Book Club

I stumbled upon this gem in a Spanish bookstore—one of my favorite places to find unique titles. Laura Imai Messina’s WA: La vía Japonesa a la armonía is an exquisite reflection on the Japanese way of life, where beauty, harmony, civility, and moderation prevail. As someone deeply connected to Japanese culture, this book has been an absolute treasure for me.

The concept of wa—harmony—is explored through 72 carefully chosen Japanese words. Each word serves as a doorway into the heart of Japanese traditions, values, and philosophies. Messina’s prose unravels the profound meanings behind these words, painting a picture of a way of life deeply rooted in balance and unity.

What’s especially beautiful is how the book is structured around the four seasons, with each season exploring a set of words that embody the essence of that time of year. It’s a perfect reflection of the Japanese reverence for nature and the…

Welcome to our group Book Club! A space for us to connect and share with each other. Start by posting your thoughts, sharing media, or creating a poll.

I read Ikigai some time ago, but it left a lasting impact on me. Having visited Japan and falling deeply in love with its culture, it was a thrill to dive deeper into the way the Japanese approach life and philosophy. The book was an exploration of how Okinawans, who are known for their longevity and quality of life, embody the concept of ikigai—or “reason for being.”

What struck me the most was the book’s conversational and engaging tone. The authors took me on a journey, offering glimpses into the lives of the Okinawan people, the places they visited, and the wisdom they gathered. It felt like peeking into a world that values simplicity, purpose, and connection in a way that we often overlook in the West.

One idea that resonated with me deeply was that in Japan, there is no word for "retirement." The concept of retiring doesn’t exist because…