Yumi Hotta's book, "_7," is an enthralling and gripping tale set in the world of professional go, a traditional board game. The story revolves around a young prodigy named Hikaru Shindo who stumbles upon a haunted go board that houses the spirit of a master player called Fujiwara-no-Sai. As Hikaru becomes possessed by Sai's spirit, he embarks on a journey to become a top-ranked go player while facing personal obstacles and evolving as an individual.
Hotta's writing style is captivating, drawing readers into the world of go and introducing them to its rules, strategies, and intricacies. With each chapter, the narrative delves deeper into the game, making it accessible even to those who are unfamiliar with go. The character development of Hikaru is skillfully executed, as readers witness his transformation from a carefree and somewhat indifferent teenager into a passionate and determined player. This growth extends beyond Hikaru alone, as other characters undergo their own arcs, contributing depth and richness to the story.
One of the standout qualities of "_7" is Hotta's ability to create suspense and tension during the intense go matches. The strategic moves, psychological battles, and emotional investment of the characters make these matches highly engaging and keep readers on the edge of their seats. Additionally, Hotta seamlessly incorporates themes of friendship, rivalry, mentorship, and self-discovery, adding complexity and relatability to the narrative.
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Moreover, the inclusion of historical and cultural references enhances the authenticity of the story, providing readers with a glimpse into the world of go. Hotta interweaves these elements seamlessly into the plot, deepening readers' understanding and appreciation for the game and its significance.
In conclusion, "_7" by Yumi Hotta is a skillfully crafted book that combines an intriguing plot, well-rounded characters, and an exploration of the world of professional go. It is a must-read for go enthusiasts and anyone seeking a captivating and thought-provoking story of personal growth, determination, and the pursuit of excellence.
What are readers saying?
Yumi Hotta's book "7.0" has generated a range of responses from readers, with varying opinions on its merits. Some readers have praised Hotta's ability to captivate them in the competitive world of Go, while others have voiced their disappointment with the book's limited character development and slow pacing.
Many readers have found themselves engrossed in Hotta's writing style, which effectively immerses them in the intricacies of the game of Go. They have appreciated the engaging plot and the detailed explanations of the players' strategies. The book has been lauded for its ability to bring the game to life and make it accessible even to those unfamiliar with it.
However, there is a group of reviewers who have expressed their dissatisfaction with the underdeveloped characters in "7.0". They have expressed their belief that these characters lack depth and dimension, making it difficult for readers to fully connect with them. Additionally, some readers have found the pacing to be sluggish, with the story progressing at a leisurely pace that fails to sustain their interest.
Moreover, some readers have observed a sense of repetition in Hotta's storytelling. They have noted that certain themes and plot elements are repeated excessively throughout the book, leading to weariness and detracting from their overall enjoyment.
On a more positive note, many readers have commended the cultural insight that "7.0" offers. They have found the portrayal of Go and the Japanese setting to be captivating, as it adds an additional layer of authenticity and depth to the story.
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