Marshland by Otohiko Kaga
(1985) 960 pages

I chose to read this book because of its immense size, as well as the fact that critics say it is on par with Tolstoy’s War and Peace. Marshland describes pre-World War II Japan, and also elements of its reconstruction. It especially highlights prisons, and the brutality of them. It criticizes prisons and the justice system in a way that can make anyone, even those not interested with the law, find great interest in it. I happen to really enjoy this book due to my interest and passion in the legal system, but I am sure that anyone would find that this book is mind-opening. Although around 900 pages, this book keeps the reader interested through the whole thing. Despite being celebrated mainly due to its narrative regarding criminal justice, it also highlights other aspects of life and society that makes one hooked, such as romance, daily workplace nuances and annoyances. The way it seamlessly makes 50 chapters about just a single day still interesting to me is one of the greatest feats a writer can achieve. Marshland by Otohiko Kaga is intimidating, yes, but it is quite rewarding in its entirety. And as an added plus, when finishing it (even though it may take a long time), one will get great satisfaction and feel proud of themselves for being able to complete such a task. Overall this book is a four out of five stars, and really brings insight onto the inequalities and unfairness of prisons and the criminalization of the poor.