We Walk On Ash

Imagine witnessing the greatest devastation mankind had – at that time – ever known: America’s atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan. Now imagine, in the midst of such horrific firebombing with unspeakable disintegration and death, a father still mourning the loss of his wife and son under different circumstances, seeing the Shinto deity of fire, Kagutsuchi, laughing as hell spills onto the earth. Imagine once again the father, being tapped by Kagutsuchi’s sister, Suijin, to become transformed and embark on a mission to destroy her brother’s demons and save Japan.

In We Walk on Ash, we follow this unlikely human pair, under the direction of the Princess Blossom Of The Trees, to battle fire monsters bent on destruction and death. The father would become her samurai, his daughter would hone her bow and arrow skills, and together they would build their strength to confront Kagutsuchi and defeat him.

Through the transformation and for the duration of their mission, several questions plague them: Why had we been saved? How could we walk the path of faith when we didn’t believe? Was this our version of the light at the end of a dark tunnel? Were we just carbonized remains in our garden like so many others in Hiroshima?

Reviews

We Walk on Ash by Pablo Zaragoza intricately weaves a tapestry of folklore and fantasy within the somber backdrop of post-Hiroshima Japan. This Historical fantasy novel delves into the poignant journey of a grief-stricken father, transformed into a samurai by the deity Suijin, as he navigates through the remnants of a world engulfed in flames. His quest is one of redemption, driven by the need to save Japan from the wrath of Kagutsuchi, the fire deity, and to protect what remains of his family.

The narrative elegantly explores themes of grief, redemption, and faith, as Akimitsu, the protagonist, seeks solace and meaning amid the devastation. His resilience and determination shine as beacons of hope in a landscape marred by loss. His relationship with his daughter, a central pillar of the story, evolves into a deeper bond as they collectively confront and overcome their grief. Akimitsu’s journey is symbolic of a larger quest for redemption, not only for himself but for his nation. The novel deftly handles the themes of sacrifice and rebuilding, painting a vivid picture of the struggles and fortitude required to piece together a life—and a country—from the ashes of destruction. While the book offers an enlightening glimpse into Japanese history and culture, some readers might find the narrative’s structure and the use of Japanese terminology challenging. This aspect, however, does not detract from the book’s overall impact. Instead, it adds a layer of authenticity to the story, immersing the reader in the complexities of its setting. The recurring motif of resilience, a cornerstone of the narrative, is a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to endure and overcome even the most harrowing circumstances.

Pablo Zaragoza masterfully combines elements of folklore, fantasy, and historical drama to create a narrative that is as educational as it is emotionally resonant. While it presents challenges in its complexity and cultural specificity, the novel ultimately succeeds in drawing the reader into a deeply immersive world. It serves as a testament to the enduring themes of resilience, hope, and the unbreakable bonds of family. For those seeking a meaningful and thought-provoking read, We Walk on Ash offers a unique perspective on overcoming adversity and finding redemption amidst chaos.

Literary Titan Silver Book Award: February 2024