Party Hardy, Daddy & Mommy!

Posted on February 18, 2015 by MThomas

This past week marked the end of the academic year in Japan (yes, the year runs from April to February, with a short break for summer in August).

The end of year comes with grades, teacher evaluations, syllabi corrections and book ordering…and farewell parties. Two of my colleagues left for greener pastures (i.e., they got tenured positions), so everybody in my department got together last night to fête and shower them with parting gifts. And naturally to gripe, commiserate, regale, story tell, and generally remind ourselves why we like to work together. Continue reading →

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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 the sales of questionable material online both at Amazon Japan and Rakuten as well as their lack of responsiveness to complaints.

Now that the police are involved, I feel justified in repeating “WE TOLD YOU SO, AMAZON.” Clean this filth out, once and for all.

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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 books has expressed interest in Taking Leave. We’re ironing out the details, but it looks like the goal is to start production in May, with an aim to release both print and ebook versions before the annual JALT Conference in November.

Two endorsements already, one from a gender studies expert and one from a former lieutenant governor in Japan. And naturally, all reviews and comments from other interested colleagues, parents, workers and families both at home and abroad are welcome!

Here’s another cover idea. No idea if this will be the final or not, but that’s also under negotiation!

TL-cover-FRONT

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