Releasing December 2024
The Salaryman: An American Dude Joins the Ranks of Tokyo's White-Collar Warriors
Want to know more about Japanese culture? Fan of fish-out-of-water stories? You're going to love this uproarious romp as author Michael Thuresseon reveals his stumbles and bumbles as he navigates his way through Tokyo's corporate "salaryman" culture.
What happens when a young American unexpectedly finds himself thrust into the demanding world of a Tokyo “salaryman”? After author Michael Thuresson leaves his 9-to-5 California job for Japan, he becomes one of the few foreign employees in a large company that epitomizes the overworked salaryman lifestyle.
In this candid and entertaining memoir, complete with manga-style illustrations, Thuresson offers a humorous and revealing glimpse into Japan’s ultra-traditional workplace culture. Follow his journey as he tackles endless meetings, late-night drinking and karaoke sessions, mandatory health checks, and the surreal experience of commuting—and occasionally napping—in a packed train.
Whether you’ve dreamed of working abroad or are simply curious about life in Japan, Thuresson’s engaging narrative provides an insightful and entertaining look at immersing oneself in a new culture. Prepare to laugh, reflect, and be inspired as you join him on this unforgettable adventure.
Author: Michael Thuresson
Illustrations: Rena Saiya and Kazuhiro Yoshida
"Thoroughly entertaining...A true insider's look at corporate Japan."
— The Japan Times
About the Author
Michael Thuresson is a Tokyo-based humor writer who hails from Chicago. In 2008, he left his laid-back Los Angeles office job to join the ranks of Tokyo’s iconic “salaryman.” More than fifteen years later, he’s still trying to adapt his American ways to the salaryman lifestyle. It hasn’t necessarily gotten easier, but it does make for great material to write about. He encourages his fans to distract him from his daytime job by contacting him at www.michaelthuresson.com.
Praise for The Salaryman (first edition)
"Thoroughly entertaining...A true insider's look at corporate Japan."
—The Japan Times
Howard's first book is fun, digestible and relatable, without holding back on the nitty-gritty and at times painful episodes endured by the typical salaryman."
—Tokyo Weekender
A candid and, at times, somewhat cynical view of how large, traditional Japanese enterprises work...you will enjoy reading Mr. Howard's thorough account of the often absurd facts of life for a foreigner working within such an environment."
—Ryu Tokyo