Last Tuesday, August 27, I finally got my Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N2 result and I still couldn't believe I passed!

I really thought I would fail the exam because:

1.) I didn't study enough. I was so distracted with the issues/problems I had during those period that I already branded myself as #TeamDecember few months before taking the exam.

2.) I focused my review on grammar (I even bought a grammar drill book) but all the grammar lessons I studied and memorized were useless in the exam!

3.) I didn't review for the other parts of the exam. But hey, that wasn't intentional. I was originally planning to start with kanji and vocab but I guess my brain couldn't handle too much information so before it exploded, I chose to start with grammar instead. But what a sweet surprise! N2 grammar lessons were also difficult. So much for thinking it was the lesser evil. The nuances and very slight differences between some grammar lessons drove me crazy. But at least grammar wasn't heavily concentrated on memorization, so at least I can confidently say that I retained more information in here than when I tried (and failed) to start first with kanji and vocab. And because grammar was very time-consuming, I never managed to actually study kanji and vocab. Hopefully, I will be able to study the reference materials I bought even though the exam was already over.

4.) I didn't sleep the night before the exam. My head was aching all throughout the day, feeling like a zombie while sipping coffee float to keep my eyes open, that I swear if I retake the test, I will never ever try an all-nighter again. Cramming was never a good habit. I know that but I kept on doing it during exams. (ノ_<。)

5.) I didn't know a lot of the kanji and vocab which appeared in the exam. It was already hard to guess the correct answer when you recognized only one kanji from the word/term in question. But it was harder when you didn't recognize both or when you recognize both kanji but didn't know what they mean nor how they are read when combined.

6.) The listening part was the hardest part of the exam. Due to my hobby, listening has always been the easiest section for me. That's why I was baffled at how difficult it was, considering that I found the N3's listening part to be easy. I really didn't expect for N2's listening section to be a giant leap from N3's.


So when I found out my score, I even asked my friend to double check the result for me because I doubted the result. (Thought it must be a system glitch or my eyes were just playing tricks on me or my impostor syndrome was kicking in.) But the result was still the same. I really passed the exam! (꒦ິ⌑꒦ີ)

In this year's JLPT, I answered the reading section first. It was something I've never done before. But I've read a lot of sites which recommended this JLPT technique so I decided to try it (my mindset that time: I will be retaking in December, anyway, so why not?) and I'm glad I did!

Not only did I save time, it also gave me more patience and concentration to read the giant walls of text and understand the paragraphs and what was being asked about. So after the exam, I was more confident on my reading scores than the rest of the exam parts. Heck, I was more confident on it this time compared to my reading sections in previous JLPT.

So imagine how my confidence was instantly crushed into millions of pieces when I saw that my reading score was only 32 points over 60. Yeah, sure it was more than half but I expected I did better than this. But looking back, maybe the reason for my overconfidence was because I thought I understand most of the paragraphs/stories and the questions I've read. But in reality, I didn't. I was not able to fully grasp them, or my comprehension level was not enough to determine the correct answer.

Ironically, I felt my listening score was a poorly written joke or just pure luck. Although I've answered some questions smoothly, there were moments during the exam wherein I didn't catch up the question or the choices because I spaced out. I have so many answers which were merely guesses. I couldn't believe I managed to guess the right answers.


I couldn't say anything more about my language knowledge score because it was realistically low. For someone like me who didn't really made a serious effort in studying N2 kanji and vocab, that's a pretty high score.

Overall, my score shows which areas I need to work on and improve.

Now, if you are going to ask me what my next goal is, I won't say it's passing N1. I need to concentrate more on using the language by reading and/or speaking so all what I've studied wouldn't go in vain. During the two years I slacked off, I forgot so many vocabularies, kanjis, and grammar points I knew all because I never used it. I don't want to repeat the same mistakes again so I really hope I could make a decent progress in reading books as it was one of the most effective ways to retain what you already knew and learn what you didn't know yet.

All conflicts were smoothly resolved, but I am not satisfied with the way the story went off to a different direction nor on how it was ended. I am not pleased with how the "I want to be the King of Novels" became "the King of Novels are the readers".

Cinematography was quite typical. Songs used in the drama were upbeat and catchy, while the background songs were well-thought and perfectly blended in the mood of the scenes. Acting wise, the cast did a good job in portraying their respective roles.

