Reviews

The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami

bbrassfield's review against another edition

5.0

Murakami's best. A true masterpiece. Nothing lags in this sprawling novel and the ending is superb, even better than Kafka and that is saying something. I don't know of another living writer who can match Murakami for imagination and skillful prose. You won't be able to put this novel down.

bruinuclafan's review against another edition

5.0

Well I finished this book in eight days. That's something. I'm not really sure what there is to say about this book, or what I possibly could say. Reading it was an experience. Sure, there is a story, but I think what Murakami accomplishes here is to make the reader feel with burning intensity. Especially the lows. His characters are vivid and believable. And the use of various points of view--letters, newspaper articles, instant messaging--is enchanting. In the end, I wouldn't say this was my favorite of Murakami's books, but I think it is a masterpiece.

sarahoo's review against another edition

h.

amyharvv's review against another edition

challenging dark emotional informative mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I've never felt this at peace finishing a Murakami novel. I have so many questions that won't receive answers, but I am satisfied with what wonderful morsels I was given. A book I'd love to dissect and pick apart, but also one that I'd love to leave at the bottom of a dried up well - forever as it is in my mind right now. 

Disgustingly slow at times, but even the slow things are fascinating (just not my exact cup of tea).

lydzzz357's review against another edition

emotional funny mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

lorenzopat's review against another edition

medium-paced

2.5

abhishekjain's review against another edition

5.0

I don't know what is it about Murakami's novels. They are so vague with so unreal settings but they all make sense in the end.
How? How does he do it?
I just enjoyed every bit of it. Though I am not sure if I understood it.

Definitely a goodread.

jcoryv's review against another edition

5.0

One of the reviews on the cover says, "Dreamlike and compelling... Murakami is a genius." That pretty well sums it up.

In a way, this reminds me of Stephen King's Dark Tower books... multiple plot layers, multiple worlds, hidden meanings... but probably a better ending here.

I may have more to say about this later...?

jessiedev's review against another edition

5.0

This was the first Haruki Murakami book I ever read, and it shook me so hard that I couldn't see straight. In a good way.

lexruthor's review against another edition

dark mysterious reflective sad slow-paced

3.75