A Rich Blend of Food, Feminism, and Flawed Character

Kamalika_Reads 24

Book: Butter

Author: Asako Yuzuki, translated by Polly Barton 

Publishers: Fourth Estate

Genre: Crime fiction

Rating: 4.5/5

How I came to know about this book:

This book was selected as a September read by The HWR Writers' Book Club, curated by The Himalayan Writing Retreat.  This book was already in rave on social media and so I was intrigued for quite some time.

What the book is about :

In Butter, Asako Yuzuki masterfully intertwines food and feminism, two seemingly distinct topics, and binds them within a crime narrative without tipping into the thriller genre. At the heart of the story is the intriguing dynamic between an excellent cook and convicted murderer, Manako Kajii, and journalist Rika Machida. Yuzuki uses food as a lens to explore complex issues surrounding gender, societal expectations, and personal identity.

What I have loved about the book :

As a woman, I found the story particularly relatable. The vulnerabilities of the female characters—Manako, Rika, and Reiko—felt deeply personal, as they each grapple with their desires while concealing them from a judgmental society. The flawed nature of these characters creates a fascinating interplay of conflicts and wants, making their monologues feel like reflections of my own. Yuzuki doesn’t preach but subtly critiques the patriarchal mindset, striking a balance between satire and depth.

The book’s deliberate pace suits its layered texture perfectly, requiring readers to savor each moment, like a long-awaited meal. This isn’t a book to rush through; its rich, sensory descriptions invite reflection. The ending, though understated, offers comfort rather than high-stakes drama. Yet, I found myself yearning for a glimpse into what Manako Kajii's future might hold—perhaps a short reflection or hint of what she’s thinking or planning next.

What I felt could have been better :

The book being marketed as a thriller based on a true story used the three killings as Clickbait only.

While I appreciated the detailed descriptions of food, particularly as they enhanced the novel’s themes, there were parts in the middle that dragged. Certain repetitions, such as the frequent mention of butter's unavailability, could have been trimmed to maintain the narrative's flow. I also would have enjoyed seeing more traditional Japanese cuisine instead of the French dishes that appeared throughout. 

Why one should read or not read this book:

Overall, Butter is an easy yet deeply layered read, one that prompts thought and invites pauses to digest its intricacies. It's a unique exploration of women's lives, struggles, and the unspoken ties that bind them to the kitchen and to each other.

Butter is available on Amazon: https://amzn.in/d/4lL1aTy

Steamed rice and mashed potato with a dash of butter top the list of my comfort foods. What's your comfort food?