Overall, I won't say it's a bad drama. It's a promising work that could have been better. I'm still recommending everyone to watch Shousetsu Ou since we all have different perspectives on things and you guys might like it better than I do. (*˙˘˙*)❥

Rating: ★★☆☆☆

Original Title:  死命 ～刑事のタイムリミット～ SP
Network: TV Asahi
No. of Episodes: 1
Release Date: May 19, 2019
Cast: Yoshida Kotaro, Kaku Kento, Renbutsu Misako, Nakao Akiyoshi, Yamaya Kasumi
Genre: Mystery, drama, police procedural, investigation
Notes: Based on a novel, 1 hour and 41 minutes

Review:

Truth be told, I watched this drama SP because of the cast, so when I started watching it, I literally have no idea about the plot. Turns out to be a really good story worth recommending to everyone who loves mystery/police drama like me.

The story centers about Tokyo MPD First Division Detective Aoi Ryo who, during the investigation of a serial murder case, was diagnosed with a recurrence of the stomach cancer he had three years ago. Still, he decided to focus on arresting the serial killer instead of getting hospitalized for his treatment. Now, here comes the most interesting part of the plot: the killer was also suffering from stomach cancer and his days were already numbered. So he decided to give in to his homicidal impulses and started roaming the streets at night to kill women.

Both the police detective and the criminal were currently in the face of life or death ( 死命~ shimei) situation and yet they were both determined to carry out their own separate missions (指名~ shimei).
I find it really fascinating because I have never watched nor read a story like this before. I also like the fact that as audience, we are given the chance to see the sides and struggles of both the detective and the criminal. This isn't exactly a whodunit mystery since we are initially introduced to the culprit way before the police managed to find out his identity. More like a whydunit because at the end of the SP, the reason why the criminal turned out that way was revealed.

I love the backstory of the characters and their relationship with one another. I love character developments, the sprinkle of comic relief, the sharp pangs of realism and social issues, the soft pat on the shoulder of life lessons, and the tension, edginess, pacing, and execution. It was a roller coaster ride of emotions. At one scene, you will smile and laugh, at another, you will feel nervous and on the edge of your seat, then you will feel sad, and troubled, if not disturbed.

Overall, it was really a satisfying drama SP and I'm really glad I watched it. Kudos to everyone behind this wonderful show!

Rating: ★★★★☆

❥ Ushinawareru Monogatari - Otsuichi
Although I prefer reading longer fiction, Otsuichi is the one who brought me to wonderful world of short stories. He made me realize that you do not need to write longer prose to create a good story. I've been a fan since I've read GOTH, which I'm currently rereading right now, and I'd love to read more of his works. Sadly, it's hard to find most of his English-translated books in the market so I would try my luck (and skills) if I can read his works in raw Japanese.
I'm so happy to have a copy of this book because according to Wiki, it contains seven different stories:

1.) Calling You
2.) Ushinawareru Monogatari
3.) Kiz/Kids
4.) Te wo Nigiru Dorobō no Monogatari
5.) Happiness is a Warm Kitty
6.) Maria no Yubi Boku no Kashikoi Pantsu-kun
7.) Usokano

Calling You was already published in English in 2007, containing the stories, Calling You, Kiz/Kids and Flower Song. Unfortunately, it was one of the hardest books to find and buy and it's always unavailable in Bookdepository.
I am familiar with Kiz/Kids because I have watched its live action movie adaptation several years ago starring Tamaki Hiroshi and Teppei Koike and I loved it so much. It's one of my favorite movies, so I can't help but smile at the thought that I have now the chance to finally read its gensaku!
I have no idea of the content of the other five stories but since these are works of Otsuichi, I can safely assume they're all good!

❥ Chotto Ima Kara Shigoto Yametekuru - Kitagawa Emi
This book has been recommended to me before by Inhae of Inside That Japanese Book. She said it's easy to read. I've been trying to read and finish a raw Japanese book for two years now but I always give up because I get so overwhelmed with the kanjis I didn't recognize. This might be one of the books that could make me get out of the curse. Especially since the movie adaptation of Ima Kara has a special place in my heart. This story broke my heart to pieces and carefully put back the broken pieces and made me whole again. It gave me peace and more reason to be motivated and positive about life in general. Very inspiring. I hope the book would to do the same.

❥ Mikkakan no Koufuku - Sugaru Miaki
I've already started reading the English-translated version of this book but had to stop due to my JLPT preparation last July. Unfortunately, I didn't have the opportunity to resume it after the exam. I am hoping to reread it after I finished rereading GOTH or Audition. By the way, the English version was a fan translation. It was not published officially but you can read it for free at Vgperson's site.
Having a copy of raw version and the English version will surely be a great learning experience so I am also looking forward to reading this book.

These books were bought at Book-off, which is a famous second-hand bookstore in Japan. The price is really cheap and the books are all in good condition they look brand new. When I had the chance to visit Japan more than two years ago, I hoarded books and manga at Book-off because I knew how expensive a book can get when you order them online and ship them to my country. The price of the book doesn't just get doubled, sometimes, it even get tripled. Shipping fee is so expensive it feels like when they transport it they attach a gold bar with your item.

