Spark (original title: 火花) is a 2015 novel written by Japanese comedian Naoki Matayoshi.[1] The story revolves around the career struggles of and relationship between two manzai comedians. The English version of the novel is translated by Alison Watts and published in 2020.[2][3] The novel won the 153rd Akutagawa Prize and was adapted as a Netflix original series which is accessible worldwide.
Author | Matayoshi, Naoki |
---|---|
Original title | 火花 |
Translator | Alison Watts |
Country | Japan |
Language | Japanese |
Genre | Novel |
Published | 05/03/2020 |
Publisher | Pushkin Press |
Pages | 160 |
ISBN | 9781782275909 |
Synopsis
Tokunaga is a young comedian struggling to make a name for himself when he is taken under the wing of Kamiya, who is either a crazy genius or perhaps just crazy. Kamiya's indestructible confidence inspires Tokunaga, but it also makes him doubt the limits of his own talent, and dedication to manzai comedy.[4]
Reception
Sales
As of February 2017, the Japanese version of the book has sold more than 2.53 million copies.[5]
Awards
- The 153rd Akutagawa Prize (2015)[6]
- The 28th Shogakukan DIME Trend Awards "Leisure and Entertainment Category" (2015)[7]
- Yahoo! Search Award 2015 Novel Award (2015)[8]
Television adaptation
A 10-episode web television adaptation, titled Hibana: Spark, premiered on Netflix as an original series on June 2, 2016.[9]