Where to Start Reading Haruki Murakami (5 Books)

[@alapandas6398]

I am currently reading Norwegian Wood and loving it. Although sometimes it becomes too depressing and make me more depressed than I am, his rhetorical detailed magical description of mundane events keeps me glued to the book.

[@crystalp7242]

I’m only just starting my second Murakami novel, “Kafka on the Shore”, and I managed to read six chapters and the intro in a single evening last night. I can’t wait to get back into it. My first Murakami novel was “Norwegian Wood”, which I read last year. I read it on the suggestion of a mutual on Instagram who is a huge fan of Murakami’s work. There’s a scene in the novel where Toru and Midori are at a hospital visiting her dying father, and if I remember correctly there’s a part where Midori leaves the room for a little while and Toru feeds her father some cucumber. It made me a bit weepy because it brought me back to memories of my mom’s final months in 2020 when she was in the final stages of Alzheimer’s and couldn’t even chew, much less feed herself. And I’d be at her bedside feeding her purées or oatmeal or helping her sip on juice or milk and she’d lock eyes with me. If you’ve ever had to be a caregiver to a sick or dying parent, you relate really strongly to that scene. Also: for both “Norwegian Wood” as well as “Kafka on the Shore” so far, I tend to go for reading music. The former, I’d have a lot of Beatles music and similar playing. So far for “Kafka” it’s been Duke Ellington and other jazz artists, but that could change the further I get into it. I have “1Q84” in my collection as well, and my guess is when I get to that it’ll be ‘80s alternative with some Prince thrown in…or it could be something completely different.

[@PraseenaPrabhakar]

❤

[@sinahmith]

I really recommend Murakamis "After Dark" it's not talked about as much but I really enjoyed reading it 😄

[@LizzaRob160]

I love that one! I also think it doesn’t suffer with the women writing issues as much as his other books.

[@andreasa8781]

Actually I believe it's one of his best novels

[@lafemmegvantsa8154]

after dark is my favourite Murakami book 🙌

[@kg828]

and it‘s also really short! and has somewhat of a happy end 😊

[@shrivatsankchari1729]

I'd second that actually personally I found it more enjoyable than the Kafka one

[@OMGmyFACE]

Dated a girl who had a copy of Wind-Up Bird on her and I was curious so I checked out a Barnes and Noble and saw he had a whole bunch and also had that "where do I start" dilemma. Just grabbed South of the Border, West of the Sun and fell in love with his style, been a fan for decades.

[@magnolianight2537]

I've found many lovely things because someone I have a crush on likes them. It's so nice when people propel us further into this wonderous world by simply existing. I wonder if, somewhere out there, there is a person who credits you with spurring them into a new fascination.

[@kittykat490]

I read Kafka on the Shore in highschool, we were given a list of novels to choose from to do a project on and I was intrigued by the Japanese author name, Kafka in the title since we'd read some Kafka stories earlier and I liked them a lot, and the fact that it was the only one on the list I didn't recognize/had never heard of before... and oh I loved it so much, I was shocked it was on the list and approved for highschoolers to read because it... is definitely weird... but I was so happy I chose it knowing so little. I haven't read any Murakami since but I've always been meaning to, I do still have my project on a flashdrive somewhere, I digitally made some really cool design-y posters based on it, and I've always wanted to reread it.

[@richardking3206]

I started, by chance, with Wind Up Bird and loved it. I also loved Kafka on the Shore and Wild Sheep Chase. Thanks for the overview. It was calm and thoughtful, and even if you can’t recall all the character names, it doesn’t matter. I’m not sure where to go next. Yes, he’s not too hot with female characters, but not awful. I’m also intrigued by another author you mention, Kobe Abbé(?), because I like weird stuff. I want a Murakami bingo sheet! Thanks for this.

[@svenf8947]

My first book of his was the short story collection Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman and while I feel like I didn't "understand" many of the stories in there I also feel like that wasn't necessary and that there was something weird and intriguing in them that kept me coming back for more. Now I just started 1Q84 and Kafka on the Shore is on my shelf waiting to be read. So my journey into his catalogue is still at a very early stage, but I'm already so invested in this author, it's crazy.

