James Costa: Do you think certain people have their fate written for them as in the book? In fact, I enjoyed incorporating an original story into a myth that is well-known in Japan. Did you find it confining as a writer to work on a book where you were restrained by the story of the myth?

James Costa: I truly enjoyed The Goddess Chronicle.

I learned Rebecca Copeland did a wonderful translation, and sincerely thank her for her work. I have a rather strong desire to see directly the political intentions which were often concealed in so-called “Myths.” I created the sisters Namima and Kamikuu to symbolize this. Izanami is a deity, but, as a woman she was heavily burdened with her sex and the role of reproduction. Thus, I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce the world to this Japanese myth.īeing born a woman is not a matter of choice. Reading the myth, however, where a woman is excessively demeaned because her association with childbirth is considered unclean, always makes me feel sad and such bias is likely the source of the discrimination women still experience today. The story of Izanagi and Izanami is well-known among Japanese myths. I felt the idea sophisticated and decided to work on the project. They requested that I write an original novel based on an ancient Japanese myth. As for writing a book based on a myth, the British publisher, Canongate Books, invited me through the publisher Kadokawa Shoten to write a novel for their Myths series. However, I write novels of various genres. I’ve been introduced to American readers through the translations of my crime novels such as Out, Grotesque, and Real World and this has led to my categorization as a mystery writer. It is a thrill to think that I have young readers in the US. Natsuo Kirino: I’m the one who should thank you for reading my books.

What made you decide to publish a book based on an ancient myth as your next book? You are mostly known for mysteries in the US. You are truly one of my favorite Japanese writers. Kirino, thank you for allowing me to interview you. Special thanks are due to Ms Kirino and also to Ayako Akaogi for the translation of the questions to Japanese and the responses to English. Natsuo Kirino is the author of the recently released The Goddess Chronicle, from Canongate Books, as well as bestselling crime fiction such as Out, Grotesque, and Real World. She has graciously consented to an email interview with Three Guys One Book.

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