The Michiko Mystique

Never mind that Steve Paulson’s profile for the Independent on Sunday bears more than a passing resemblance to one from a few years ago in a major US-based magazine, but it does offer the reading public a good overview of the most Feared Book Critic in America:

Michiko’s toughness has turned her into a cultural icon unlike any

other book critic. In fact, her name figured prominently in one episode

of Sex in the City. When Carrie Bradshaw publishes a new book, she’s

“terrified” of an upcoming Kakutani review.

Despite her public prominence, though, Kakutani is notoriously

reclusive. She does not hobnob with writers or hang out on the literary

circuit. She will not grant interviews. Even publishing industry

veterans have rarely seen her. A rumour that she once dated Woody Allen

has obstinately remained just that, a rumour. One long-time book

publicist joked: “We know more about J D Salinger.” And, as with

Salinger, rumours chase after Kakutani – about her dates and what she’s

really like.

Reclusive? Maybe, but I think smart is a much better adjective. It’s damn hard to eviscerate a book if you know the author in question, and while Kakutani’s reviews can sometimes resemble grand opera, they are hardly ever personal — they only feel that way to the author in question.

Though I do wish whoever started this project hadn’t abandoned it so soon. It sure seems kind of cool.