[@mizzcrazygal]

i love haruki murakami books. norwegian wood was my first ever haruki murakami book i read, it was sooooooo beautiful

[@rossgardner9412]

Nice to see props for “Wind Up Bird..” A fantastic book, I genuinely find the first few chapters really funny, the argument Toru has with his wife about food and toilet paper colours are weirdly similar to arguments I’ve had with my wife. It’s full of great characters, but standout for me is Lieutenant Mamiya and his story of Boris the Manskinner, it’s just good stuff all round.

[@wburris2007]

Norwegian Wood is the only Haruki Murakami that I have read. My plan is to read 1Q84 next, but I also have Killing Commendatore. Norwegian Wood was a great read.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I haven't read 1Q84 yet but Killing Commendatore is a fun read! Not perfect and a little too long but still a good time!

[@johnPaul-qn3dg]

Characters, HZ's characters always feel so real and somehow they form an image in your head, yet I never remember him giving descriptions of them, Joyce also could do this. My favourite so far was After Dark,

[@jisanhasnat6770]

I so love Kafka on the shore.

[@eshadi4740]

I'd really like to hear about your interpretation of Norwegian Wood!

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Yeah I'd love to do deeper dives into his novels actually, but I'll have to re-read them first. I probably will though!

[@ChrisHilgenberg]

I started with the Wind-Up Bird Chronicle and A Hard-boiled Wonderland and the End of the World. You are correct, much of what we know in English of his novels have been shortened/edited. For more details on this, I recommend the book 'Who we're reading when we read Murakami' which covers up to Wind-Up Bird Chronicle which talks about the editors and translators of his novels in English. For example, a lot was removed from A Hard-boiled Wonderland and the End of the World due to some stories being perhaps too alienating to new English speaking readers, and experienced quite a bit of editing (supposedly Murakami gave Jay Rubin permission to re-translate it in an unabridged form). I highly recommend it if you're curious about the Murakami phenomenon.

[@ChrisHilgenberg]

Jay Rubin, who has translated a few of his novels and short stories, has a book out about Japanese translation called 'Making Sense of Japanese'. If you are wanting to get into this space, I recommend it as well. Not Murakami related, but definitely demystifies some of the trickier grammar in Japanese.

[@leakypeach6250]

So I kinda wish that I found this video prior to my first foray into Murakami. I just started Hardboiled Wonderland and the End of the World.

[@championcitypeople7921]

I’m currently listening to 1Q84 and I have Norwegian wood and Kafka on the shore to read next. I think you should do a video that discusses more of the issues that Murakami has in his writing. I remember a book tuber who said she would never read a book of his because she didn’t go into details she just said the she didn’t like the way he writes women.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

That's actually a great idea. I originally did go into detail a bit more in this video but cut it for the sake of streamlining and timing. It was more a tangent than a focussed point. So, yes, I will do just that! Thanks for giving me the push.

[@championcitypeople7921]

@@WillowTalksBooks cool. Thanks

[@CLardPercussion]

Read 1q84. It’s life changing.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Way ahead of you! I actually did a review of it a little while ago. Check it out and let me know what you think! I really hope you enjoy it :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5DHiK2ZeL-If6ssi=TI-YAxx8RUYvch8k

[@pejo620]

Great video, but I would argue on a couple of things. He is not Japan's most popular autor and he's not even close to being the best selling author in Japan, as there are quite a few Japanese authors with more books sold. He is probably the most popular Japanese author outside of Japan, true, but in Japan there are lots of Japanese authors who are more popular and sometimes considered "better", like Yukio Mishima, Yoko Ogawa, Soseki Natsume and many others

[@dipannitabhattacherya4866]

1Q84 is super interesting

[@WillowTalksBooks]

It's very high on my TBR

[@rufikunbargi9407]

Thank you

[@WillowTalksBooks]

You're welcome!

[@pramodbhat2818]

Eiichiro oda is most popular japanese writer btw

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Cheers

[@barkhaalisha5500]

Hes a mangaka maybe?

[@ariakovatzis9020]

Read Kafka On The Shore and amazed by the dreamlike quality. It was beautifully written and I felt I was part of the story, some of it not making much sense, just like a dream, floating above and looking down . I liked the fact that it was here, there and everywhere but connected up by the characters and locations. I liked that there was no explanation of why things happened and also the interrelationships of the characters in what seemed like parallel dimensions. It is truly incredible how his mind works to be able to come up with this work of genius. All I can figure out is that it has to do with various dimensions all interwoven. Great if we could all talk to cats and animals.

