Masashi Matsuie, The Summer House ****

The Summer House tells a low-key story about a small Japanese architectural firm creating a design proposal for a National Library of Modern Literature. To escape from the bustle and heat of Tokyo, they repair to a small village in the mountains.

The book is all about mood, with special attention paid to the soundscape. A light breeze carries bird song into the workshop where the architects work to get the curve of a banister just right, the only sound their pencils on paper. There is just enough plot to move us from one relaxing scene to another and to tie together the metaphorical conversations they have about craftsmanship and about balancing tradition with innovation.

The experience of reading The Summer House reminded me of watching a documentary about traditional craftsmen. It's a pleasure to observe their quiet artistry, to celebrate the care they take.