Robin Gerster, Legless in Ginza: Orientating Japan. Melbourne University Press, Melbourne, 1999
A 'fascinating account of modern Japan. Gerster has a sharp eye for the unusual and the absurd (some of his observations and stories are hilarious), the familiar and the strange If you are contemplating visiting Japan, the book is well worth reading. If you are contemplating visiting some other country, then Legless in Ginza is a fine introduction to the art of overseas travel' (Terry Hearn, Otago Daily Times, 17 November 1999)
For anyone interested 'in an enjoyable, smartly constructed contemporary snapshot of Japan through one Australian's eyes, Robin Gerster's Legless in Ginza is highly recommended.' (Bryn Somerville, The Press, New Zealand, 6 November 1999)
Gerster's recall of two years teaching at Tokyo University is saturated with insights ' (Tony Maniaty, The Australian, 2 October 1999)
'Gerster has a very readable style and, although he has formed an obvious bond with Japan, the book is no panegyric What appeals most about this work is Gerster's lack of pompousness-he's generous in his willingness to send up his own shortcomings and the text is illuminated by many delightful moments it's an entertaining read' (Susan Kurosawa, Australian Book Review, December 1999/January 2000)
'What foreigner in Japan has not felt the same way as Robin Gerster, wandering pachinko parlor-lined streets, maybe after a fervent night of drinking, dazzled by a never-ending stream of lights, exhausted, lost,"legless", and made to wonder, as Gerster does, "what strange and unaccountable fancy has moved me to this place?"' (Ryan Nakashima, Japan Times, 9 November 1999)