Territory of Light

Territory of Light is an incredibly calming novel of a young mother in Japan learning to come to terms with life as a single parent. The author's description of the narrator processing the divorce was refreshing, as there was no specific blame pushed to either party, but instead a general consideration given to what both parties need instead of eachother. The novel is incredibly descriptive, almost meditative and melodic, as the story follows the mother in search of a new flat, examining different sources of light, experiencing terror, anger, relief, sorrow, love... Reading the character's fight to regain her sense of self, control over her life, connect with society and find peace amidst the chaos is something many of us will be able to relate to. There is no word wasted in this novel, a story of experience through time and all senses. A slow, and soothing read.