i just finished reading memories of silk and straw, a self-portrait of small-town japan by dr. junichi saga. anyone who has any complaints about how hard life is should read this “collective autobiography based on interviews taped by a provincial doctor.” most of the interviews revolve around life around the early 1900s in a small rural japanese town. even though most of the people grew up with almost literally nothing, their spirit, determination, humor, and humanity shine through all of their stories.
Amazon link for your convenience: Memories of Silk and Straw: A Self-Portrait of Small-Town Japan
memories of silk and straw