So please, if you are learning Japanese like me and you have the chance to go to Japan, buy books at Book-off. You'll be surprised at what you can get for a cheap price! (ゝ∀･)b

P.S. I've created a new twitter account exclusively for my love for Japanese literature. That is where I'm going to post my reading progress so I hope you'll check it out as well. ( *ˊᵕˋ)

Disclaimer: this post is a work in progress.


➳ Maggie-sensei - what I love about this site is the very detailed explanation on each topics and the generous amount of examples. Their explanations are not just walls of text, they are short, precise, and straight to the point. Plus, they use colorful texts, emojis, and pictures of animals. Some parts even have an audio!

It's also helpful to read the comment section of each posts because they really answer the questions! It's pretty convenient especially if you have a question in mind and someone has already asked that question. But if it your question was not yet asked by someone else, you can always comment and wait for their reply.　( *ˊᵕˋ )♡
➳ Japanesetest4you - when it comes to grammar, I always check this site because even though it falls short on explanation (they usually just put the meaning), most of the JLPT grammar lessons are in here. Aside from grammar lessons, they also have vocabularies and kanji lessons, too. And it really helps me to remember well because it has lots of examples which are accompanied with audio. Yes, each example has an audio!

Each lesson also has flashcards you can save on your phone, which is really convenient because you can browse it anytime you want to.

This is a long list of Japanese dramas I have finished watching. Please note that this is not chronologically arranged and Japanese movies are not included in this list. Italicized titles mean I watched them raw.

1.) IQ246 Karei Naru Jikenbo ★★★★☆
2.) Kizoku Tantei ★★★★★
3.) Kari Kare ★★☆☆☆
4.) Career～Okiteyaburi no Keisatsu Shocho～ ★★★★☆
5.) Seisei Suruhodo, Aishiteru ★★★☆☆
6.) Naomi to Kanako ★★★★★
7.) Tomodachi Game ★★★☆☆
8.) Papa Katsu ★☆☆☆☆
9.) Kahogo no Kahoko ★★★★★
10.) Long Vacation ★★☆☆☆
11.) Kono Yo no Hate ★★★★★
12.) Kimi wa Petto ★★★★☆
13.) Rental no Koi ★☆☆☆☆
14.) Cecile no Mokuromi ★★☆☆☆
15.) Keishicho Ikimono Gakari ★★☆☆☆
16.) Garasu no Ie ★☆☆☆☆
17.) A LIFE～Kanashiki Hito～ ★★★★★
18.) Sakurako-san no Ashimoto ni wa Shitai ga Umatteiru ★★★★☆
19.) Kirawareru Yuuki ★★★★☆
20.) Hito wa Mitame ga 100 Percent ★★★☆☆
21.) Sumika Sumire ★★★★☆
22.) Sutekina Sen Taxi ★★★★★
23.) Ghostwriter ★★★★★
24.) Kuzu no Honkai ★★★☆☆
25.) Tokyo Tarareba Musume ★★★☆☆
26.) Totsuzen Desu ga, Ashita Kekkon Shimasu ★★☆☆☆
27.) Rakuen ★★☆☆☆
28.) Ishitachi no Renai Jijou ★★★☆☆
29.) Dansui! ★★☆☆☆
30.) Sensei ni Koishita Natsu ★★★☆☆
31.) Sekai Ichi Muzukashii Koi ★★★☆☆
32.) Itsuka Kono Koi wo Omoidashite Kitto Naite Shimau ★★★★★
33.) Quartet ★★★★★
34.) Reverse ★★★★☆
35.) Chiisana Kyojin ★★★★☆
36.) Boku, Unmei no Hito Desu ★★★★☆
37.) Virtual Detective Tabito Higurashi (SP) ★★★☆☆
38.) Shikaku Tantei Higurashi Tabito ★★★☆☆
39.) Soshite, Dare mo Inaku Natta ★★☆☆☆
40.) Shihei ★★★☆☆
41.) Dokushin Kizoku ★★★☆☆
42.) PRICELESS~Aru Wake Nedaro, n namon!~ ★★★★☆
43.) Dear Sister ★★★☆☆
44.) 5→9: Watashi ni Koi Shita Ikemen Sugiru Obousan ★★★★☆
45.) Shitsuren Chocolatier ★★☆☆☆
46.) Rich Man, Poor Woman ★★★★☆
47.) Rich Man, Poor Woman in New York (SP) ★★★★☆
48.) Reinoryokusha Odagiri Kyoko no Uso ★★★☆☆
49.) Tokyo Love Story ★★★★☆
50.) Tokyo Love Story (SP) ★★☆☆☆
51.) Hidarime Tantei EYE ★★★☆☆
52.) Hidarime Tantei EYE (SP) ★★★☆☆
53.) Yonimo Kimyona Monogatari 2014 Spring (SP) ★★★★☆
54.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2017 Summer (SP) ★★☆☆☆
55.) Shinzanmono ★★★★☆
56.) Akai Yubi - Shinzanmono Kaga Kyouichiro Futatabi! (SP) ★★★★☆
57.) Nemuri no Mori - Shinzanmono SP ★★★★☆
58.) Take Five~Oretachi wa Ai wo Nusumeru ka~ ★★★☆☆
59.) Jiu: Keishichou Tokushuhan Sousakei ★★☆☆☆
60.) Shiawase ni Narou yo ★★★☆☆
61.) Densha Otoko ★★★★★
62.) Densha Otoko Deluxe Saigo no Seisen (SP) ★★★☆☆
63.) Hana Yori Dango ★★★★☆
64.) Hanazakari no Kimitachi e: Ikemen Paradise ★★★☆☆
65.) Hanazakari no Kimitachi e 2011 ★★☆☆☆
66.) Arakawa Under the Bridge ★★☆☆☆
67.) Woman ★★★★☆
68.) Nobunaga Concerto ★★★★☆
69.) Hirugao - Heijitsu Gogo 3-ji no Koibitotachi ★★★★★
70.) Gakkou no Kaidan ★★★☆☆
71.) Watashi Kekkon Dekinainjanakute, Shinain Desu ★★★★★
72.) Good Morning Call S1★★★☆☆
73.) Aogeba Toutoshi ★★★★☆
74.) Ai wa Mieru ~ Zenmou Fuufu ni Yadotta Chiisana Inochi (SP) ★★★★★
75.) Attention Please ★★★★☆
76.) Attention Please 2007 (SP) ★★★☆☆
77.) Attention Please 2008 (SP) ★★★★☆
78.) Celeb to Binbo Taro ★★☆☆☆
79.) Hanzawa Naoki ★★★★★
80.) Joker: Yurusarezaru Sousakan ★★★★★
81.) Joker: Yurusarezaru Sousakan (SP) ★★☆☆☆


