Shusaku Endo
4 SeriesShusaku Endo (1923-1996) was a Japanese author known for his literary fiction novels exploring the theme of Christianity in Japan. A convert to Catholicism at age 11, he graduated with a BA in French literature from Keio University. Endo received numerous accolades, including the Akutagawa Prize, Mainichi Cultural Prize, Shincho Prize, and Tanizaki Prize.
In "Wonderful Fool" by Shusaku Endo, Gaston Bonaparte, a naive young Frenchman, arrives in Tokyo to stay with his penpal Takamori. His unconventional appearance and behavior disappoint and embarrass his new acquaintances. Despite facing deceit and betrayal, Gaston's trusting nature remains unshaken. Instead of sightseeing, he spends his time befriending street children, stray dogs, prostitutes, and gangsters. Through his interactions, Gaston's unwavering kindness challenges the cynicism around him, offering a poignant exploration of human nature.
