As a book reviewer, I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher or author to facilitate this review. I received no other compensation, and all opinions are always 100% my own.
Shigeko Ito’s childhood in Japan included both wealth and parental neglect–to the point that she was desperate for connection and love. Her first encounter with a healthy family dynamic was when she came to California as an exchange student, and bonded with her host mother. Returning to the rigid society of her birth was rough, and she ended up in a mental hospital at 17. Her mother, mostly concerned with public image, persuaded some doctors to quickly release her.
At 22, Shigeko emigrated to the US in hopes of recreating her own healthy marriage and family. Here, she thrived! She completed advanced degrees, started her career, married a great guy, and managed her life with flair.
Cracks began to show when her son was born immediately after a cross-country move and the death of her host mother, with whom she’d remained close. But they were manageable–and after all, whose life wouldn’t be a bit cracked in those circumstances? Things really come to a head when her son reaches adolescence and begins testing their boundaries. Shigeko’s traumatic childhood comes roaring back with a vengeance in the form of intense flashbacks. This coincides with Shigeko going through menopause, and it all proves too much. With her most meaningful relationships on shaky ground, she reaches out for therapy.
The Pond Beyond the Forest is a gripping read. I enjoyed learning more about Japanese society as the book moves back and forth telling stories and incidents from throughout Shigeko’s life. A talented writer who doesn’t hold back, Shigeko takes us deep into the raw emotion and messy places of her life. Ultimately, her journey of understanding and forgiveness will pay off, and readers may learn something of themselves as well.
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