[@radla9507]

I’m I’m just saying if you’re 😊😊😊😊😊

[@liamariavoelker4162]

My first book of his was actually „Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and his Years of Pilgrimage“ - AND OMG, I basically could FEEEL and TOUCH colors through his book. So visual, so beautiful. The next one I read was „Kafka on the Shore“ - surely my favourite book of his. Next I read „The Wind-up bird chronically“ and puh, that one was bizarre but I really loved it. I‘m currently reading Norwegian Woods and I have no idea why it takes me so long to read this book. It‘s interesting but I find it not es magical as the others.

[@maco5520]

I used to live in Hokkaido once. I wanted to see and stay Dolphin Hotel appeared on "Dance Dance Dance", and even googled Dolphin Hotel "いるかホテル" in Sapporo, Hokkaido. I now know that the Dolphin Hotel exists only in Murakami's novel. However, sometimes I feel like I'm staying in Dolphin Hotel at nights. :)

[@Sweetlife9999]

Just finished Kafka on the Shore - I must say wow! It’s magical and yet real and full of compassion. Thanks for recommending and introducing this author. Now onto the others.

[@flaviastahli4491]

I know it’s probably a bit of an unpopular opinion, but my Murakami favorite so far is: south of the border west of the sun. Loved it! I think in this book he is on it’s peak when it comes to melancholy/nostalgia…

[@qt.viiikusha6935]

I came here to find this comment. I like this book most of all too)

[@bretjordan327]

I, unfortunately, dated and fell in love with a half-Japanese girl. That said, Murakami's books were her favorite. It did not end well- she was very influenced by his work. I much prefer Yukio Mishima.

[@milalou8724]

I am really glad I found this video!! I began by reading the 1Q84 saga, then "What I talk about when I talk about running", then "Kafka on the Shore" and I've recently started "Norwegian Wood". So nothing as coherent as you suggested weirdness-wise. I read 1Q84 when I was in a reading slump and kind of picked it up by accident at 17. Ever since, I keep coming back to Murakami once the idea of reading loses its appeal because of everyday life. He has such a way of romanticizing daily life, and his vagueness enchanted me because it depicts some darker sides of life with a sort of poetic yet brutal realism. As a 22 y/o woman though I'm afraid it took me years to realize his way of depicting women was problematic, but oh well, it is an incredibly common thing in culture anyway. When I was younger I kind of assumed I had to accept the position these powerful male authors assigned to my gender and I even felt privileged to be "smart enough to be the exception" (fitting that whole "I'm not like other girls" trope, "When male authors write that they aren't REALLY sexist" etc., deconstructing patriarchal norms takes a while). Wherever I am, city, country, age, his books feel like home, probably because of the recurring themes and tropes, and his style is just so clean, sharp, concise. Nothing superfluous. I love it. Like a way darker bookish version of Miyazaki.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I feel the exact same way about Murakami these days. His books bring so much comfort but they are also so problematic. This issue was actually breached in a conversation between him and Mieko Kawakami, author of Breasts and Eggs (my favourite book of 2020). You can check out the interview if you Google it and, if you haven't already, definitely pick up a copy of Breasts and Eggs.

[@RoxanneM-]

@@WillowTalksBooks , agree. I find that particular issue problematic too. I guess I’m kind of old enough to have learned to bypass those chauvinistic tendencies, but not really. It’s the reason I haven’t finished 1Q84.

[@artiesolomon3292]

Don't worry about the details you may have forgotten--you have me eager to read Haruki Murakami's novels.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Thanks so much, and I really hope you enjoy them!

[@ceciliaminaful]

You said it all, Murakami writes like comfort food , perfect ! I hope you may visit Hokkaido someday , it s really spectacular 😊

[@mariaporto3634]

South of the border, west of the sun was my first Murakami novel. I was amazed by the way he could connect the characters and how you learned more and more about the main character in just 100 pages. After that it came Kafka on the shore and Norwegian Wood, Murakami is just amazing.

[@nerfmia]

Took the words right out my mouth

[@shairamariecalinawan546]

I just can't move on from the ending of the South of the border, west of the sun. I also like that the title meant death whichever direction, so you get to choose how you live while you are alive.

[@o4oconnell]

Wow, I watched a movie called "DRIVE MY CAR" 2021 and realized it was from Murakami's "Men without Women" ( 7 short stories). Excellent movie! Loved your talk on this author. I did read Kafta on the Shore 5 years ago. It was everything you said and better. I felt like I was reading several timelines all at once with that feeling you have when you walk through a museum enjoying each work of art imaging the story. Thank you!

