Takaya Honda received a Bachelor of Communications (Media Arts and Production) at UTS and is also a writer, director and producer. He is best known for his as Dr Tanaka on the long running Australian soap Neighbours. With a diploma in screen acting (Film and Television Institute) and a BFA in Music theatre (Victorian College of the Arts), Kaori has appeared as a series regular on the Australian soap, Neighbours in the role of Jasmine Udagawa. Other screen credits include appearing alongside Nazeem Hussain on his comedy skit show, Orange Is The New Brown and playing Tessa on NBC series, La Brea.
'An impressive debut novel … a standout … beautifully done. At the Foot of the Cherry Tree delivers both educational value and emotional impact. The connection to real-life individuals adds a wonderful dimension to the novel, reminding readers of the genuine struggles faced by these brave and resilient Australians.' -- Books+Publishing