I read this book for the Japanese Literature Challenge and the Notable Book Challenge. This is my first Murakami. I wasn’t sure what to expect, and even though I am only rating this a 3.5, I will definitely read more by this author. I found his writing style to be very unique.
The book covers the encounters of several “night people” on one particular evening from 11:56 pm to 6:52 am. All of the characters in the book have some interconnection. I most enjoyed the story of the two sisters, Eri and Mari. One of them can’t sleep and the other one won’t wake up. I also enjoyed the philosophical discussions between Mari and Takahashi. I didn’t really get what was going on with the TV/white noise thing, but it was interesting. Does anyone have a favorite Murakami? Although I might not get to another one of his until next year, I’d like to read more.
2004 [2007 in U.S.], 191 pp.
Rating: 
Murakami scares me. I’m pretty sure I woudn”t get it. I know some people love him, but like I said, it scares me.
I agree with raidergirl3. Everything I’ve read about Murakami says it’s over my head. The reviews also say he writes beautifully but I’m just not a deep thinker.
Raidergirl and Framed, I was a little scared too, but I’m glad I started with this one because it was short. It gives me a little confidence now that I’ll be interested in his longer works.
I read it, it was ok, but I didn’t get it. I like the beginning, and the middle, but the end? meh. Maybe I was biased going in not to like it. I found the story with the sister that wouldn’t wake up very confusing. It seemed like it would make a good arthouse movie.
Elizabeth, I think so, too. I’d love to see (at least that part) in a movie.
For those afraid of Murakami, I would suggest starting with Norwegian Wood. It’s my favorite and is also one of his most straight forward novels.
The things about Muramaki is that the writing is so beautiful, the plot is almost secondary, and he’s worth reading for the reading journey alone.
But if you like books with clean endings, where most things get resolved, and the plot ties up nicely, you can can skip him.
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