLOR JENKINS REID (Read in english)
This book was a gift from my childhood friend LN, convinced that I would enjoy this story. Bingo! I loved it! The story is structured as an interview with a fictional 70s musical group (inspired by Fleetwood Mac), which makes reading in English quite easy and fluid. The adapted television series and the album of songs are delightful additions to extend the pleasure. I even dedicated a special post to the novel/series/album on Instagram if you want more details.

THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO by TAYLOR JENKINS REID (Read in english)
Continuing from Daisy Jones & the Six, I wanted to explore more novels by Taylor Jenkins Reid and turned to this one. Once again, it’s about a fictional star, a 79-year-old actress, giving an interview to an unknown journalist Monique Grant. Through their exchanges, we explore the star’s past with her 7 husbands. Secrets and twists abound. I’m not surprised that the novel is once again being adapted into a feature film… To be continued!

THE BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS AND SNAKES (THE HUNGER GAMES) (Read in english)
My favorites seem to be novels that have been adapted into films or series! Here, the prequel to the Hunger Games saga, which I adore. I wanted to read the novel before going to the cinema, and I have no regrets about either the reading or the viewing (I discuss it in more detail here on Instagram). Perhaps I should have read it in French because the action scenes and war-related terms were quite difficult to understand in the language of Shakespeare, but I still loved discovering the youth of the villain President Snow on paper. The film adaptation is also one of my favorites of the year.

GOOD MOMENTS OF READING

The line between a favorite and a good reading moment is thin, but I had to make a choice to rank my different feelings.

THE ISLAND OF MISSING TREES by ELIF SHAFAK (Read in english)
My first book of the year read in 2023 and in English! A little adaptation time was needed to move fluidly through the pages, but once past that, I was captivated by this story of impossible love between a Greek and a Turk during the Cypriot War in the 1970s. A dual narrative (including that of a fig tree) that is subtle and rich in emotion, which will also appeal to nature lovers.

LOOK OUT FOR THE LITTLE GUY! by SCOTT LANG (Read in english)
Upon the release of the 3rd film in the Ant-Man saga: Quantumania (spoiler: it’s not at all up to par with the first 2 episodes), I learned about the parallel release of this book written by the main character of the film, Scott Lang (played by Paul Rudd). I found the idea brilliant since this book (actually written by Scott Lang!) appears at the beginning of the film. So I was curious to see what I could find in it and was not disappointed. The character’s tone is impeccably reproduced throughout the pages, describing all the adventures of the Avengers saga in a humorous and Ant-Man-specific way. However, it’s best reserved for Marvel and Ant-Man fans since this novel is extremely meta, but that’s what gives it its charm.

LESSON OF THE EVIL by YUSUKE KISHI
My first Japanese thriller: I appreciated being swept away by the chilling story of this high school teacher with two faces. It’s not perfect (as I mentioned here) but you easily get caught up in the intrigue and action (sometimes very unhealthy and violent, be warned).

KLARA AND THE SUN by KAZUO ISHIGURO
A book that questions the human relationship with new technologies, featuring Klara, an artificial intelligence robot adopted into a rather peculiar family. The atmosphere is particularly strange and cinematic, so much so that the novel will be adapted into a film soon.

THE WOMAN IN ME de BRITNEY SPEARS (Read in english)
You probably know of my particular fondness for Britney Spears since the early 2000s. So, I had to get her memoir. I was very happy to read it in English, to have a more raw and less cheesy transcription than in French. You’ve probably already read the essentials in the press, but reading it in full allowed me to better understand what poor Britney may have felt/endured during all those years of guardianship and overexploitation. (I discuss it in more detail here in this post) Her poignant testimony and reflections on misogyny in the music industry deserve to be read.

BREASTS AND EGGS by MIEKO KAWAKAMI
A very short book that observes three generations of Japanese women and their relationship with femininity. A concise and straightforward snapshot of Japanese society..

POÉTIQUE DU JAMBON-BEURRE by FRANCOIS SIMON
If you enjoy listening/watching the famous food critic François Simon’s chronicles on Instagram, you’ll love devouring his words in this book paying homage to the famous sandwich, pretext for an analysis of culinary trends and habits, ranging from Japanese cuisine to more local dishes. A gentle book that stimulates the senses, which I’ve already discussed here.

THE POWER OF NOW: A GUIDE TO SPIRITUAL ENLIGHTENMENT by ECKHART TOLLE
This wasn’t an easy read as it requires holding on before delving deeper into Eckhart Tolle’s explanations. There are things to take and leave in this book, but it deserves credit for providing me with some avenues of comfort during a complicated summer period.

