Murakami - Kafka on the Shore

This was the second novel by Murakami that fell on my hands. Actually, there was nothing accidental in that I chose to read this book. After reading one of Murakami's newer novels "Sputnik Sweetheart" I was quite impressed by how Murakami was able to paint such a mysterious story line that felt very intimate and distant at the same time. I went to the library to aiming to get my hands on Murakami's latest novel to be translated to Finnish. Unfortunately, all copies of "Norwegian Wood" were taken so I decided to give "Kafka on the Shore" a try.

Kafka on the Shore cover

This book was just amazing. The two story lines intertwine in the most wonderful manner. The book is at the same time very open, but leaves some key details untold and there is this some mysterious thing leave the characters somewhat distant, but that's good. Then there are just some silly scenes in the book that make it even more charming. Was Colonel Sanders Murakami who intervenes to get the story back on  track?

Compared to "Sputnik Sweetheart" this book it's in a league of its own. If you want to read something by Murakami give this one a read.

You can listen to the Archduke trio online at the Petrucci Music Library. It is actually a very nice piece of music and very approachable. Give it a listen.

http://imslp.org/wiki/Piano_Trio_in_B-flat_major,_Op.97_%28Beethoven,_Ludwig_van%29

Murakami - Sputnik Sweetheart

During the weekend I finished reading Haruki Murakami's book "Sputnik Sweetheart". In the back of Murakami was compared to the likes of Paul Auster. That is a very good comparison. Having read several books by Auster I can say that is a very good comparison. However, I feel that Murakami writes less but says more than Auster. Also, at least this book was, more mystical compared to Auster.

The story was something different. First I thought that the story was rather dull and ordinary but as I read on I became impressed by his story telling skills. Somehow he appears to be telling everything but leaves the crucial bit behind a curtain. This strange love story was very appealing. I recognised the same kind of feelings of being alone and lost as the characters in the book had. I think rarely have I read a book that raises this kind of intimate and sensitive feelings in me.

I must read another book by Murakami before I can say if I like his writing. The next one I will read will probably be "Norwegian wood" if I can get myself a copy.