Scattered All Over the Earth by Yoko Tawada, translated by Margaret Mitsutani, is acclaimed for its imaginative narrative and themes of language and identity. Critics praise its inventive use of a post-apocalyptic context to explore human connection. Some found the pacing uneven. Overall, it's seen as an intellectually stimulating read.

Readers who appreciate Scattered All Over the Earth by Yoko Tawada and Transl. Margaret Mitsutani are drawn to speculative fiction exploring language, culture, and identity. Fans of The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson and 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami will enjoy this novel’s innovative narrative and global perspective.

In Yoko Tawada's Scattered All Over the Earth, Hiruko, a refugee from a vanished "land of sushi," traverses Europe in search of compatriots, aided by a growing group of friends including Knut, a linguist, and Akash, a transgender Indian student. The novel delves into themes of cultural hybridity, language as identity, and the stress of diaspora through their journey, reflecting Tawada’s exophonic literary identity. The text contains both anti-immigrant and anti-transgender language.

Mysterious / Challenging / Contemplative / Fantastical / Melancholic

- Yoko Tawada, author of Scattered All Over the Earth, is a bilingual writer who pens works in both Japanese and German, reflecting cross-cultural themes.
- Translator Margaret Mitsutani is known for her expertise in translating Japanese literature into English, including works by renowned author Kenzaburō Ōe.
- The novel blends speculative fiction with imaginative linguistic exploration, showcasing Tawada's unique storytelling style.

Yoko Tawada

Transl. Margaret Mitsutani

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Fiction

Guide

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Overview

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Scattered All Over the Earth Summary and Study Guide

Background

Scattered All Over the Earth Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Scattered All Over the Earth Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-5

Scattered All Over the Earth Chapters 4-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-7

Scattered All Over the Earth Chapters 6-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-10

Scattered All Over the Earth Chapters 8-10 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Scattered All Over the Earth Character Analysis

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Themes

Scattered All Over the Earth Themes

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Scattered All Over the Earth Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Scattered All Over the Earth Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Scattered All Over the Earth Essay Topics

Scattered All Over the Earth

Before You Read

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Who Should Read Scattered All Over the Earth?

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