Next BJA Friendship Committee (FCOM) Book Club

Calling all book lovers! Join us for the next BJA FCOM Book Club gathering!

Are you a book-lover interested in exploring and chatting about modern Japanese lit in a relaxed and welcoming environment? Then come join the next yearly book club hosted by the BJA Friendship Committee on June 14.

This time, we'll discuss Memory Police by Yoko Ogawa (「密やかな結晶コンビニ人間」小川洋子), a dystopian novel about a novelist on an island where objects and eventually those who remember are disappearing, exploring the themes of the trauma of loss and the power of memory. This book has been translated into English, Dutch, French, etc., so feel free to read the book in whatever language you prefer. The original Japanese version of this book is suitable for anyone with a JLPT N2/N1 or advanced level of Japanese for any Japanese learners who want to challenge themselves. This event is, of course, open to anyone who was unable to finish the book.

The next Book Club meeting will take place on Sunday, June 14, from 14:00 to 16:00, at Het Goudblommeke in Papier (La Fleur en Papier doré)—a historic Brussels tavern with deep artistic roots.

Located at 53–55, rue des Alexiens/Cellebroersstraat, this charming venue has long served as a gathering place for artists, writers, and creatives, including figures from the surrealist movement like René Magritte. We'll be meeting in a separate private room to keep things cozy and conducive to discussion.

If you are interested in joining, please let us know by replying to bja.fc.organiser@gmail.com. You’re welcome to join even if you don’t finish the book—just come for the good conversation and company!

Save the date! We can’t wait to dive into this story and share a memorable afternoon with you!