Bombu Review: Sweet Bean Paste by Durian Sukegawa

Sweet Bean Paste, by Durian Sukegawa,

One World Publishers, 2017

Like so many of us, Sentaro has a past. Sadly, his has been marked by a pattern of failures. He drinks too much, has a criminal record, finds no solace in his work making dorayaki at a local shop, and is deeply in debt. He is a man on the verge of giving up. That is until he meets Tokue. Is it possible that someone has had it harder than him? Has seen more sorrow? Yet, this old woman manages to exert a confidence that catches Sentaro off guard. Tokue not only makes the best sweet bean paste that he has ever tasted, but she goes about it with a happiness and love that seems impossible to derive from such a mundane task. In learning both her craft and about her past, Sentaro finds his world transforming. Is this the power of friendship and acceptance?

Durian’s writing is relatable and poetic. His characters are human and tender. This was a hard book to put down as their stories unfolded, intertwined, and came to a tear-inducing crescendo. If you like stories of loss, love, and redemption, this one is for you!

In Jodo Shinshu, we stress the importance of accepting ourselves and each other as we are. Amida’s Primal Vow does not discriminate and neither should we. In entrusting ourselves to that Promise and looking upon our lives and the lives of those around us with gratitude and compassion, none of us are above redemption.