Japanese by Spring
Japanese by Spring by Ishmael Reed is a reprint edition published by Penguin on August 1, 1996. This 240-page novel follows Benjamin “Chappie” Puttbutt, a black junior professor at the predominantly white Jack London College, as he navigates the complexities of academic life while yearning for tenure. The narrative unfolds as Puttbutt’s Japanese tutor unexpectedly becomes the school’s new president and appoints him as academic dean, setting the stage for a series of humorous and provocative events.
Readers will find a satirical exploration of contemporary political and social movements, including feminism and nationalism, as Puttbutt attempts to challenge the status quo and address longstanding grievances. The novel combines elements of fiction and social commentary, offering insights into the dynamics of race and academia. With its blend of humor and seriousness, Japanese by Spring presents a unique perspective on the intricacies of university politics and identity.
Official synopsis Publisher
Benjamin “Chappie” Puttbutt, a black juior professor at the overwhelmingly white Jack London College, lusts after tenure and its glorious perks (including a house in the Oakland Hills). He spends most of his time trying to divine the ideological climate of the school and obligingly adapting his beliefs to it. When Puttbutt’s mysterious Japanese tutor, who promises to teach him Japanese by spring, suddenly becomes the school’s new president and appoints Puttbutt as academic dean, the fun really begins—for Puttbutt sets out to stir things up and settle old scores.
Turning every contemporary political and social movement on its head—from feminism to nationalism to jingoism—this boistrois and irreverent novel manages to be by turns hilarious and totally serious.
“One of the funniest satires of university politics I’ve ever read. Ishmael Reed is funnier than Norman Mailer or Gore Vidal.” —Leslie Marmon Silko
“Reed is, as always, an American original; a wiseguy whose wisdom is the real thing,” —The Boston Sunday Globe
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