Geri o Shimasu

At first glance, Geri o Shimasu: Adventures of a Baka Gaijin by Alia Luria might masquerade as a series of amusing travel essays. But upon closer inspection, this is not a “foreigner-in-a-strange-land” comedy of errors. It’s a subtle meditation on friction—the emotional, cultural, and even physical resistance we encounter when we leave behind the scaffolding of our familiar worlds. This book is, at its core, a dissection of discomfort as a transformative force.

-- Spotlyts

Final Verdict: A Brilliant, Hilarious, and Unexpectedly Moving Read

If David Sedaris, Bill Bryson, and a self-deprecating haiku master co-wrote a book about living in Japan, Geri o Shimasu would be the result. It is equal parts memoir, social commentary, comedy, and poetry—a blend as unique as the author’s experience.

Whether you’re an avid traveler, an armchair adventurer, or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted tale of triumph and mortification, this book delivers. Just don’t read it while eating sushi. You’ve been warned.

-- Atlas of Stories

Alia Luria’s Geri o Shimasu: Adventures of a Baka Gaijin is a perceptive and engaging collection of essays that explores the complexities of cultural identity, expatriate experiences, and the often surreal nature of life in a foreign country. With a sharp sense of humor and an unfiltered voice, Luria offers an insightful look at Japan, language, and cross-cultural encounters that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining."

-- BookViral

"Luria's prose crackles with self-aware wit, right down to the chapter titles, but her gift isn't limited to humor; she writes with rich imagery and deep insight that make this a joy to read."

-- BookLife

"As someone who reads across genres and edits with a focus on voice and tone, I found this collection to be an exceptional example of voice-driven non-fiction. Author Luria’s writing isn’t just fearless, it’s fiercely hers. There’s nothing performative here; it’s messy, it’s real, and it’s electric."

-- The Reading Bud

"[this book is a delight, a lively, entertaining, and not infrequently profound account of the author’s stay in Japan for a semester as a law student."

-- Indie Reader

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