82.) Legal High S1★★★★★
83.) Legal High S1 (SP) ★★★★★
84.) Legal High S2 ★★★★★
85.) Legal High S2 (SP) ★★★★★
86.) Dr. Rintaro ★★★★☆
87.) Dragon Zakura ★★★★★
88.) MR. BRAIN ★★★★★
89.) My Boss, My Hero ★★★★☆
90.) Okitegami Kyoko no Biboroku ★★★★★
91.) Ranma ½ (SP) ★★☆☆☆
92.) Nobuta wo Produce ★★★★★
93.) Kurosagi ★★★☆☆
94.) Buzzer Beat ★★★★☆
95.) Saikou no Jinsei no Owarikata~Ending Planner~★★★★☆
96.) Summer Nude ★★★☆☆
97.) Algernon ni Hanataba wo ★★★★☆
98.) Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge ★★★☆☆
99.) Kami no Shizuku ★★★★☆
100.) Kaito Yamaneko ★★★★★
101.) Transit Girls ★★★☆☆
102.) Orange Days ★★★★☆
103.) Yankee-kun to Megane-chan ★★★☆☆
105.) Bloody Monday S1 ★★★★★
106.) Bloody Monday S2 ★★★★☆
107.) The Quiz Show S1★★★★★
108.) The Quiz Show S2 ★★★☆☆
109.) Hanasaki Mai ga Damatte Inai S1★★★★★
110.) Hanasaki Mai ga Damatte Inai S2 ★★★★★
111.) Satsujin Hensachi 70 (SP) ★★★☆☆
112.) Galileo S1★★★★★
113.) Galileo S2 ★★★★☆
114.) Galileo Episode 0 ★★★★★
115.) Galileo XX ★★★★☆
116.) Taisetsu na Koto wa Subete Kimi ga Oshiete Kureta ★★★★☆
117.) Mokuyo Gekijyo Higashino Keigo Mysteries ★★★★☆
118.) Last Cinderella ★☆☆☆☆
119.) Hana no Kusari (SP) ★★★☆☆
120.) Kagi no Kakatta Heya ★★★★☆
121.) Kagi no Kakatta Heya SP ★★★★☆
122.) Liar Game S1★★★★★
123.) Liar Game S2 ★★★★☆
124.) Liar Game Episode Zero ★★★☆☆
125.) Liar Game Reborn SP - Fukunaga VS Yokoya ★★★★☆
126.) Ryusei no Kizuna ★★★★★
127.) BOSS S1★★★★☆
128.) BOSS S2 ★★★★★
129.) Keizoku S1★★★★★
130.) Keizoku S1 SP: Phantom ★★★★☆
131.) Keizoku S2: SPEC ★★★★★
132.) Bara no nai Hanaya ★★★★★
133.) Love Shuffle ★★★★★
134.) Meitantei no Okite ★★★☆☆
135.) Don Quixote ★★★☆☆
136.) Nazotoki wa Dinner no Ato de ★★★★☆
137.) Nazotoki wa Dinner no Ato de SP ★★★★☆
138.) Kazoku Game ★★★★★
139.) Otomen ★★★★☆
140.) GOLD ★★★☆☆
141.) Asuko March! ★★★☆☆
142.) W no Higeki ★★★★☆
143.) Iki Mo Dekinai Natsu ★★☆☆☆
144.) Otenki Onee-san ★★★☆☆
145.) Subete ga F ni Naru ★★☆☆☆
146.) LIFE ★★★★★
147.) Ghost Friends ★★☆☆☆
148.) IS - Otoko Demo Onna Demo Nai Sei ★★★★★
149.) Watashi ga Renai Dekinai Riyuu ★★★★☆
150.) Teen Court ★☆☆☆☆
151.) Mirai Nikki - Another : World - ★★★☆☆
152.) Beginners! ★★★★★
153.) Biblia Koshodou no Jiken Techou ★★★★☆
154.) Watashi no Kirai na Tantei ★★★☆☆
155.) Bambino! ★★★★★
156.) Myu no Anyo Papa ni Ageru (SP) ★★★★☆
157.) Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo S1★★★☆☆
158.) Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo S2 ★★★★☆
159.) Limit ★★★★☆


