Otani Asako
Pushkin Press
5 May 2026
112
eBook - PDF
Contemporary Fiction
ARC via Edelweiss
In this skewed, mordantly funny novel, two women navigate ageing and relationships in divergent ways. Stuck in a bland, low-paying job, Hirai, 38, agrees to move in with her colleague Suganuma, 42. Both women are single and feel ambivalent at best about the prospect of marriage. Defying social expectations, they create their own soothing domestic routines. But when Suganuma reveals a secret affair, Hirai anxiously rejoins the world of dating apps. As she drifts through painfully adequate dates and endures intrusive questions at office socials, Hirai frets over whether she really needs to freeze her eggs again. In a dating world sapped of genuine connection, where can she turn to feel less hollow?
Hollow Inside was a short but thoughtful read that explored societal expectations on women regarding raising a family, work, living arrangements etc. It was quick and easy reading, but it still made you think and assess your own life, and consider your views on the issues Hirai and Suganuma were facing. If you enjoy this style of short, thought-provoking Japanese contemporary fiction then you are sure to find something to like in this book. I am giving it 4 stars.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
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