Irma Sless-Kitain’s book collection reflects her experience in publishing and time spent abroad (two years in Bangkok, eight in Japan). And an abiding love of comics. And cats.
Her shelf of pocket-size editions from Japanese publisher Kodansha includes English translations of books by Haruki Murakami, including two never released in the States (“Pinball, 1973” and “Hear the Wind Sing”).
“(Murakami) doesn’t like these translations,” says Sless-Kitain, a manuscript editor at University of Chicago Press. “But I prefer them. They have more feeling.”
Other diminutive editions include the seminal photo books “Tokyo Style” and “Universe for Rent,” by Kyoichi Tsuzuki, offering an authentic glimpse of urban apartment living.
“Japanese publishers across the board publish books in this ‘A6’ size,” Sless-Kitain says. “(On train commutes), they’re awesome. The size is considerate not only of the reader, but the people around the reader.”
More Top Picks Best Vinyl Cutting Machines For Crafters
Another highlight of her collection: a recent edition of “Alice in Wonderland,” beautifully illustrated by contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama (the so-called ‘princess of polka dots’), featuring intricately patterned drawings and expressive typography. In fact, Sless-Kitain’s entire library is dotted with visually interesting books.