Testimonials - SATOKA SOTOME

Jumping the Long Rope

“What begins as a story about a team member leaving the company quickly evolves into a profound journey of self-discovery. Satoka explores the tension between simply belonging to a group and actually carving out your own path. It’s a powerful read that challenges the reader to look beyond output and efficiency, asking the hard question: are we living our own lives, or just fulfilling a role assigned to us?“

“I first heard about this book from my daughter, and the title and funny cover were what made me pick it up. As I read, I found myself really enjoying the way the atmosphere and feelings were described—the smell of somen, the colors of the Rainbow Road, and the rhythm the protagonist feels as she starts to free herself from her limits. Those details felt vivid and real to me. When I finished the book, I was still thinking about the characters. I wondered how Tobiko is living now, and what happened to her mother, father, and Tomine. It’s the kind of story that quietly stays with you.”

ー 60s | Male | Tokyo | Surgeon | Listening to and playing jazz

“Jumping the Long Rope reaffirmed choices I’ve made in my own life. Tobiko’s journey mirrored my own search for ikigai. At a time when external forces seemed to dictate my routine and direction, I realized something essential was missing. Finding the courage to break free was important — and I deeply related to Tobiko’s struggles in both her relationships and her career. Satoka has a great ability to capture those quiet yet powerful turning points that make us question and rediscover ourselves.“