[@WillowTalksBooks]

You’re welcome! I can’t stand Murakami these days but you’re still very welcome!

[@o4oconnell]

@@WillowTalksBooks OMGosh what happened?

[@WillowTalksBooks]

He’s a gross misogynist and it took me way too long to realise that. Kinda embarrassed lol

[@o4oconnell]

@@WillowTalksBooks Thank you for taking the time to let me know. The movie DRIVE MY CAR...it is more balanced.

[@rohangame188]

Bro went from he's the best to he's gross 😂

[@etcetera_99]

Kafka on the shore, I love it. One of my favourites.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

It's a real good'un

[@黄リン-g4q]

Omg i can relate so much when u said u cant remember much abt the novel 😂 the addicting weirdness in his books makes me feel like im daydreaming about something... idk how to put it but u get that feeling of just waking up from a long dream after reading a few chapters but cant really explain it!! and thats probably why i like his books so much

[@WillowTalksBooks]

That's definitely how it often feels, yeah!

[@VaniaTrejoR]

I love his books, Kafka on the Shore was the first one for me, it's crazy and the characters are endearing, I remember crying when I finished. Then I continued with 1Q84 and that book really blews my mind, everything make sense at the end and left me with a fullness feeling. I truly love Murakami.

[@Ali94749]

The Wind Up Bird Chronicle was my first Murakami and one of my favourite books. Never liked anything else by him quite as much.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Agreed, I think it'll go down as his finest work.

[@JB-dm5cp]

Kafka on the Shore was my first (and only) introduction to Murakami. I was sometimes extremely puzzled (and maybe a bit frustrated by not understanding the surrealism - if that sounds logical), but always fascinated. I found the book a beautiful kaleidoscope (or indeed puzzle) of colourful images and spaces and symbols and ideas. You make the comparison to comfort food, which I find very apt. If you put it like that, I would also, in that vein, like to mention Susanna Clarke's Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, which I read with a lot of real pleasure, composed as it is of beautiful and witty prose, also with a wonderful sense of space (and atmosphere), although she attains that sense by slightly other means, I think. Her writing style is of course very different - but since I am not a very analytical reader (or a literary critic), I would not know how to describe the difference. It is more a feeling than anything else, which I am trying to describe. Sorry for my ramble.

[@mikegseclecticreads]

0:25 "Yankophile" maybe? Lol, good question Nice video!

[@leonmayne797]

Americanophile?

[@MP-cv6if]

Sounds good

[@adamwan0527]

Recently, I've been starting to miss Murakami's writing. I've read almost all of his books, and as problematic as they could be at times, they gave me comfort in a time when I needed it. And from the very first book I read of his, After Dark, he enchanted me. I still remember reading 1Q84 in January this year, and how the book was there for me as my life started to unfold before me. His writing had helped through the time, because it discussed themes that were related to what was going on in my life. It was also the first 1000+ page book that I finished. Now, I'm starting to yearn for his magical realism again, for his sparse poeticism, for his style. And ever since finishing Killing Commendatore, I've been yearning to read something like it-or, even better, to wind back time and experience it all again. But, sadly, I don't usually reread books. There was just something about Killing Commendatore that captured me; the same way 1Q84 did. Killing Commendatore had a chapter about the main character's sister that really touched me, and the rest had this sort of "emotional atmosphere," I guess, that really resonated with me. Some might complain about how Murakami portrays depression, but in my own reading his stories have always spoke to me. Which might be why I loved Norwegian Wood so much. Enough of my rambling: I'm honestly just wishing there is a new Murakami book I can read at the moment

[@adamwan0527]

I sometimes wonder if I'm being too talkative sometimes. I always seem to just want to think out loud and comment on your videos after listening to you sometimes

[@WillowTalksBooks]

You and I are having these exact feelings at the exact same moment! How curious! I just bought 1Q84 because I've never read it but I am very ready and very excited to. I'm craving the strange comfort that Murakami books give me and I'm ready to fall into that again. It's been a while.

