Feb 2025 read: The Lantern of Lost Memories by Sanaka Hiiragi

February brought a sense of reflection as I delved into The Lantern of Lost Memories by Sanaka Hiiragi. This deeply emotional novel, with its themes of life, loss, and remembrance, lingered with me long after I turned the last page. It wasn’t just a story—it felt like an invitation to sit with my own memories, to consider what I would hold onto if given the choice. The quiet yet powerful emotions woven through the book made me more aware of the fleeting nature of time and the significance of our cherished moments.

The Lantern of Lost Memories by Sanaa Hiiragi

German title: Die Erinnerungs Fotografen

The Lantern of Lost Memories introduces readers to Mr. Hirasaka's unique photography studio, a mystical space where individuals arrive after death to revisit and select key moments from their lives. Each visitor is presented with photographs representing every day they've lived and must choose one per year to include in a lantern that, when illuminated, guides them to the afterlife. The narrative unfolds through three interconnected stories: an elderly woman reflecting on her vibrant past, a middle-aged man confronting his troubled history, and a young girl seeking solace from a life of hardship. Hiiragi's storytelling delicately weaves themes of love, regret, and resilience, offering readers a heartfelt meditation on the memories that define us.