My Year of Meats by Ruth Ozeki follows Jane Takagi-Little, a Japanese American documentarian who works on a TV series called My American Wife!, featuring American wives cooking meat-based dishes. Akiko Ueno in Japan is forced by her abusive husband John to engage with the show. Jane's quest for authentic narratives exposes the meat industry’s dark side, leading her to a breakthrough in her career. The novel explores the complexities of the American meat industry, global capitalism, gender dynamics, and artmaking. The book contains graphic depictions of domestic violence and sexual violence.

Ruth Ozeki's My Year of Meats is praised for its sharp, multi-layered narrative and engaging characters, offering a compelling critique of the meat industry and media. Critics commend its blend of humor and serious themes, though some find its pacing uneven. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that stimulates both emotional and intellectual engagement.

Readers who appreciate My Year of Meats by Ruth Ozeki are likely fans of multicultural narratives, social activism, and witty, thought-provoking prose. Similar audiences would enjoy Barbara Kingsolver's The Poisonwood Bible and Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things for their exploration of cultural collisions and personal transformations.

Informative / Emotional / Mysterious / Contemplative / Challenging

- My Year of Meats was Ruth Ozeki's debut novel, published in 1998, and it explores themes of cross-cultural confrontation and consumerism.
- The novel was inspired by Ozeki's personal experiences working in the media industry and traveling between the United States and Japan.
- My Year of Meats received the Kiriyama Prize in 1998, an award that recognizes outstanding books about the Pacific Rim and South Asia.

**Jane Takagi-Little**  
A tall, vibrant daughter of a Japanese mother and Minnesotan father with aspirations in documentary filmmaking. She navigates personal and professional challenges while working on a television show.

**Suzie Flowers**  
An American wife featured on the television show who appears joyful but is dealing with inner sadness and loneliness.

**Akiko Ueno**  
A timid and unhappy woman in an abusive marriage, initially struggling with health issues but gradually gaining self-confidence and independence.

**Joichi "John" Ueno**  
An abusive husband focused on American culture who causes difficulties for both his wife, Akiko, and Jane, impacting their work and lives.

**Sloan**  
A traveling musician from Chicago involved romantically with Jane, supporting her amid their evolving relationship.

**Kato**  
Jane’s former boss who helps her secure a position on the television show, offering support while enforcing rules.

**Jane’s Mother**  
A practical and sometimes blunt woman who shows care for Jane through actions rather than words.

**Mr. Oda**  
A director on the television show described as heartless and selfish in his approach.

**Oh**  
The quiet soundman on Jane’s crew, noted for his love of children and animals and his support for Jane.

**Suzuki**  
Jane's cameraman who, despite vices, shows considerable care and support towards her.

**Dyann and Lara**  
An interracial lesbian couple known for their loving nature and support for Jane and Akiko, while being active in their community.

**John Dunn**  
The elderly husband of one of the American wives, characterized by ignorance yet genuine concern for others' well-being.

**Bunny Dunn**  
A Texan wife and mother who is open and willing to help others, allowing her family to be part of Jane’s filming.

**Rosie Dunn**  
Bunny and John Dunn’s young daughter who is affected by chemicals on the family feedlot, with a notable attachment to her uncle.

**Gale Dunn**  
Rosie’s uncle and the owner of the feedlot where Rosie plays, involved in harmful activities and abusive behavior.

**Tomoko**  
A caring nurse who observes signs of abuse in Akiko and offers assistance for her situation.

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