[@adamwan0527]

@@WillowTalksBooks That's neat! I really hope you enjoy it, because it's one of my favorites from him. I have never read a book like 1Q84 before or since. Its themes about the nature of reality and belief really helped me through one of my darkest times. I just wish there is something like that for the me here right now, because I feel like I've lost the magic spark I had when I was younger. My friend and I have been at our lowest in a long time, and it's such a lonely thing. The future feels hopeless for us here. My every day almost feels like I'm on autopilot. Sure, I get happy from time to time, but they don't last. Sorry I'm depressing in my comments sometimes, and so personal. It's just such a lovely thing, talking to you like this, even if it's just through (relatively) short KZbin comment conversations here and then.

[@docchicken245]

@@adamwan0527 Don't worry, I liked to know about the experience you had with Murakami, I'm currently reading Kafka on the shore and now I would like to read 1Q84, It sounds interesting by the way you describe It. Thanks for speaking about your feelings and experience with his work. 😃

[@utawhocooks]

He is my favourite author~. I encountered this channel through a review video of Klara and The Sun, and checked some of other videos. I just got curious why there are quite a few videos on Japanese literature in this channel. But It seems interesting, so i’m gonna watch them:) subscribed!

[@moondodger5952]

I just started reading the Wind-Up Bird Chronicle after taking a hiatus off reading and I’m as hooked as I was when I read some of his other books. I enjoy how Murakami writes the mundane or everyday happenings, as if they’re more special than they actually are. I do agree that Hear the Wind Sing/Pinball 1973 aren’t essential but since I read them before reading A Wild Sheep Chase I felt like I got more context to the protagonist and the Rat’s relationship. I have never been as eager to turn pages as I have when I read Kafka on the Shore and Norwegian Wood is the one book I’ve read that (almost) made me tear up. Damn I love Haruki Murakami’s works.

[@chelseyummali]

1Q84 is so good! He is my first Japanese author and this is my first and only Murakami novel. I was a bit intimidated about the size as it will be the largest book I've ever read but it's such an easy read you don't even feel like your reading that much. I haven't ONCE thought, "oh my can't we get it done?" I just finished the 2nd book last night and feel very comfortable moving into the third. I get nervous that I won't like his other reads as much. But I will say 1Q84 is one of those that I can't tell you why I like it so much, I just enjoy it and want to keep reading.

[@frogyvox]

For me: First: Sputnik Sweetheart was just ok. Second: After Midnight was easy, fun, much more enjoyable. Many more to read. Want to try 1Q84. Thanks for the guidance.

[@alansabarillo2158]

Yes. Me too!

[@neslihangokcen5270]

I have read 2 of 5 ( Kafka on the shore and Norwegian wood). I also read “Sputnik sweetheart” and “Birthday Girl”. I like his literature, his style, and imagination...thank you for reviewing his books. For me, Kafka on the shore and Norwegian wood are best💓

[@NelsonStJames]

Added note for those who haven't read it yet, "What I talk about When I talk about Running" is included as a freebie if you are an Audible member.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Good to know, thanks!

[@a_bookish_gemini]

And so is Dance, Dance, Dance

[@jfmylane2990]

The very first book that I read written by murakami is Kafka on the shore, I didn’t know how to feel about it at first. It was hard for me to get into it but as I keep on reading it, I am starting to quite like this book because I like the build up of the story. It is quite confusing at first and I’m still getting there and I do agree that it is a very slow book. I didn’t stop there, I got the Norwegian wood book because I have heard about this book a lot. I was actually meant to get the Norwegian wood but I couldn’t find it in any bookstores near me but I do not regret getting the Kafka on the shore.

[@angiepenarandagrimaldo493]

Great video! another of his works that I enjoyed: the colorless life of tsukuru tazaki :)!

[@elektraskitchen4]

What about russian literature? How you see it? Like Tolstoy, Dostoevsky

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Haven’t read any yet

[@fufu5068]

If you look closely to Norwegian Wood cover. They're not just trees. They are feet. 3 of them. Symbolizing triangles of characters in the book.