THE GREAT PASSAGE by SHION MIURA
A novel that pays homage to words, cuisine, and the feeling of a job well done. The action takes place in the world of Japanese publishing, and it’s light reading.

THE BOOKS THAT I LIKED MODERATELY

THE LIBRARY OF SECRET DREAMS by MICHIKO AOYAMA
Although it was quite enjoyable to read, well-constructed, and some aspects reminded me of Ito Ogawa’s La papeterie Tsubaki (though not as good), I must admit that I’m a bit saturated with cozy Japanese novels overflowing with good feelings and feel the need to move away from the theme of bookstores, stationery, restaurants, or cats (very, very (too) common in Japanese “feel-good” novels).

THE KING OF GYOZAS by YOKO HIRAMATSU and JIRŌ TANIGUCHI
A book in the same vein as A Sandwich in Ginza (it’s the sequel). Text and parts in illustrated comics by the master Jirō Taniguchi, recounting the gourmet discoveries of regional dishes from Japan. The dishes described, mostly based on various types of meat, are sometimes a bit redundant and unappetizing.

THE BOOKS I DIDN’T LIKE

SNOW COUNTRY by YASUNARI KAWABATA
Perhaps too much praise had been given for me to fully appreciate it? The descriptions of landscapes are poetic, but I felt great annoyance towards the main male character, an aesthete, poet, but too passive and with an unappealing dated behavior (In his defense, the book was written in 1948). I found it impossible to project myself into the story and the romance mentioned without regularly rolling my eyes.

MALIBU RISING by TAYLOR JENKINS REID (Read in english)
The third book by Taylor Jenkins Reid that I read might have been one book too many! Once again, the same theme of fictional characters from a famous Californian family. A sort of spin-off of “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” since one of the characters from that book appears in Malibu Rising. Here, I felt little attachment to the members of this family whose fate changes during a “celebrity” party in Malibu. Surfing, the “fine sandy beach” ambiance failed to charm me.

PS : The photos in this article were taken during the “Mise en page” exhibition at Le Bon Marché by Sarah Andelman (formerly Mrs. Colette), dedicated to bookstores from around the world and the universe of books and publishing, all complemented by giant installations created by the artist Jean Jullien. (English translation by Quiterie)

My 2023 fashion review

Sat 27 Jan, 2024 · Fashion

This is the time for my fashion review (or shopping review) of my year 2023. It’s the 4th year I’ve been doing this exercise, listing everything I’ve bought (and received as gifts) in terms of clothing and accessories/jewelry during the past year. This allows me to assess my consumption but also to shop with mindfulness (as I note each purchase on my phone as it happens). Let’s see what 2023 brought into my wardrobe!

13 NEW ADDITIONS in 2023: 8 PURCHASES and 5 GIFTS

In comparison with previous years (2022: 9 acquisitions including 5 purchases, 2021: 13 acquisitions including 7 purchases, 2020: 8 acquisitions including 3 purchases), I remain consistent in my consumption, which remains fairly stable and reasonable. That said, I can’t claim that my 2023 acquisitions are 100% essential: there’s utility, comfort, unexpected favorites, but also a bit of disappointment in some things.

I will now describe these new additions in detail, starting with my purchases and finishing the list with the gifts received.

CONVERSE LEATHER SNEAKERS

Sneakers Chuck Taylor All Star Leather ox CONVERSE

Purchase date : May 2023

Why I bought them : To replace my old leather Converse, worn throughout all seasons for 10 loyal years, which were starting to wear and detach in several places (I still keep the old ones for concerts, festivals, on muddy and dusty grounds).

My daily use :I wear them year-round as leather Converse, in my opinion, are life! No worries about cleaning the canvas (I even have white leather ones); I can wear them like classic sneakers without fearing the weather.

However, I’m somewhat disappointed with the quality of my new Converse, as the lining at the heel is already tearing after only 8 months of use. The finishing quality is not the same as my 2013 pair, which is a shame. We’ll see how they hold up over time! Useful replacement acquisition but with mixed enthusiasm.

2 UNIQLO BUMBAGS

Bumbags UNIQLO

Dates of purchases : May 2023 (black one) and July 2023 (off white)

Why I bought them : For convenience when attending concerts (bumbags are life too!) and to have a large storage capacity in a small volume. I initially fell for the black model but later realized it would be nice to have a lighter one to match other outfits.

