Love these books. Kafka on the Shore is probably my favorite among his novels. But his short stories are extraordinary and mysterious as well. Too many to select a favorite.
I was introduced to Murakami through a literature course I took in undergrad; we read Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World. Later, in another class with the same professor, we read A Wild Sheep Chase, and I was off. I have devoured many of his books since, captivated as you describe here! I think my fav is Wind-Up Bird, though.
I LOVE magical realism in life and art, but had never heard about this author until very recently! His work sounds absolutely compelling and dreamy! I can’t wait to dive in!!! Thank you for this lovely newsletter about his work! Your writing is always so clear and concise! Reading your words often makes me feel like I am looking down into a river of crystal clear flowing water, admiring the way the light ripples off the stones on the bottom!!! Bravo!!! 👏 ⭐️🌈🙏👏💖💜
Thank you dear x
Love these books. Kafka on the Shore is probably my favorite among his novels. But his short stories are extraordinary and mysterious as well. Too many to select a favorite.
That’s probably my favourite too, along with Wind-up Bird. Love his short stories, The Strange Library is fantastic.
“The Shinagawa Monkey” stays in my head. All of the Men Without Women stories. And more.
Yes, so many to pick from from the short stories, though I feel After The Quake is perhaps the best collection.
I think my top selection of his main novels would be 1Q84 tied for first place with Wind Up Bird, followed by Kafka and then Norwegian Wood.
Good choices. Think I might try 1Q84 again next year.
Perfect thematic investigation of one of the BEST writers. 💜💜
A thousand thanks lovely 🥰
Agreed.
Possibly my favourite author of all time.
Might be setting up a Murakami Substack bookclub next year..
Oooh, interested, interested.
Will keep you in the loop!
One of mine too.
It’s been a while since I read his work. It may be time for a re-read. Thanks for the reminder and a great essay! 🧡
Might be setting up a Murakami Substack bookclub next year...
That sounds interesting :)
You’re so welcome 😀Planning to re-read a few of his books next year I think.
Wild Sheep Chase was my first book of his that I read, and I was hooked. I still often think about 1Q84, it was haunting.
I love your succinct essays and the idea that they’ve introduced people to things they might fall in love with.
Love both of those! It was Wind Up Bird Chronicle that for me hooked!
Aww thank you, you’re far too kind 💕
I think it’s time I re-read Wind Up Bird Chronicle 🫶
Go for it! I really enjoyed rereading it a few years ago 💕
One of my favourite authors and you captured his work perfectly. My favourite is Wild Sheep Chase.
Thank you for the lovely comment! Murakami is so so amazing. That’s probably my fave too. Can’t wait for his new book in a few months ☺️
I was introduced to Murakami through a literature course I took in undergrad; we read Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World. Later, in another class with the same professor, we read A Wild Sheep Chase, and I was off. I have devoured many of his books since, captivated as you describe here! I think my fav is Wind-Up Bird, though.
Aw nice! What a great introduction to Murakami. Love Wind-up bird also, definitely one of my favourites 👌🏽
I need to read more of his stuff. I loved After Dark, with its faux screenplay style, Lynchian tone, and allusions to Goddard.
Well I might be starting a Murakami book club next year...
Good to know!
Oh, thank you for reminding me to re-read Kafka on the Shore, my love. What. A. Book.
You’re so welcome and yes, what an amazing book! Maybe I should organise a Substack Murakami bookclub?
That’s a great idea!
Will think about it for sure 👌🏽
Beautiful essay, sweet friend💞
Thank you love x
Beautiful stuff, LRT. xo
Aww thanks 🤩
No one does magical realism quite like him. Kafka on the shore is unlike any book I e ever read
What a beautiful homage to a literary great, my dear!
I LOVE magical realism in life and art, but had never heard about this author until very recently! His work sounds absolutely compelling and dreamy! I can’t wait to dive in!!! Thank you for this lovely newsletter about his work! Your writing is always so clear and concise! Reading your words often makes me feel like I am looking down into a river of crystal clear flowing water, admiring the way the light ripples off the stones on the bottom!!! Bravo!!! 👏 ⭐️🌈🙏👏💖💜