Because Japan: Brit’s Hilarious, Unabashed Account of Expat Life in Japan
While it may only have been two years, Ash Watson’s life in Japan was chock-full of surprises, soul-searching, hard truths and some wildly unconventional experiences. In his new memoir, ‘Because Japan’, Watson walks readers through expat life through the use of newly learned Japanese phrases. It’s a travel memoir unlike anything else on the shelves, and will have readers chortling, gasping and cutting to humanity’s vulnerable core.
During the two years Ash Watson spent working as a teacher in Northern Tokyo (2016-2018) he not only found himself, but racked up a series of “firsts” that rival any comedy movie or celebrity biography.
He’s now sharing them with the world in ‘Because Japan’, which pulls no punches when exploring the off-the-wall side of life abroad, as well as the serious moments that literally changed Watson’s life.
Synopsis:
Because Japan 日本ですから, is a truly unabashed account of the less publicised side of life in Tokyo for a 'foreigner'.
The book offers a witty, vivid and honest insight into the daily life of a British Expat over the course of two years. The author narrates stories taken from his “Journal of Firsts” which depict many new events including his first struggle, first mental challenge, and first exciting moment he faced living in this strange
and fascinating new world.
Through the use of newly learned Japanese phrases whilst travelling the country, themes of soul-searching, overcoming mental health obstacles, sexual orientation, racial discrimination, and culture shock are explored with honesty and candour. With the addition of a train-based mini series of hilarious encounters, Because Japan 日本ですから offers a behind the scenes insight into the ‘real’ Japan.
“When I arrived in Japan, I didn’t think I’d leave having starred in a television commercial, being caught in a beach stampede and getting attacked on a train by a member of the Yakuza,” explains the author. “I also wasn’t prepared for the humbling and empowering personal growth side, particularly in the areas of sexual orientation, mental health and global outlook. I’m so grateful for each, and hope my experiences bring a few laughs and moments of reflection to my readers.”
Continuing, “I’d encourage anyone to pack up their life and try living abroad for a few years. The culture shock is both disturbing and amazing, and the forced departure from your comfort zone compels you to grow as a person and face your inner adversities head on. I hope you enjoy my story, because they were two years I’ll never forget!”
‘Because Japan’, from Cranthorpe Millner Publishers, is available for pre-order now:
Amazon - https://amzn.to/2Zi66S4
Waterstones - https://bit.ly/323zi1d
Publisher - https://bit.ly/2ZSleVw .
Book Instagram: @becausejapanbook
