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Tokyo Ever After (Tokyo Ever After #1) by Emiko Jean Book Review
Title: Tokyo Ever After
Author: Emiko Jean
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Release Date: May 18, 2021
Pages: 336
Izumi Tanaka has never really felt like she fit in—it isn’t easy being Japanese American in her small, mostly white, northern California town. Raised by a single mother, it’s always been Izumi—or Izzy, because “It’s easier this way”—and her mom against the world. But then Izzy discovers a clue to her previously unknown father’s identity… and he’s none other than the Crown Prince of Japan. Which means outspoken, irreverent Izzy is literally a princess.
In a whirlwind, Izzy travels to Japan to meet the father she never knew and discover the country she always dreamed of. But being a princess isn’t all ball gowns and tiaras. There are conniving cousins, a hungry press, a scowling but handsome bodyguard who just might be her soulmate, and thousands of years of tradition and customs to learn practically overnight.
Izzy soon finds herself caught between worlds, and between versions of herself—back home, she was never “American” enough, and in Japan, she must prove she’s “Japanese” enough. Will Izumi crumble under the weight of the crown, or will she live out her fairytale, happily ever after?
My Thoughts
Izumi "Izzy" Tanaka is living life like a normal teenager in a small town in California. Her life has always been her mother in her, so when she and her best friends discover a clue about her father, she jumps at the chance to unveil his identity.
Originally I wanted to get to know my father. But it's bigger than that. I came to figure out who I am, where I'm from. Finding somewhere I belong.
It turns out Izzy's father is a real-life prince. To be exact, the Crown Prince of Japan. Which makes Izzy a princess. After a series of events, Izzy ends up on a flight to Japan where she finally gets to meet her father. However, being a princess isn't easy, especially in a foreign country where Izzy doesn't even know the language.
I don't have an American half and a Japanese half. I am a whole person. Nobody gets to tell me if I am Japanese enough or too American.
Star Rating: ★★★★☆ (4)
Just like that Izzy becomes a real princess. What in the world? I loved Izzy. She was so interesting to follow and I love her open attitude to all the difficulties she came across. Her mom was also so understanding towards her daughter. No wonder why they got along so well. As for the Crown Prince of Japan, her dad, I loved how the author didn't make him perfect. He had flaws because he's human too and that's what made it real and nice to read.
Overall, Tokyo Ever After was an enjoyable novel following Izzy as she moves from being a Californian girl to a princess in a matter of days. I enjoyed it very much and am looking forward to book two!
About the Author
When Emiko Jean isn’t writing, she is reading. Before she became a writer, she was an entomologist, a candlemaker, a florist, and most recently, a teacher. She lives in Washington with her husband and children (unruly twins). She is also the author of Empress of all Seasons and We'll Never Be Apart.
When Emiko Jean isn’t writing, she is reading. Before she became a writer, she was an entomologist, a candlemaker, a florist, and most recently, a teacher. She lives in Washington with her husband and children (unruly twins). She is also the author of Empress of all Seasons and We'll Never Be Apart.
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