Marion Poschmann’s serene, playful, profoundly moving story of the transformations we seek and the ones we find along the way. Translated by Jen Calleja.

Gilbert Silvester, a lecturer on beard fashions in film, wakes one day from a dream that his wife has cheated on him. In response he flees - immediately, irrationally, inexplicably - to Japan. In Tokyo, he discovers the travel writings of the great Japanese poet Basho. Suddenly, from Gilbert’s directionless crisis there emerges a purpose: a pilgrimage in the footsteps of the poet to see the moon rise over the pine islands of Matsushima. A new beginning to give meaning to his ruptured life.

Shortlisted
The Man Booker International Prize 2019
Published by
Serpent's Tail
Publication date
Marion Poschmann

Marion Poschmann

About the Author

Marion Poschmann was born in Essen, Germany, in December 1969.
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Jen Calleja

Jen Calleja

About the Translator

Jen Calleja was born in Shoreham-by-Sea, UK, in December 1986.
More about Jen Calleja