160.) N no Tame ni ★★★★★
161.) Watashi to Kare to Oshaberi Kuruma (SP) ★☆☆☆☆
162.) Mei-chan no Shitsuji ★★☆☆☆
163.) Kuro no Onna Kyoushi ★★★☆☆
164.) Sprout ★★☆☆☆
165.) CLAMP Dorama Horikku xxxHOLiC ★★☆☆☆
166.) 35 sai no Koukousei ★★★★☆
167.) Gomen ne Seishun! ★★★★☆
168.) Omotesando Koukou Gasshoubu! ★★★★☆
169.) Teddy Go! ★★☆☆☆
170.) Kasuka na Kanojo ★★★★☆
171.) Date - Koi to wa Donna Mono Kashira ★★★★★
172.) Akumu-chan ★★☆☆☆
173.) Tantei no Tantei ★★★★☆
174.) Yakou Kanransha ★★★★★
175.) Shokuzai ★★★☆☆
176.) Ouran High School Host Club ★★☆☆☆
177.) Nazo no Tenkousei ★★★☆☆
178.) Shinigami-kun ★★★★☆
179.) Akuryo Byoutou ★☆☆☆☆
180.) Kurosaki-kun no Iinari ni Nante Naranai (SP) ★★☆☆☆
181.) Jyoou no Kyoushitsu ★★★★★
182.) Koizora ★★★★☆
183.) Atashinchi no Danshi ★★★☆☆
184.) Tumbling ★★★★★
185.) Lost Days ★☆☆☆☆
186.) Mohouhan (SP) ★★★★☆
187.) Kono Misuteri ga Sugoi! ~Besutosera Sakka kara no Chousenjou~ (SP) ★★★★☆
188.) Kingyo Club ★★★☆☆
189.) ST MPD Scientific Investigation Squad (SP) ★★★★★
190.) Seigi no Mikata ★★★★★
191.) Hammer Session! ★★★★☆
192.) Dandarin Rodo Kijun Kantokukan ★★★★☆
192.) Itazura na Kiss ~Love in Tokyo ★★★★☆
193.) Itazura na Kiss 2~Love in Okinawa (SP) ★★★☆☆
194.) 11nin mo iru! ★☆☆☆☆
195.) 20nen-go no Kimi e (SP) ★★★★★
196.) Akai Ito ★★★☆☆
197.) Alice in Liar Game (SP) ★★★★☆
198.) Meitantei Conan: Kudo Shinichi e no Chousenjou ★★★★★
199.) Meitantei Conan: Kudo Shinichi e no Chousenjou Kaicho Densetsu no Nazo (SP) ★★★★★
200.) Hachi-One Diver ★★☆☆☆


