Wang Yibo makes his first appearance in a Japanese novel!? 'Pakkipaki Beijing' is super interesting [Book Review]

Risa Wataya's novel "Pakkipaki Beijing" (Shueisha) was effective for a heart exhausted by the hectic life of the turn of the fiscal year.

It is neither "healing" nor "cozy." It brings a positive post-reading feeling of "I want to do something fun!!"

The protagonist is honest about her desires. She is not shaken by the posturing of a frenemy (an enemy in the guise of a friend) or by unforeseen circumstances.

Such a protagonist is summoned to China by her husband, who is stationed there during the latter part of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her husband has a high-career vibe, is well-versed in literature, and is knowledgeable about Chinese culture. However, he has not adapted to the foreign culture and is exhausted.

In contrast, the protagonist fearlessly tries unknown foods, fashions, and e-commerce sites she encounters in Beijing, and accelerates the increase of her favorites. She connects online with locals whose language she doesn't speak, and uses translation apps to interact with them in person.

She does not obsess over norms. She does not endure things for the sake of others. She does not dwell on unpleasant things. She chooses the path that she feels is "fun" or "pleasurable," and knows every detail of how to release her own adrenaline.

She is in stark contrast to the protagonist of "Everyone Else is a Stranger", which I read last week, who lived without bothering others but lost sight of her own desires.

While this novel allows you to enjoy a simulated life experience in Beijing, there is a page I couldn't help but fold over, as I enjoy watching dramas currently airing in China.

It is the page where The Untamed star and top actor "Wang Yibo," who boasts an astonishing follower count of over 40 million on Weibo, appears.

I can somehow imagine the feeling of Wang Yibo, who is in high demand for TV and online advertisements, being everywhere. It is only a six-line description, but I wonder if this is the first time Wang Yibo has appeared in a Japanese novel. (If it has happened before, please let me know.)

"Pakkipaki Beijing" is recommended for those who wish to go "somewhere that is not here" while being stuck in the swamp of the "now."

It makes you feel that hints for greedily enjoying your current life might be lying right nearby.

[Reference]
Pakkipaki Beijing (Tankobon) Risa Wataya

https://www.bungei.shueisha.co.jp/shinkan/pakkipaki/