[@johnarmstrong3509]

Great video! I’ve read almost all of his novels (as translated into English, but I think that applies to all of them) over the years, and my two enduring favorites are Wild Sheep Chase and Dance Dance Dance, the third and fourth installments of his Rat trilogy (like you I see the two early works which are nominally in the series as not in the same league). For me novels are all about world building, and in the two books I mention he creates and sustains a world that will always be with me. It’s just so atmospheric, so moody, so unique. (BTW I think what I’m calling world building is related to what you call space, though I don’t think they are exactly the same. There is also sense of place, which I think is yet a different thing.) You didn’t talk about any of his short story collections, which is fair since I don’t think any of them ascend to the level of his novels. (To be honest most of his stories come across to me as New Yorker read-on-the-potty fare.) But one collection does stick with me, and that is After the Quake. I don’t have anything like the feel for Japanese culture you do, but the book has a very Buddhist feel for me.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I couldn't agree more with everything you said. And you're right, I did overlook his short stories but that's mostly because I've only read Men Without Women, which was very hit-and-miss. I've heard marvelous things about After The Quake and I do owe it to myself to read it asap. He has a new short story collection out this year (First Person Singular) which I'm planning to review as well.

[@johnarmstrong3509]

@@WillowTalksBooks, Well we're even because you convinced me to read What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, a book I had dismissed without knowing what it was. In fact I'm going to check in at my local bookstore (which is bravely hanging in amidst the pandemic) tomorrow and see if they have it.

[@docchicken245]

@@johnarmstrong3509 have you read that running book yet?

[@saralbruno]

Kafka on the shore is still the best book I've ever read! Just bought the wind up bird chronicle today cause the over is so beautiful. Excited to read it. I hope I love it even more. Admittedly Kafka is a slow start. Around page 200 it becomes the best journey I've been on

[@СтасЧаплин]

(No spoilers) I've read The Wild Sheep Chase recently, which was my first encounter with Haruki. And yes, there are a lot of issues to pick on. But eventually the book captures your attention and literally talks you into keeping on reading it. The ending was a bit of a disappointment after such intriguing episodes in that secluded mansion. In general - I don't regret reading it at all. It was really atmospheric. I travelled to Hokkaido with great pleasure within the pages of the book. Started the Norwegian Wood, seem to like the beginning more.

[@grazieladarlenesantos9858]

I have read Norwegian Wood and Kafka on the Shore. I agree with your feedback and insights on them. I'll be moderating a book discussion on Kafka on the Shore this weekend and your video has helped me gather more interesting points about Haruki Murakami. Thank you!

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Oh how fun! Enjoy!

[@Indimanga]

I read "What i talk about when I talk about running" first and I just finished "Norwegian wood" before I found this video Surely going to follow the order

[@ASuitcaseFullofBooks]

I wish you’d had this video out when I was trying to figure out what to read on my way to Japan! I didn’t end up choosing a Murakami book, but this is helpful for next time!

[@mjmj424]

I really enjoy your videos, thanks for doing this. I read Norwegian Wood in February and really enjoyed it. I'm not typically a magical realism guy but have since read his first four novellas/novels and can't quite explain why I enjoy his books so much. But somehow I keep wanting to read more. Wind Up Bird is probably next for me, especially after watching your video, but I'm also eager to dive into 1Q84. BTW I really liked Pinball 1973 even though it's an early work and unpolished. Dance Dance Dance is probably my favorite after Norwegian Wood.

[@halwis]

I started with A Wild Sheep Chase, followed by After Dark; which I think was a good place to start. I couldn't get into Kafka, but am currently reading Dance Dance Dance.

[@Lord_Heron]

I started with 'Kafka on The Shore' and then straight into 'Wind-Up Bird Chronicle' which is my favourite still. Most of his books are great but I didn't really like 'Norwegian Wood' as I personally found it a bit ordinary (and a bit boring) compared to most of his other wonders. I would suggest going straight for the classics such as the two I mentioned, he is not a very difficult read (weird, but not difficult), so not really any need for a 'run-up'. I also really liked 'Dance Dance Dance' and 'Killing Commendatore'. 'IQ84' also great. I have recommended Murakami to several people and they have all become hooked. He just writes in a very enjoyable style that is rather addictive, also there is the added thrill of not really being able to predict where the story will go next, which keeps it fresh even in a long novel.

[@robertczebotar7025]

🍀 Norwegian Wood in polish translation.....465 pages;))))))

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Wow, that's steep!

