The Kamogawa Food Detectives

The Kamogawa Food Detectives search for the taste of memories. Like sights and sounds, tastes are also deeply connected to one’s memories. The depictions of the beautiful scenery of Kyoto and its native dishes, which are like the original landscape of Japan, warmed my heart – Genki Kawamura, author of If Cats Disappeared from the WorldThe food writing is truly superb * Cambridge Edition *‘The Kamogawa Food Detectives is an absolute joy; hilarious, emotional, and entirely delicious. Hisashi Kashiwai’s tales of love lost, found, grown older and reborn are both striking and comforting — truly one of a kind. Delectable and delightful’ – Bryan Washington, author of Family MealThe ultimate cozy, and a glimpse into a world that is at once quieter, more ritualized and seemingly simpler than mine, and yet strangely familiar. I savored every word – KJ Dell’Antonia, author of The Chicken SistersAn early contender for my favorite book of the year. For anyone who loves magnificent food writing and great storytelling, this novel is a moving, beautiful, and impeccably detailed tribute to the power of a great meal – J. Ryan Stradal, New York Times bestselling author of Kitchens of the Great MidwestKashiwai’s unique blend of seasonings is more than enough to transform each into a five-star-worthy dish… [A] warm memory blanket of nostalgia. Readers [will] eagerly devour each morsel of this miso soup for the soul… A nourishing collection of bite-sized stories with a hearty dash of savory flavor * Kirkus *Outstanding… A culinary and cultural exploration of Japanese cuisine… The novel includes mouthwatering descriptions of food as well as a nuanced description of life in Japan… Readers will take delight in Kashiwai’s exquisite meals and the culinary history that accompanies them * Library Journal *[An] ode to the magic of food * People *Charming… This book offers more than beautifully crafted stories of life’s challenges and joys. It is filled with glimpses into Japanese culture… The kind of book you pick up and savor every page. A brilliant first installment to a series, it is expertly crafted and leaves you hungry for more * New York Journal of Books *Rather than chase a Michelin star, [the Kamogawa Food Detectives] chase stardust—the kind memories are made of, as they recreate elusive dishes that hold special meaning for each patron. Our favorite meals often tell a story… This touching novel captures that truth * First for Women *

Hisashi Kashiwai was born in 1952 and was raised in Kyoto. He graduated from Osaka Dental University. After graduating, he returned to Kyoto to open a dental clinic. He has written extensively about his native city and has collaborated in TV programs and magazines.