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From Library Journal
In this translation of a best-selling novel first published in Japan in 1987, the young narrator, Mikage, moves into the apartment of a friend whose mother is murdered early in the tale. What seems like a coming-of-age melodrama quickly evolves into a deeply moving tale filled with unique characters and themes. Along the way, readers get a taste of contemporary Japan, with its mesh of popular American food and culture. Mikage addresses the role of death, loneliness, and personal as well as sexual identity through a set of striking circumstances and personal remembrances. "Moonlight Shadows," a novella included here, is a more haunting tale of loss and acceptance. In her simple and captive style, Yoshimoto confirms that art is perhaps the best ambassador among nations. Recommended for all fiction collections.
- David A. Berona, Westbrook Coll. Lib., Portland, Me.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The writing style was fine and there was enough to it to keep me reading, but overall I found the book a little depressing. Each of the three stories - two in a pair, and one separate - deal with overcoming the death of a loved one. I would read more by the author only if it had a different theme.

"Kitchen" is the first book I've read by Ms. Banana, and I was so pleasantly surprised at the simplicity of her writing style combined with the power of her message.

The author's very offbeat vibe is retained in this book by skillful translation to English. It also retains its uniquely Japanese flavor, but through it all, the book is very accessable." amazon