Title: The Dancing Girl of Awa
Series: Japanesque TS
Author: Yulia Yu. Sakurazawa
Welcome to a world where gender roles are flipped, societal norms are questioned, and the beauty of Japanese culture shines. Yulia Yu. Sakurazawa’s The Dancing Girl of Awa, a novel from the “Japanesque TS” series, takes readers on a journey of identity, love, and self-discovery, set against the vibrant backdrop of Japan’s corporate world and its iconic Awa Odori dance festival.
This groundbreaking LGBTQ+ novel, translated into English by the author herself, delves into the life of Suzunosuke Bando, a Kyoto University graduate who unexpectedly finds himself navigating a unique workplace culture where men are hired not for their professional skills but for their beauty, obedience, and submissive qualities. Suzunosuke mistakenly applies for a “male sogoshoku” position at IW Corporation, a company where the power firmly lies with strong, independent women. Here, male employees are seen as potential spouses for the highly educated and ambitious female staff, flipping traditional gender dynamics on their head.
But The Dancing Girl of Awa is not just about a corporate dystopia. It’s a poignant exploration of identity, touching on themes of gender fluidity, societal expectations, and the quest for self-acceptance. Suzunosuke’s journey is shaped not only by his workplace but also by his experiences as a dancer in the Awa Odori festival, a celebration of Japanese culture and tradition that becomes a metaphor for his evolving self. As Suzunosuke dons women’s costumes to perform, he begins to question his place in the world, grappling with his identity, desires, and the roles imposed upon him by society.
What sets this novel apart is Sakurazawa’s ability to intertwine the protagonist’s personal journey with a rich cultural narrative. Readers are immersed in the beauty of Japan’s traditional Awa Odori dance, the bustling streets of Kyoto, and the complexities of Japanese corporate culture. The story vividly captures the tension between tradition and modernity, individuality and societal roles, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ themes, gender-bending romance, or Japanese culture.
Suzunosuke’s relationships with two powerful women—Marin, his university choir mate, and Yukimura, a senior at IW Corporation—add layers of complexity to the narrative. Both women challenge Suzunosuke’s understanding of love, loyalty, and identity, leading to a love triangle that transcends traditional notions of gender and romance. The novel deftly explores how love can flourish in unexpected ways and how our sense of self is shaped by those who see us for who we truly are.
Sakurazawa’s storytelling is both thought-provoking and heartfelt, filled with moments of humor, poignancy, and cultural richness. The protagonist’s struggles and triumphs resonate universally, making The Dancing Girl of Awa a must-read for anyone seeking a story that challenges conventions while celebrating individuality.
Why This Novel Stands Out?
What makes The Dancing Girl of Awa truly unique is its ability to blend LGBTQ+ themes with Japanese culture in a way that feels authentic and deeply personal. The novel doesn’t just tell a story; it invites readers to question societal norms, explore the fluidity of identity, and celebrate the beauty of being true to oneself. Whether you’re a fan of gender-bending romance, intrigued by Japanese corporate and cultural dynamics, or simply looking for a story that breaks boundaries, this novel offers a reading experience unlike any other.