by Yoko Ogawa
Published 2009
He is a brilliant maths Professor with a peculiar problem - ever since a traumatic head injury, he has lived with only eighty minutes of short-term memory. She is an astute young Housekeeper, with a ten-year-old son, who is hired to care for him. Each morning, the Professor and the Housekeeper are introduced to one another. The Professor may not remember what he had for breakfast, but his mind is still alive with elegant mathematical equations from the past. He devises clever maths riddles - based on her shoe size or her birthday - and the numbers reveal a poetic world to both the Housekeeper and her son. With each new equation, the three lost souls forge an affection more mysterious than imaginary numbers, and a bond that runs deeper than memory. 'This is one of those books written in such lucid, unpretentious language that reading it is like looking into a deep pool of clear water...Dive into Yoko Ogawa's world and you find yourself tugged by forces more felt than seen' New York Times VINTAGE JAPANESE CLASSICS - five masterpieces of Japanese fiction in gorgeous new gift editions.
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Top voices for narrating this book
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Calm
“This voice offers an intimate and intelligent tone, with measured pacing that perfectly suits a reflective and poetic literary narration, inviting deep contemplation.”
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Calm
“Solenne's warm, velvety texture and soothing low register create an intimate, fireside-like experience, ideal for the gentle, reflective quality required for this role.”
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Calm
“Gabriela brings a grounded presence and emotional depth, with a smooth, steady delivery that feels reassuring and trustworthy, aligning with the story's gentle nature.”
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Calm
“The voice features mature authenticity and clear articulation, delivering a calm and articulate tone that supports the narrator's observant and poetic disposition.”
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Calm
“Anna's sweet and inspirational quality, coupled with a gentle and soothing cadence, offers an inviting tone suitable for the intimate narrative style.”
For listeners: use the Best Narrator voice above in ElevenReader or Fish Audio. Character casting is for authors producing audiobooks with studio tools.
An astute and gentle young woman, observant and caring, who develops a deep bond with the Professor and her son.
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Pleasant
“Nikki’s pure, fresh, and angelic tone beautifully captures the gentle, innocent aspect of a young, caring housekeeper, providing warmth and clear expression.”
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Calm
“This voice, with its friendly, calm, and conversational tone, perfectly embodies the approachable and observant nature of the housekeeper, making her instantly relatable.”
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Pleasant
“Lola’s rich, well-enunciated voice, fitting an age range of 20s to middle-age, provides the clear and articulate presence of an astute and observant young woman.”
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Professional
“Syd's natural and conversational energy, stemming from a voice in her 30s, offers an approachable and caring portrayal of the protagonist, blending professionalism with warmth.”
American · Middle Aged · Female · Narrative Story · Serious
“This smooth, natural-sounding voice from a woman in her 30s-40s brings a genuine warmth and professionalism that aligns with the housekeeper's gentle and supportive character.”