101 Unuseless Japanese Inventions: The Art of Chindogu

Strangely practical and utterly eccentric inventions for a life of ease-and hilarity. In Japan, inventor and visionary Kenji Kawakami is famous for his creation and tireless promotion of chindogu-the art of "the unuseless idea." This book features the best of his inventions: inspired devices designed to solve all the nagging problems of domestic life, including ones you may not have realized you have. Enter the realm of the almost useful, where you will find Duster Slippers for Cats (for feline assistance with tedious housework), the Full Body Umbrella (for day-long all-over dryness), the Fish Face Cover (helps get the fish cut up with minimum emotional trauma), and the Temporary Ladies' Room Converter (stake your claim to the facilities). Every item has been fabricated to the highest standards, fully tested by pioneering members of the Japanese public, and tastefully photographed. It is only a matter of time before Americans succumb to their charm, logic, and utility.

The author, Kenji Kawakami is well-known in Japan for his creation and tireless promotion of "chingdogu" -- the art of the "unuseless idea." This book features the best of his inventions, inspired devices designed to solve all the nagging problems of domestic life, including ones you may not have realized you have. Reading this book is like exploring an alternate universe in which the 19th century inventors who shaped our lives had far too much time on their hands, and far too many plastic molds in their factories. Hilarious!