This nonfiction book depicts a truly eventful life story, encompassing bullying, delinquency, judo, acceptance into Keio University, and entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. Readers have praised it, saying things like, “Her overwhelming drive is inspiring,” and “Her unwavering strength in the face of betrayal is deeply moving.”
📘 Synopsis
This autobiographical nonfiction book chronicles the life of Eriko Yamaguchi and her journey to founding the developing country-based brand “Motherhouse.” Elementary School: Almost dropped out due to bullying
She was subjected to insidious bullying, pushing her to the brink of not being able to attend school. Junior High School: Turned to delinquency, but found a turning point with judo
Seeking a place to belong, she immersed herself in judo and joined a prestigious boys’ judo school. She placed 7th in the All Japan Junior Championships. High School: From a 40偏差値 (deviation score) to acceptance into Keio University in 3 months
She studied intensely, believing “I can do more,” and entered Keio University.
She was shocked by the reality that “nobody wants to go to developing countries” during an internship at an international organization. Age 23: Traveled alone to Bangladesh, one of Asia’s poorest countries.
Facing the harsh reality of corruption, bribery, and inequality, she discovered the potential of jute (hemp) material. Entrepreneurship: Founded Motherhouse.
Despite numerous setbacks, including betrayal by factories and financial difficulties, she began making bags with local artisans.
Sales started with cold-calling to Tokyu Hands in Japan. Brand Growth:
Expanded stores to Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore.
💬 Impressions:
The following three points were particularly memorable:
- Shocked by her overwhelming drive and unwavering spirit, many commented, “Does someone like this really exist?”
Her resilience in the face of betrayal garnered much respect. - A catalyst for re-examining one’s privileged circumstances. Many readers realized how fortunate Japan is after learning about the poverty and corruption in Bangladesh.
- Gained courage to take on challenges. Many commented, “My own problems seemed small,” and “I felt I could move forward.”
It enjoys particularly strong support from young working professionals and students.
What makes this book special is that it’s not simply a “success story,”
it’s a story of people who move forward despite their weaknesses. The negative starting points of bullying and delinquency, the betrayal and despair in developing countries, and yet the unwavering determination to question one’s own mission—these are all deeply moving for readers. Furthermore, Yamaguchi adheres to the philosophy of growing together through equal economic activity, rather than simply “helping developing countries out of pity.”
This perspective is also important because it challenges conventional values regarding “aid.”
