Pain & Parasols is Anne Crescini's second in a series of essays about life in Japan. In it, she explores various aspects of Japanese culture that she both admires and finds perplexing. The theme of many of her writings is continued in this book; namely, how does one respect the culture in which she is guest while remaining true to her own convictions and identity.

Through exploring serious issues such as medical care and education, and much lighter ones like melon-flavored Kit Kats and donut sundaes, Anne provides balanced insights into the worldview of the Japanese people, and how that worldview influences all aspects of daily life and thinking.