Confessions by Kanae Minato, translated by Stephen Snyder, is an unsettling psychological thriller that keeps readers on edge. Praised for its compelling narrative and dark twists, the novel’s portrayal of vengeance and moral ambiguity captivates. Some critics find the plot contrived and characters lacking depth, but its chilling impact is undeniable.

A reader who would enjoy Confessions by Kanae Minato and translated by Stephen Snyder is drawn to psychological thrillers with dark, twisty narratives and morally complex characters. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train will appreciate the novel's chilling plot and gripping suspense.

Confessions by Kanae Minato, translated by Stephen Snyder, follows middle school teacher Yūko Moriguchi as she exacts vengeance on two students responsible for her daughter's death, intertwining multiple perspectives and formats to delve into themes of blame, revenge, and the ramifications of one's actions. The story includes depictions of extreme bullying, child abuse, murder, mental health crises, a bombing, and murder-suicide.

Dark / Mysterious / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Emotional

- Confessions was originally published in 2008 in Japan under the title “Kokuhaku,” which translates to “Confession” in English, highlighting its focus on personal revelations and hidden emotions.
- The novel won the prestigious Yomiuri Prize for Literature in 2009, underscoring its critical acclaim and significance in contemporary Japanese literature.
- Stephen Snyder's English translation of Confessions, released in 2014, played a vital role in bringing Kanae Minato’s work to an international audience, enhancing her global recognition as an author.

Kanae Minato

Transl. Stephen Snyder

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Confessions reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Confessions | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Confessions and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Confessions Summary and Study Guide

Background

Confessions Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-2

Confessions Chapters 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 3-4

Confessions Chapters 3-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-6

Confessions Chapters 5-6 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Confessions Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Confessions Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Confessions Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Confessions Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Confessions Essay Topics

Confessions

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Confessions?

Reading Age

Book Details