"No Longer Human" (人間失格, Ningen Shikkaku) is a novel written by Osamu Dazai, a renowned Japanese author. While Dazai's character and life may be intriguing to you, "No Longer Human" is not considered appropriate for a 12-year-old due to its mature and complex themes.
The novel delves into dark and existential themes, exploring the struggles of the protagonist as he grapples with feelings of alienation, depression, and self-destructive behavior. The content includes discussions of mental health issues, despair, and nihilism, which might not be suitable for a young audience.
As an alternative, you can explore other works by Osamu Dazai that are more age-appropriate. For instance, his short stories like "Run, Melos!" (走れメロス, Hashire Merosu) are more suitable for a younger audience and can still provide insights into Dazai's writing style and personality.
Additionally, if you want to learn more about Osamu Dazai's life, there are biographical resources, documentaries, and articles available that can give you a better understanding of the author and his works without exposing you to the mature themes of "No Longer Human."
Remember, it's essential to read books and content that are suitable for your age and maturity level, as some themes may be emotionally challenging for younger readers. There are plenty of other literary works to explore that can offer meaningful insights into authors and their creations.