"An Editor's Theory of Reading: I'll Teach You How to Find Interesting Books"

2023/08/17

When you hear the term "theory of reading," you might think it sounds somewhat difficult. Many people likely hesitate to pick up such a book, imagining stiff content. My reason for writing this book was the thought that there should be a work in the world of reading theory written from the same perspective as the reader, by an editor.

I cover episodes related to books from various angles, but in Chapter 1, I discuss the reading theories of editors from around the world. I believe this is quite rare. This is a chapter I was able to write because my work in translation publishing gave me the opportunity to contact foreign editors and be inspired by them. In particular, I really wanted to introduce the story of Ivan Sytin, an outstanding Russian publisher. Sytin's activities, having been very close to Tolstoy and Chekhov, offer much for an editor to learn.

In Chapter 2, "Fascinating Theories of Reading from Around the World," you will likely be surprised by the revolutionary Mao Zedong's intensity as a reader. I also believe Somerset Maugham's very frank theory of reading is worth a read. His advice to prioritize enjoyable reading is extremely beneficial for those of us who often feel intimidated by world literature. Furthermore, his recommendation to skim books like "The Brothers Karamazov" and "War and Peace" is a unique and valuable perspective characteristic of Maugham's relaxed approach. I believe the suggestion to read world literature in a relaxed manner is exactly what is needed now.

The chapters on bookstores and libraries around the world are partly based on my own experiences, so I think they will be an interesting read. I would also like you to try out my suggestions in the chapters explaining the importance of starting with "short stories" to read long-form authors, enjoying the fascination of "autobiographical literature," and the final chapter's proposal to reread "children's literature" as an adult. Some children's literature leaves a completely different impression when read as an adult in an unabridged version. I hope you will pick up this book and read the various works introduced within.

"An Editor's Theory of Reading: I'll Teach You How to Find Interesting Books"

Minoru Komai

Kobunsha Shinsho

344 pages, 1,034 yen (tax included)

*Affiliations and titles are as of the time of publication.