Butter by Asako Yuzuki

Butter by Asako Yuzuki (translated by Polly Barton)

All I can say is this book demands to be picked off the shelf at your local library or bookstore. With its bright yellow cover and the intriguing tagline “a novel of food and murder,” Butter by Asako Yuzuki immediately caught my attention.

I first stumbled upon it at Toppings Bookshop, an unassuming gem in Edinburgh, Scotland, filled with autographed copies and special editions of every book imaginable. From that moment, Butter moved swiftly from my “Want to Read” list on Goodreads to “Currently Reading.”

Yuzuki takes us on a compelling journey through the eyes of a journalist investigating a gourmet chef convicted of murdering several of her lovers. As the story unfolds, it becomes more than just a crime narrative—it’s a layered exploration of self-discovery, gender norms, and societal expectations in Japan, subtly woven into every interaction.

Between interviews and introspection, the main character’s relationship with food transforms. She begins to see it not merely as sustenance, but as a source of emotion, memory, and joy. Even something as simple as a bowl of perfectly cooked rice with a pad of butter (never margarine) becomes a symbol of comfort and meaning.

For murder mystery fans like me, Butter offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s not just about “whodunit”—it’s about why and how people connect, consume, and cope. Originally published in Japan eight years ago, the novel has since made its way to the UK and now the US, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a story that resonates across cultures and continents.

So, if it’s found its way to you, maybe it’s meant to be. The least you can do is enjoy the read.