How Do You Live? by Genzaburo Yoshino

Genre: Middle-grade Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Japanese Literature How Do You Live? by Genzaburo Yoshino is a classic Japanese coming-of-age novel first published in 1937 and translated into English in 2021. It combines story and essay to explore big ethical questions through the eyes of a thoughtful fifteen‑year‑old boy named Junichi Honda, nicknamed “Copper.” 📖 Synopsis Copper, a bright and popular student in pre‑World War II Tokyo, faces the emotional challenges of adolescence—particularly after the death of his father. He confides in his wise uncle, who responds by writing a journal of life lessons on topics such as social class, courage, friendship, and purpose. These reflections are embedded between episodes of Copper’s everyday experiences, exploring everything from bullying to moral responsibility. Ultimately Copper reflects on a path forward and the book closes with the direct challenge posed to the reader: “How do you live?” 🔑 Key Themes

• Ethical Growth and Self-Awareness – Copper’s journey centers on personal responsibility, integrity, and maturity.
• Socioeconomic Awareness – Through interactions with classmates from diverse backgrounds, he learns empathy and rejects arrogance and inequality.
• Mentorship and Reflection – His uncle’s notebook entries offer philosophical depth, combining reflections influenced by thinkers like Copernicus, Newton, and Napoleon.
• Dissent Against Conformity – Written in a time of rising nationalism in Japan, the novel subtly critiques authoritarian values and emphasizes humane integrity.

💡 Why Read It?

• A quiet yet powerful blend of story and philosophical reflection, ideal for thoughtful readers young and old.
• Timeless lessons on empathy, honesty, and integrity rooted in daily life experiences.
• Celebrated globally in recent years—thanks in part to its influence on Hayao Miyazaki and a deeply personal English translation by Bruno Navasky.
• A distinctive guide to growing ethically rooted in compassion, self-awareness, and a sense of purpose.

How Do You Live? is more than a novel—it’s an invitation to thoughtful living. It challenges readers to ask: How will I live?