Idol brænder

The novel that ignited the Japanese publishing scene: a contemporary Catcher in the Rye exploring toxic fandom, social media, and alienation.

Akari, a high school junior, is obsessed with J-Pop idol Masaki Ueno from the popular group Maza Maza. She devotes her blog to him and spends hours consuming every detail of his life, believing he is her savior—despite never having met him.

When rumors arise about Masaki assaulting a female fan, social media erupts. Akari feverishly tracks the scandal and shares updates on her blog, drawing a large readership. However, the knowledgeable persona she presents online starkly contrasts with her socially awkward reality. As Masaki’s troubles escalate, they threaten to unravel Akari’s life, yet she clings to her idol, convinced he’s the only one who understands her.

Idol, Burning is a gripping novel about fame, obsession, and disillusionment, shining a fierce light on fandom, the pop idol industry, and the emotional void that follows an idol’s fall from grace.