Finding Naomi

By: Diane Hawley Nagatomo

Narrated by: Grier Cooper

Stuck in a dead-end bar job in central Tokyo and barely making ends meet, Naomi Kihara's life turns upside down when her American father, whom she hasn't seen since she was a toddler, dies. Having been brought up to believe he abandoned her, it's a shock to learn she is his heir. But there's a catch: Naomi must go live in his hometown for one year. Felix, Nebraska couldn't be any more different from Tokyo, Japan. And besides, not everyone in town is happy the Johnson property now belongs to the Japanese daughter everyone forgot Mike ever had in the first place. But with the help of her new friends and neighbors, Naomi discovers a strength in herself she never knew existed.

Finding Naomi is the tale of one woman's search for family, acceptance, and love.

©2024 Black Rose Writing (P)2024 Black Rose Writing

Critic reviews

“A delightful novel by a skilled storyteller, Japan and the American Midwest blend seamlessly in this fast-paced modern-day fairy tale.” –Karen Hill Anton, author of A Thousand Graces

An Enjoyable Read/Listen

This is the first book I have read by this author. I found it charming and also holding my breath at parts. The narrator did an excellent job and the character development was spot on. I look forward to reading more by this author.

Outside Perspective

3.5 Stars Rounded up

I really enjoyed Naomi’s perspective coming to small town Nebraska from the big city. The book highlighted both the best and worst. I also liked the twist at the end.

Light, Engaging and Authentic Fiction

As a woman who lived in Japan for 20+ years, the storyline was both plausible and enjoyable, junping between Tokyo, Shizuoka and Nebraska. Peppered with Japanese words and scenes in Tokyo, those who have lived there will feel nazukashi! The performance was good, though the Nebraska accent became a little too much at times. It was a well written, light narrative with a few unexpected twists. Be aware that there is some mature sexual content though. There were so many insights that I thought I might suggest it to my teen daughter until I came across those graphic bits. Though I was disappointed, it is the author’s right to include what she feels appropriate. It just means that the audience. should be prepared. It was definitely a page turner/ binge listen!

A Heartwarming Journey of Self-Discovery in a Foreign Land

This is the second book by Diane Nagatomo that I've listened to, and I greatly enjoyed it. Ms. Nagatomo has masterfully applied her knowledge and experience of life in Japan and rural America to craft characters and stories that are both believable and engaging. Similar to the theme of her first book, "The Butterfly Cafe," the heroine in this one is pushed by circumstances to find herself and grow. Community and friends support and help her in her quest to create a new life in a land completely foreign to her. Towards the end, there's even a touch of suspense that makes the story even more compelling. All in all, this was a very enjoyable audiobook, and I'm looking forward to Ms. Nagatomo's next work.

Finding Naomi

Loved the story of Naomi life in Japan and Nebraska.. happy ending..great love story ❤️