201.) Alice no Toge ★★★★★
202.) Nodame Cantabile ★★★★★
203.) Nodame Cantabile in Europe (SP) ★★★★★
204.) Last Friends ★★★☆☆
205.) Last Friends SP Encore ★☆☆☆☆
206.) Godhand Teru ★★★★★
207.) Orthros no Inu ★★★★☆
208.) Bartender ★★★★☆
209.) Soumatou Kabushikigaisha ★★★☆☆
210.) Yukan Club ★★★☆☆
211.) Kimi Hannin Janai yo ne? ★★☆☆☆
212.) First Kiss ★★★☆☆
213.) Ataru ★★★★☆
214.) Saba Doru ★★☆☆☆
215.) Zettai Kareshi ★☆☆☆☆
216.) Young Black Jack (SP) ★★★★★
217.) Utsukushii Rinjin ★★★☆☆
218.) Bitter Blood ★★★★★
219.) Saki ★★★★★
220.) Q10 ★★★☆☆
221.) Mondai no Aru Restaurant ★★★★★
222.) Sayonara Debussy: Pianist Tantei Misaki Yosuke (SP) ★★★☆☆
223.) Kogure Shashinkan ★★★☆☆
224.) Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo ★★★☆☆
225.) Toilet no Kamisama (SP) ★★★☆☆
226.) Mother ★★★★★
227.) Kaseifu no Mita ★★★★★
228.) Moto Kare ★☆☆☆☆
229.) Hard Nut! ★★★★☆
230.) Hachimitsu to Clover ★★★☆☆
231.) Ano hi mita hana no namae o bokutachi wa mada shiranai. (SP) ★★★★☆
232.) Koinaka ★★★★☆
233.) Answer ~ Keishicho Kensho Sosakan ★★★★☆
234.) Piece ★★★☆☆
235.) Pin to Kona ★★★☆☆
236.) Ikemen Desu ne ★★★☆☆
237.) Jigoku Shoujo ★☆☆☆☆
238.) Jotei ★★★☆☆
239.) Romeo and Juliet (SP) ★★★☆☆
240.) Shiritsu Bakaleya Koukou ★★☆☆☆
241.) Tensai Tantei Mitarai: Nankai Jiken File - Kasa wo Oru Onna (SP) ★★★★★
242.) Switch Girl!! S1★★☆☆☆
243.) Switch Girl!! S2 ★★☆☆☆
244.) Suugaku Joshi Gakuen ★☆☆☆☆
245.) Honboshi: Shinri Tokusou Jikenbo ★★★★★
246.) Strawberry on the Shortcake ★★★★★
247.) Naze Shoujo wa Kioku wo Ushinawanakereba Naranakatta no ka? (SP) ★★★★☆
248.) So Long ★★★☆☆
249.) Spring Story (SP) ★☆☆☆☆
250.) Maou ★★★★★
251.) Marathon (SP) ★★★★★
252.) Riyuu (SP) ★★★☆☆
253.) Sunakugari (SP) ★★★☆☆
254.) Nagai Nagai Satsujin (SP) ★★★★☆
255.) Level 7 (SP) ★★★☆☆
256.) Aozora no Tamago ★★★☆☆
257.) Boku to Kanojo no XXX ★☆☆☆☆
258.) Houkago wa Mystery Totomo ni ★★☆☆☆
259.) Date - Koi to wa Donna Mono Kashira (SP) ★★★☆☆
260.) Delicious Gakuin ★☆☆☆☆
261.) First Class ★☆☆☆☆
262.) Fuma no Kojiro ★☆☆☆☆
263.) Hungry! ★★★★★
264.) Gokusen ★★★☆☆
265.) Koko wa Greenwood ★☆☆☆☆
266.) Kyohansha (SP) ★★★☆☆
267.) Futatsu no Spica ★★★☆☆
268.) Byakuyako ★★★★★
269.) Hotaru no Hikari S1★★★★★
270.) Hotaru no Hikari S2 ★★★☆☆
271.) Kanojo to no Tadashii Asobikata (SP) ★★★☆☆
272.) Karamazov no Kyodai ★★☆☆☆
273.) Yamada-kun to 7-nin no Majo ★★★☆☆
274.) Koe Koi ★★★☆☆
275.) Kaseki no Hohoemi (SP) ★★★☆☆
276.) Ani ni Aisaresugite Komattemasu ★★☆☆☆
277.) Kodaike no Hitobito (SP) ★★★☆☆
278.) Suzuki Koji Real Horror ★★☆☆☆
279.) Nietzsche-sensei ★★★☆☆
279.) Yowamushi Pedal S1 ★★★☆☆
280.) Ryusei Wagon ★★★★★
281.) Itazura na Kiss 2～Love in Tokyo ★★★★☆
282.) Bad Boys J ★☆☆☆☆
283.) Basuke mo Koi mo, Shiteitai ★☆☆☆☆
284.) Tokyo Alice ★☆☆☆☆
285.) Tokuyama Daigoro wo Dare ga Koroshita ka? ★★☆☆☆
286.) Starman～Kono Hoshi no Koi ★★★☆☆
287.) Cain and Abel ★★★★☆
288.) Proposal Daisakusen ★★★★☆
289.) Proposal Daisakusen (SP) ★★★★★
290.) Aishiteru to Ittekure ★★★☆☆
291.) Higanbana ～Keishicho Sosa Nana ka～ ★★★☆☆
292.) Keiji Yugami ★★★★☆
293.) Higanbana ～Onnatachi no Hanzai Fairu～ ★★☆☆☆
294.) Ashi Girl ★★★☆☆
295.) Siren ★★★★★
296.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2010 (SP) ★★★☆☆
297.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2011 (SP) ★★★★☆
298.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2012 (SP) ★★★★☆
299.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2013 (SP) ★★★★☆
300.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2014 (SP) ★★★☆☆
301.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2015 (SP) ★★★★☆
302.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2016 (SP) ★★☆☆☆
303.) Yonimo Kimyona Monogatari 2010 Fall (SP) ★★★★★
304.) Yonimo Kimyona Monogatari 2014 Fall (SP) ★★☆☆☆
305.) Yonimo Kimyona Monogatari 2015 Spring (SP) ★★★☆☆
306.) Koi ga Heta Demo Ikitemasu ★★★☆☆
307.) Umi no Ue no Shinryoujo ★★☆☆☆
308.) Dame na Watashi ni Koishite Kudasai ★★☆☆☆
309.) Namonaki Doku ★★★☆☆
310.) Anata no Tonari ni Dareka Iru ★★★☆☆
311.) Minshu no Teki～Yononaka, Okashikunai Desuka ★★★★★
312.) Peter no Souretsu ★★★★☆
313.) Boukyaku no Sachiko (SP) ★★★★☆
314.) Good Morning Call S2: Our Campus Days ★★★☆☆
315.) Kimi wa Petto (2017) ★★★☆☆
316.) Re:Mind ★★☆☆☆
317.) Re:Wind (SP) ★☆☆☆☆
318.) Frankenstein no Koi ★★☆☆☆
319.) Zeni no Sensou ★★★★☆
320.) Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi 2009 (SP) ★★☆☆☆s
321.) Flashback ★★★☆☆
322.) Haru ga Kita ★★☆☆☆
323.) Hana ni Kedamono ★☆☆☆☆
324.) Joshi teki Seikatsu ★★★☆☆


