"Ghosts of the Tsunami" is a non-fiction book by British journalist Richard Lloyd Parry. The book tells the story of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan, which caused widespread devastation and the loss of over 15,000 lives.
The book focuses on the town of Okawa, where over 70 children were killed when their elementary school was engulfed by the tsunami. Parry interviewed survivors of the disaster, including parents who lost their children, and explores the psychological impact of the tragedy on the town's residents.
Parry also investigates the cultural and political factors that contributed to the disaster, including the construction of a nuclear power plant in the region and the failure of government officials to adequately prepare for a tsunami of this scale.
Through his vivid and sensitive writing, Parry explores the themes of grief, trauma, and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. He also offers a compelling critique of Japan's societal values and its response to the disaster.
"Ghosts of the Tsunami" was widely praised upon its publication for its powerful storytelling and its insights into the human experience of one of the deadliest natural disasters in history. It was shortlisted for several literary awards, including the Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction.