I went ahead and picked up what ended up being the first James Bond book I've ever read in "You Only Live Twice." I've seen some nice publications of these books and was curious if I would like them. I grabbed my copy on eBay for almost nothing and reasoned I could always get a nicer copy if it resonated with me. Although the book was fun in its own way, it was more than a little ridiculous on several occasions. It had some good scenes and a little bit of tension at times, but it's not really my kind of read.
I wanted to like it. I really did. I've liked some of the James Bond films I've seen. The stories are fun enough but I like more subtlety in my books. Perhaps they make better Bond films than the books, but I'll never know because I don't expect to read another one. I also don't think I'll watch the 1967 film based on this book. The suspension of disbelief required was too egregious for me. And I read fantasy books, sci-fi, and all kinds of outlandish things.
Anyway, "You Only Live Twice" is about a nefarious villain who moves to Japan, buys an old castle, and fills it up with deadly plants and vermin. The idea was to provide an outlet for people to commit suicide more easily. Bond ends up getting wrapped up in it and is tasked with assassinating the villain, using ninjitsu techniques and weapons. The title alludes to a haiku presented in the book about only living when you're born and then a second time when you face death.
He pulls it off and the castle explodes, leaving Bond amnesiac and taken to a secluded island of shell gatherers. The book includes an obituary for Bond as he was presumed killed (though confirmed to be successful in his last mission). The book portrays Bond's exposure and integration with Japanese society and culture. It's a short book and it only hits the highlights, but it is kind of interesting to watch someone learn about Japan.
Despite not enjoying the book too much, I did get some entertainment out of it and am glad that I gave the series a try. I had selected this Bond book as my first read of the series due to noticing someone who was liquidating their collection of books on eBay (or, perhaps, simply thinning it out) had like a dozen copies of this same book. I was intrigued. I must say I still am. I have been known to get multiple copies of the same book before but never more than three or so. That seller must have truly adored this book. My curiosity was piqued and I added it to my to-read list for down the road. Literally a couple years later or so I got to it.
I'm glad to have read the book though I don't think I'll invest time in reading any other entries in the series. It just isn't for me, but at least I know that now firsthand. There's something to be said for speaking from experience.
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