My daily use :These bumbags are magical—so much so that you see them everywhere, on everyone, but it doesn’t bother me because it has a fairly generic design. I find it easier and more often to wear in spring/summer than in winter, but for me, it’s an absolutely ideal accessory to keep my hands free during a concert or a stroll (without pulling on the shoulder!).

JAPANESE PYJAMAS

Pyjamas jinbei like bought at KIMONOYA PARIS (11 rue du Pont Louis-Philippe PARIS 4)

Date of purchase: September 2023

Why I bought them: I wanted to buy a quality pyjama, preferably in the style of “Jinbei (甚平).” Usually, Jinbei pants are quite short, which didn’t really appeal to me. I discovered that there were Jinbei with long pants at the KIMONOYA store in Paris. They are not cheap, but they are made in Japan. I liked the simple (even austere) design of this one.

My daily use : I’m satisfied with the “ryokan” at-home feeling that transports me to Japan when I wear my pyjama. The fabric is quite thick, so it might be a bit warm in hot weather, but for winter and mid-season, it’s entirely appropriate (I might need to find a kind of Japanese indoor coat to complete the set).

2 VINTAGE LEVI’S JEANS

Vintage jeans 501 LEVI’S (bought at Chloé’s NUMÉRO DEUX)

Date of purchase : October 2023

Why I bought them : Inspired by my colleagues Anne, Deedee and Géraldine finding their ideal jeans through Chloé from Numéro Deux, I wanted to try the experience since I’ve never been fully satisfied with a pair of jeans. Knowing that Chloé manages to find vintage Levi’s jeans and then has them altered to fit perfectly, I took the plunge, like any regular customer, and was not disappointed.

My daily use : I wear both of my jeans (one black and one blue) all the time; they have a loose and comfortable fit. I no longer need to own many different jeans: these fulfill all my expectations—vintage and high quality, what more could I ask for! (I might consider getting a white pair in the future since my current one from Uniqlo is starting to wear out.)

MADONNA CELEBRATION TOUR TEESHIRT

Teeshirt Like A Virgin The Celebration Tour MADONNA

Date of purchase: November 2023

Why I bought it : A completely unexpected purchase, driven by the excitement of experiencing the 2 best concerts of my year (or even my life!) during Madonna’s Celebration Tour. I wanted to keep a memento by choosing this reissue of the 1985 Like a Virgin tour T-shirt (with a nod to the retrospective event, printed on the back).

My daily use : Since I bought it in late autumn, I can’t say I wear it every day in these winter temperatures, but I know I’ll use it with pleasure at festivals/concerts or even this summer with a casual look. I actually find the T-shirt’s quality quite good compared to the usual concert T-shirts sold.

BLUNDSTONE BOOTS

Boots Classic Chelsea 558 BLUNDSTONE

Date of purchase : December 2023

Why I bought them : I mentioned here that I was looking for rain boots due to the predominantly humid Parisian weather. My quest has not stopped since: I tried many models, but none were convincing enough for me (cute but uncomfortable Hunter ankle boots—should I mention that my feet are very picky about comfort, especially with age, okay Aigle boots but the logo too visible(=same for Hunter)… until I saw these Blundstone boots on an Italian tourist in December. I asked her about the model she was wearing and where she bought them: Lucky me ! She acquired them the day before at a store in Les Halles (Sagone, 21 rue Mondétour, PARIS 1). So, I went to try them on (= this is what we call real-life influence! hehe) and adopted them!

My daily use : I walked the streets of London non-stop with them, in the rain and in Paris too. These boots are made of water-resistant leather, allowing better breathability than rubber while maintaining good waterproofing. I later saw that there are even more waterproof models of Blundstone boots (with a blue tag), but I am satisfied with these in terms of comfort, waterproofing, and the versatile design. I will keep you posted on their durability over the years.

ATELIER PARTICULIER BELT

Suede belt ATELIER PARTICULIER

Gift date : March 2023 (Late Christmas gift from my friend Lionel)

My daily use : I wouldn’t have thought to invest in a beige-colored belt, but it seems that my friend Lionel has a stylistic flair and anticipates my desires! This belt is simply perfect for elevating a simple outfit and giving it a touch of chic. I’ve worn it on multiple occasions with different outfits. A very good find!

2 ELOÏSE FIORENTINO EARRINGS

ORIGINE and MARÉES earrings ELOÏSE FIORENTINO

Date of gift : June 2023 from the creator

My daily use : I own several pairs from the creator for several years and love them. This year, I was fortunate to receive 2 new pairs: large, delicate golden hoops, and this more imposing model. Elegance, simplicity, and refinement: definite values for me.

DUNST BLAZER

Blazer unisexe “Button heavy wool jacket beige herringbone » DUNST

Date of gift : November 2023 by Dunst

My daily use : I had the chance to be invited to discover this South Korean brand during an evening in a Parisian pop-up store. I was greatly impressed by the lookbook silhouettes and style, especially this unisex beige-gray blazer. It’s warm, the composition is decent (50% wool), and its cut allows me to update my boyish looks a bit. I’ll keep you updated on its quality over time.

DUNST GREEN SWEATER

Green sweater DUNST

Dateof gift : November 2023 by Dunst

My daily use : I thought the green color would add some spice to my looks (I don’t own a green sweater, knowing that this color can harmonize wonderfully with camel, beige).

A slight disappointment when I took a closer look at the composition of this sweater since it contains only 5% cashmere and 27% wool—far too little for a sweater called “essential cashmere”! I haven’t worn it much yet, but I have some doubts about its longevity. I didn’t pay enough attention to dissect the composition, so I’m much less convinced by this item than the blazer. It goes to show that, within the same brand, one must stay vigilant… but to be continued!

TO SUM UP

Even if this fashion review turns out to be quite satisfactory for me, I was disappointed by a few acquisitions due to lack of vigilance (Dunst sweater) or a decline in the level of attention to finishing details (Converse). Despite shopping consciously and accepting only gifts that please me (in terms of “influencer” gifts), one sometimes has to face missteps! It will teach me to be even more vigilant in the future.

In any case, I believe I can wear everything that entered my wardrobe in 2023 frequently. The question remains whether the quality will endure! Looking ahead, I don’t really have clothing/accessories left on my ideal wardrobe wish-list and am content with what I already own, so I’m crossing my fingers to maintain more or less the same body size and tastes over the years.

The “shoes” category might become challenging for me, as some ankle boots or slightly more “dressy” shoes in my possession become uncomfortable (thank you, hallux valgus): I might need to update my shoes in the future. But otherwise, unless there’s a great love-at-first-sight moment, I don’t plan to invest in other clothing.

And you? How have you analyzed your fashion review for the year 2023? (English translation by Quiterie)

HAPPY 2024 !

Mon 1 Jan, 2024 · Art, Illustration

And here’s the start-of-year tradition I’ve been happy to perpetuate for 6 years now: My New Year’s wishes and the sending of greetings cards!

The year 2023 turned out to be an emotional rollercoaster for me, but was nonetheless rich in lessons and happy moments. I don’t know what 2024 has in store for me, but I’m ready for it!

MAY 2024 BE SWEET AND SPARKLING !

In these complicated times, it’s become a little tricky to wish each other a happy new year in a carefree and light-hearted way, but let’s persevere… We need it!

I therefore wish you continued vitality, which is essential to the success of all your endeavours. May this year shine with its good times, and succeed in brightening up the darkest ones.

Health, love and enchantment in everyday life: that’s what I want to wish you from the bottom of my heart.

MY 2024 GREETING CARD(S)

This year, I’ve designed 4 different greeting cards. Each one represents a mood and trend for 2024.

I wanted to give them a little retro look in the style of US posters and logos, featuring my alter ego Tokyobibi inside of course! So, what’s on your mind? In a relaxed, sporty, festive or gourmet mood for 2024? I hope you’ll enjoy them!

A SIGNED CARD FOR YOU

Like every year, the principle is simple to try to receive one signed by me in your mailbox. You have to::

Leave me a comment below
Tell me if you prefer to receive a “Cosy &nice”, “Savoury & sweet”, “Crazy & sparkling” ou “Sporty & healthy” card
Tell me about your wishes for 2024 (I’ve been told it helps your wishes come true ;-))
You have until SUNDAY JANUARY 7TH to do so !

I’llchoose 20 people to whom I will send my wishes by mail. Thank you for being here after almost 17 years and participating … And once again, Merry & happy 2024 to you! (English translation by Quiterie)

January 14th EDIT : Thank you all for your messages, your wishes and your enthusiasm for this traditional contest! I’m touched by your words and your loyalty. Here are the 20 people to whom I’ll be sending my greetings (=watch out for your mailbox and spam so I can get your postal addresses ) Well done and thank you! <3