325.) Unnatural ★★★★★
326.) Todome no Kiss ★★★★☆
327.) Kuragehime ★★★☆☆
328.) anone ★★★★☆
329.) Cold Case S1 ★★★☆☆
330.) Todome no Parallel ★★★☆☆
331.) Denei Shoujo: Video Girl Ai 2018 ★★☆☆☆
332.) Kakegurui S1★★★☆☆
333.) Anata no Koto wa Sorehodo ★★★☆☆
334.) Repeat: Unmei wo Kaeru 10-kagetsu ★☆☆☆☆
335.) Sogeki (SP) ★★☆☆☆
336.) Seigi no Se ★★★★☆
337.) Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu ★★★☆☆
338.) Black Revenge ★★★★☆
339.) Aino Kekkon Soudanjo ★★★☆☆
340.) Watashi ni Unmei no Koi Nante Arienaitte Omotteta (SP) ★★★☆☆


341.) Confidence Man JP ★★★★★
342.) Signal ★★★★☆
343.) Ani Tomo ★★★☆☆
344.) Watashi ni xx Shinasai! ★☆☆☆☆
345.) Kataomoi ★★★★☆
346.) Koe Girl! ★★★☆☆
347.) Gokumontou (SP) ★★★★☆
348.) Akuma ga Kitarite Fue wo Fuku (SP) ★★★★☆
349.) Koukou Nyuushi ★★★☆☆
350.) Chef ~Mitsuboshi no Kyushoku~ ★★★★★
351.) Orient Kyuukou Satsujin Jiken (SP) ★★★★★
352.) Sakanaya Blues (SP) ★★☆☆☆
353.) Ossan's Love (2018) ★★★★☆
354.) Switched ★★★★★
355.) Tantei Monogatari (SP) ★★☆☆☆
356.) 4.50 from Paddington - Night Express Train Murder (SP) ★★★☆☆
357.) Daijoyu Satsujin Jiken - Kagami wa Yoko ni Hibi Warete (SP) ★★★★☆
358.) Garasu no Kamen S1 ★★★★☆
359.) Gakeppuchi Hotel ★★☆☆☆
360.) Demo Kekkon Shitai! (SP) ★★★★☆
361.) Cheer Dan ★★★★☆
362.) Kahogo no Kahoko (SP) ★★★★☆
363.) Hitotsu Yane no Shita S1 ★★★★★
364.) Ito-kun A to E ★★★★☆
365.) Hakusen Nagashi S1 ★★☆☆☆
366.) CHIEF ~ Keishichou IR Bunsekishitsu (SP) ★★★☆☆
367.) Gibo to Musume Blues ★★★★★
368.) Akira to Akira ★★★★☆
369.) Bungaku Shoujo ★★★★☆
370.) Kakugo wa Iika Soko no Joshi ★★★☆☆
371.) Kimi no Te ga Sasayaite Iru ★★★★★
372.) Dele ★★★★☆
373.) Five ★★★☆☆
374.) Unubore Deka ★★★☆☆
375.) Eerie: Mienai Kao ★★★★★
376.) Watashi to Iu Na no Hensokyoku (SP) ★★☆☆☆
377.) Kuroi Fukuin (SP) ★★☆☆☆
378.) Kuroido Goroshi (SP) ★★★★★
379.) Musume no Kekkon (SP) ★★★★☆


