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cehknight's review against another edition
dark
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.0
I was very surprised upon reading that this book is as popular as it is. This probably isn't an original point to make, but I got the sense that Murakami didn't run this book past any real-life women. I didn't feel anything towards the female (or male) characters, because they felt so hollow. This book is definitely a perspective of women through the male gaze, and it worries me that men would read this book and think it was indicative of a 'cool' way to view women. The narrative arc was good, I enjoyed the temporal structure most of all, but that's where my enjoyment ended. It was an easy read, however, and I hope upon reading more of Murakami's works that I find them easier to relate to. PSA: women don't wash their bras every night. It damages them. Ask any woman and she'll tell you.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexism, Suicide, Toxic relationship, and Suicide attempt
Moderate: Death, Emotional abuse, Mental illness, Dementia, and Death of parent
Minor: Adult/minor relationship and Medical content
emzilia's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
relaxing
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Lyrical, haunting. A reflection on grief and life and love.
“After 18 would come 19, and after 19, 18 of course. But she turned 20. And in the autumn, I would do the same. Only the dead stay 17 forever.”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Mental illness, Self harm, Sexual content, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Toxic relationship, and Grief
Moderate: Rape, Terminal illness, and Medical content
Minor: Blood
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