Book Reviews Reviews

Comic Review: The Art of Sushi (2021) by Franckie Alarcon

A wondrous trip into the world of sushi

“Fly to Japan and come discover all there is to know about sushi. After revealing the secrets of chocolate to us, Franckie Alarcon offers a gourmet panorama of this exceptional dish that has conquered the planet! But do you really know sushi? The author traveled to Japan to meet all the players involved in the making of this true work of culinary art. From the traditional starred chef to the young cook who is shaking up the rules, including all the artisans and producers involved, this book covers the most emblematic of Japanese products from A to Z. A fascinating journey of discovery that, along the way, tells a lot about Japan itself. You'll never believe the precision and detailed obsession with quality ingredients involved.” ()

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A cultured exploration of Japanese cuisine, “” presents a detailed research of all the various elements behind the artistry. The emphasis on consideration of ingredients showing the difference to detail between Western and Japanese sushiyas' – proving the books challenge; “but do you really know sushi?”. From the fish market to the rice paddy fields, each ingredient is assessed down to the most minute detail, showing how the most renowned names in the industry make a name through quality ingredients. Alternatively, the book delves into innovation in the industry that reimagines classic techniques to appeal to the younger generation of Japanese who prioritize convenience and affordability – offering a unique window into the world of sushi that can only be experienced in Japan.

Geared towards informative over entertaining, the release acts as a reference that can be revisited time and time again. Art is utilized to breakdown the different types of sushi, along with the tools of the trade and different techniques used in preparation. Furthermore, the attention to detail is carried over into every element that compliments the dining experience, with sake, ceramics and rice types (to name a few) spotlighted to show the culmination of Japanese dining .As such, Franckie Alarcon's artistic approach aims to accurately convey all these elements and excels in capturing the intricacies of the various processes.

Outside of tackling the technical approach, the release captures the cultural significance of sharing food – bonding over a meal. Not at pronounced as discussion around food preparation, the social narrative in understanding the cuisine can't be understated. In particular, Alarcon carries his experiences in Japan back to his native France with a renewed appreciation for the craft. Overall, the personal reflections on the journey act to tie everything together in a way that makes it accessible for any reader, regardless of their understanding of sushi.

“The Art of Sushi” is a journey into the Japanese cuisine that will inspire readers to explore the food further, working as both a narrative of self discovery and informational guide. As such, the release will whet the appetite of both foodies and comic book fans alike – a wondrous trip into the world of sushi.

About the author

Adam Symchuk

Adam Symchuk is a Canadian born freelance writer and editor who has been writing for Asian Movie Pulse since 2018. He is currently focused on covering manga, manhwa and light novels having reviewed hundreds of titles in the past two years.

His love of film came from horror and exploitation films from Japan that he devoured in his teens. His love of comics came from falling in love with the works of Shuzo Oshimi, Junji Ito, Hideshi Hino, and Inio Asano but has expanded to a general love of the medium and all its genres.

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