Book Review

The Tattoo Murder: Translation of famous Japanese whodunit leaves its mark

Akimitsu Takagi’s classic Japanese locked-room mystery has been translated into English and the 1940s novel is noteworthy for its extensive and nuanced portrayal of Japanese subcultures

Akimitsu Takagi: The Tattoo Murder is the first in a series of novels by the Japanese author that follows forensic medical student and military doctor Kenzo Matsushita

For the first time since its publication in 1948, Akimitsu Takagi’s classic Japanese locked-room mystery has been translated into English. The Tattoo Murder is the first in a series of novels following forensic medical student and military doctor Kenzo Matsushita as he wades through Tokyo’s criminal underworld after returning to civilian life following World War II.

Deborah Boehm’s translation brings this specifically Japanese story to western audiences with ease. The plot is centred on Japan’s ...