Our Thursday series features must-read books from each branch of the art bookshop NADiff. This week's book is "Afterword" by Fukase Masahisa. It's introduced by the flagship store, NADiff Apartment (1-18-4 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 1F NADiff A/P/A/R/T).

■ "Afterword" by Fukase Masahisa

Fukase Masahisa is a photographer who continued to examine himself through photography. This book is comprised of photographs used in the afterword "Sasuke's Diary" at the end of "Sasuke!! My Dear Cat," published by Seinen Shokan in 1978. This is Fukase Masahisa's second cat photo book, following "Wonderful Days," published by Roshin Books in 2015, before his death in 2012. "Sasuke" was a small cat introduced to Fukase by his friend, photographer Yutaka Takanashi, and he adopted him. He named him "Sasuke" after the ninja Sarutobi Sasuke, as his hopping around the house reminded him of the cat. However, the first Sasuke disappeared after about 10 days. Later, a woman who saw missing person posters he had put up around his house brought home a cat that looked similar, but it was a completely different cat, to Fukase's disappointment. However, Fukase, who has a soft spot for cats, decided to adopt the cat. Thus, "Second Sasuke" was born. Through the adorable photos of Sasuke, whom Fukase doted on and carried with him everywhere, the depth of Fukase's affection for Sasuke is palpable. The elegant cover, featuring a fluffy cat fur and an embossed Sasuke design, makes this a heartwarming book that will have you wanting to embrace Sasuke. This masterpiece of a photo book is perfect not only for yourself, but also as a gift for someone special.

[Book information]
"Afterword"
Photography: Fukase Masahisa
Design: Kato Katsuya
Publisher: roshin books
Specifications: Hardcover / 104 pages / 80 black and white illustrations
Size: 210 x 231 x 18 mm
Number of copies: First edition 900
Language: Japanese, English
Release date: November 15, 2016
Price: 4,500 yen