Author Archives: MThomas

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About MThomas

Long ago, I gave up my high school dreams of becoming the next Carl Sagan and instead wound up working (in order) at McDonald's, a '60s-themed restaurant, a video rental store, a used bookstore, a computer seller, Kinko's, a Jewish newspaper company, and an HR firm. I eventually became a teacher of intercultural communication in Kyoto, where I vainly attempt to apply quantum mechanics to language teaching, practice martial arts and Zen Buddhism, and always keep one eye on the sky. And yes, I know my profile photo's backward. I just think it looks better this way.

Party Hardy, Daddy & Mommy!

Posted on February 18, 2015 by MThomas

There are lots of parties in Japan. Parties when people get hired. Parties when people retire. Parties when a sporting event is held. Parties when a building is officially opened. Parties to “forget the year,” and parties to start the new one. Even parties to celebrate the release of a new book. Continue reading →

Posted in entertainment, food, holidays | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

BREAKING NEWS: Amazon Japan offices raided

Posted on January 25, 2015 by MThomas

The Asahi Shinbun is reporting that on Friday, January 23, 2015, Japanese police raided the offices of Amazon Japan on suspicion of violating anti-pornography laws. This web site reported on the illegal sales of child abuse images back in October 2014, when decrying … Continue reading →

Posted in child abuse, child safety, Japan, Japanese law | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Working Cover

Posted on January 23, 2015 by MThomas

Quick update on the book: In the end, I’ve decided to go the indie route to self-publication. An update to the update! (2/16) It looks like I won’t be self-publishing this one after all. A small press that normally published ESL/EFL … Continue reading →

Posted in art, gender roles, Japan | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment