Urawaza

Description

An urawaza is a "secret" tip or trick to remedy an everyday problem ingeniously, inventively, and resourcefully. The solutions are often unexpected and, in using available everyday materials and strategies, also eco-friendly. Urawaza is a Japanese word originally coined by gamers in the '80s to describe secrets and shortcuts in Nintendo videogames. The word has evolved into describing the clever and unusual tips and tricks used in Japan to maximize efficiency and value of everyday items. This is the first book tracing the phenomenon and collecting more than 100 useful tips. Each entry is presented as a lighthearted dilemma, including a solution through an urawaza and an explanation of how/why this works.

Lisa Katayama grew up in Tokyo, where she observed first-hand the popularity of urawaza. She is an associate editor at Planet magazine and a regular contributor to Wired magazine, as well as a member of JAPA, which is a group of trendsetters in Japanese pop-culture.

Armed with urawaza like these, you'll never need a store-bought fix again. ReadyMade magazine TOYKO ART BEAT There is more to Urawaza, however, than these tricks exposed. The Tokyo-born and bred Katayama delves into the history of the craft and contributes anecdotes from her own experiences, meaning readers come out knowing that much more about life in the megalopolis. Her witty, down-to-earth style makes for a fun read while illustrator Joel Holland adds a comic book touch, and just a hint of irreverence.