Reviews
"Reading Cultured Gaijin made me feel like I was getting a private and privileged view into one man’s immersion with Japanese culture in the 1970s—like I was with him, seeing through his perceptive, curious, and finely-tuned eyes. The author provides observations that no tour book could, taking us on a visual and emotional journey into the cities, country side, and culture of an era that has now shifted with time. But it’s not just a book about travel or integrating into a new country. It includes masterfully-laced family themes, questions about identity and upbringing, and a complicated romance that will leave you wanting more. Delmastro’s view of Japan's people and places is a treat to read. The pace feels perfect, the portrayal of Japan is respectful and honest, and the detail is just enough. I felt delighted with each chapter and kept wanting more—up to the surprise ending, which left me talking about the book to my friends and family. I learned a lot about Japan while being immersed with the story, and I look forward to future books by this author." Gracejoce
"I really enjoyed reading this Memoir because as much as it tells the journey of the author finding love, with some unexpected twists, the book also focuses on educating the reader about the Japanese way of life, based on his first hand real-life experiences. I was intrigued by all the characters in the writers past and was able to be transported in my mind back in time to Japan and its fascinating culture. If you appreciate a solid background story with some romance, this book is for you.
Although the author's first book, he has complete control of his story and style and the prose is well constructed, so it reads like the work of an author who has published many books rather than a first timer. Often comical, it’s obvious the writer has a great sense of humor, yet it features powerful life lessons that he learned and wants to share with the reader.
I loved this approach and think the book is better for it – and it appears these early years in Japan have made him a better man too. He kept me fascinated enough to want to keep reading and the unexpected ending is a fitting denouement to a memorable life story. This is a captivating debut." Ron S
"I loved every page of Cultured Gaijin. The author's writing style is humorous and very relatable. You will feel like you're having a pot of Japanese tea with a great guy, hearing his stories about Tokyo, its surrounding environs and beautiful landscapes, and all sorts of people, from the 1970s. You are traveling across time and space in this book, but it feels so real, you won't be able to put it down. Even people who don't like auto biographies will love this one!" Sage Taylor Kingsley
"I thoroughly enjoyed reading this well written book. I loved the stories of old Japan and the author's experience learning the customs of an amazingly interesting and unique culture. The characters and settings are well portrayed making the reader feel connected to them. I wanted to continue reading at every point of the book. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read and interested in Japan and Japanese culture." JL
"Not only is Cultured Gaijin a fascinating journey into Japanese culture, but it is also a vivid snapshot of a time when travelling the world was truly an adventure in discovery. Through the eyes of a young U.S. military man stationed in Japan, the author lets us experience the mystery, the culture shock, and wonders of exploring a world so different to your own.
Though the memoir follows a connective thread of the author's initial years in Japan, it is told in a vignette style which allows him to explore different aspects of Japanese society in a way that is free flowing whilst still being highly engaging. From a perilous ascent up Mt. Fuji to falling in love with a traditional Japanese woman, the author transports the reader to the exact time and place with a perfect balance of detail and pace in his story telling. Watching the growth of the author as he goes from clueless foreigner to the titular cultured gaijin was enjoyable, compelling, and often hilarious.
I'd highly recommend this book for anyone with an interest in Japanese culture and history, or just a desire to feel the joy that comes from exploring the unknown." Jason Spencer
"The description of Japan in the 70s and the "adventures" of our protagonist have not detached me from the book. Highly recommended for those who want to have a thorough understanding of Japan and the Japanese people." Fabio LC