380.) Kangoku no Ohimesama ★★★★★
381.) Kyou Kara Ore Wa!! ★★★★☆
382.) Dairenai ~ Boku wo Wasureru Kimi to ★★★☆☆
383.) Prince of Legend ★★★☆☆
384.) Kurokouchi ★★★★☆
385.) Ie Uru Onna S1 ★★★★☆
386.) Kaettekita Ie Uru Onna (SP) ★★★★☆
387.) Mars: Tada, Kimi wo Aishiteru ★★★☆☆
388.) Kareshi wo Ron de Kaimashita ★★★☆☆
389.) Jimi ni Sugoi! ★★★★☆
390.) Legal V ★★★★★
391.) Mikaiketsu no Onna ★★★★☆
392.) Toshi Densetsu no Onna S1 ★★★☆☆
393.) 3-nen A-gumi ★★★★★
394.) Nusumareta Kao ~ Miatari Sousahan ★★★☆☆
395.) 3-nen A-gumi (SP) ★★★★☆
396.) Himomen ★★☆☆☆
397.) Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san 2016 Year-end SP ★★★☆☆
398.) Okusama wa, Toriatsukai Chuui ★★★★☆
399.) Ossan's Love 2016 SP ★★★☆☆
400.) Les Miserables Owarinaki Tabiji (SP) ★★★★☆
402.) Koukou Kyoushi (1993) ★★★★★
403.) Dareka ga Kanojo wo Aishiteru ★★★☆☆
404.) Kono Koi wa Tsumi na no ka?! ★★★☆☆
405.) Konna Mirai wa Kiitenai!! ★★★☆☆
406.) Kodoku no Gurume S1 ★★★★☆
407.) Koukou Kyoushi (1993) SP ★★★★☆
408.) Takane to Hana ★★★☆☆
409.) Boku no Hatsukoi wo Kimi ni Sasagu (2019) ★★★★☆


410.) Anata no Ban Desu S1 ★★★★★
411.) Anata no Ban Desu S1 (SP) ★★★★★
412.) Haken Uranaishi Ataru ★★★☆☆
413.) Shitei Bengoshi (SP) ★★★☆☆
414.) Akari to Kuzu (SP) ★★★★☆
415.) Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu! (2016) ★☆☆☆☆
416.) Shousetsu Ou ★★☆☆☆
417.)
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A young  man makes a shocking discovery while visiting his parents’ home. Along with a purse and a lock of hair that may have belonged to his recently deceased mother, Ryosuke finds three journals with notes that seem to be the confessions of a murderer.
Now, he has to figure out what’s fact, what’s fiction... and who are these people he’s called “Mom” and “Dad.”
Available for the first time in English, Nan-Core is an unsettling, unrelentingly suspenseful tale from one of Japan's most intriguing novelists.

Review:
So I bought my copy of the book on my local go-to bookshop on Facebook which sells various pre-loved and remaindered books online.

I started reading it with knowledge of what will happen in the story, and I guess that's where I went wrong. After I put down the book, I sighed because I ended up being quite disappointed with it. Yes, this is one of the few instances wherein the movie was better than the original novel.

Although I love how easy it was to read, I couldn't help but point out that the translation was a bit cringey and there were also a few typos in the book. The format or style of how it was written was awkward especially when it's the father's turn to narrate his part of the story. It should've been better if all have been in third person point of view except for the notebooks.

Another factor would be the change in the title to "Nan-Core". To me, it seemed like they were trying too hard to find an English equivalent to a unique and special word that was only created for this novel. They should've just stick with the original title instead.

Still, I gave it a pretty high score because I still love the whole story and it was something you wouldn't read very often.

Rating: ★★★★☆