[@tautvydastomkus]

thank you for the video, however, I think you're overexplaining each and every book's plot. I've read all of them so I was just interested to hear your take on this, but if I were new I would say most introductions are a little overelaborated. I however agree with your pick, all your mentioned books are magnificent and worthy of mention

[@ayanbose4739]

Murakami is love, My favourites till now are The Wind Up Bird Chronicle, Kafka On the Shore, The Wild Sheep Chase, Dance Dance Dance and Norwegian Wood. Haven't read Killing Commendatore & 1Q84 yet. You're absolutely right, there is something about japanese literature, you just love to read, for me it always have been the characterization & also the brief narrative of a particular place, the author is talking about in his/her book. Absolutely adore Japanese literature. In Korean literature adore Han Lang's works till now. Can you recommend or make a video on Korean & Argentinian literature, what to read, books & author recommendations etc.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I can't wait to read Dance Dance Dance. And you're in luck! I've already done a video on my favourite Korean literature. You can find it here on the channel. And if you visit our website (Books and Bao) we have tons of lists and reviews dedicated to literature from Korea, Argentina, and more! I'll be doing a video on Argentinian literature soon as well!

[@ayanbose4739]

@@WillowTalksBooks Ah yes I'm currently viewing one of your videos only "must read korean translated novels". So much glad that I had found your channel. ❤️

[@WillowTalksBooks]

@@ayanbose4739 I'm honoured!

[@ayanbose4739]

@@WillowTalksBooks Hello again mate 🙂 hope you're doing good 🌼 I am looking forward to read "Hiromi kawakami's novels", will be glad to hear it from you how do you feel about her novels.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

@@ayanbose4739 Thanks for saying so! I actually got into her before Murakami. She was where I started reading Japanese lit so I can't wait to do a video on her. She's magical.

[@bobbykeniston7240]

I am almost embarrassed to admit it, but I only recently read my first Murakami in the last year, based completely on a librarian's suggestion at my local library. It was his latest collection of short stories, "First Person Singular," and I immediately wondered where Murakami had been all my life. Thank you for this list of recommendations on how to proceed...

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I'm sorry to say that this is quite poor timing. Just as you've discovered Murakami, I've decided to put him down forever. You can watch my newer video on 1Q84 to see why if you like.

[@Yuna_David]

Couple of years ago I read 1q84. I wasn’t that much into reading and had very little experience and the weirdness of the it kinda shocked me but I definitely loved it

[@WillowTalksBooks]

It's interesting how Murakami manages to be so surreal and strange yet so easily readable. I'm not sure how he and his translators manage it.

[@ChrisJonesBeats]

The pop artist who’s a god , takashi MURAKAMI DOE 🔥

[@cherylynlarking191]

Loved your views and opinions of Murakami books. Have read several but need to read the 2 I haven't read. I love the diverse aspects of them.

[@hmpbs6679]

My first murakami book was the killing of commendatore and I loved it. Mainly because I’m into painting and classical music but the supernatural/surrealist side of the book was even better and I’ve been seeking something like that ever since

[@renzo6490]

I generally dislike “ surreal fantasy”. Eg. 100 years of solitude. But I truly enjoyed Killing Commendatore!

[@stefanolorenzo4375]

I came across this video whilst looking for some reviews of Murakami work. I’ve recently read Kafka On The Shore and was blown away. I’ve never read a book that brought out such joy in me in a way I’ve never experienced. I thought the way you explained his work is really on point and whilst I’ve only read one book of his I feel you explained them perfectly. Thank you and have subscribed to your channel!

[@WillowTalksBooks]

You may not like my other Murakami videos. Just a heads-up

[@paholainen100]

Dance dance dance is definitely a good one. I enjoyed it. Typical murakami where the protagonist goes off onto an adventure to Hokkaido and nobody really knows where it will all lead to

[@daichiimai3289]

I like Shion Miura too! By the way, I am Japanese. I'm going to read the book you recommended. Thank you.

[@DragonFlame135]

I am the furthest thing from an avid reader, I’m a junior in highschool and can’t remember the last book I had read of my own volition. But for some reason or another I looked up Norwegian wood and was obsessed and spent the last two days doing nothing but reading it until I finished it about an hour ago. I’m thinking of picking up Kafka on the shore next but what other books would you recommend. I’ve got this momentum going and I want to keep it going but I have no idea what books are good.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Since I've mostly outgrown Murakami, my best advice is to check out a few more of his books and then move on to other (better) Japanese authors like Yoko Ogawa, Sayaka Murata, and Hiromi Kawakami. In fact, Kawakami's books have a similar pace and tone to Murakami's.

[@sinewavealex]

I love Murakami so much because of how he manages to interweave both the large scale backdrops and the interpersonal, intimate settings of protagonists that would look grey and unremarkable at first glance. Examples are the Japanese invasion of Manchuria which is discussed in the Wind up Bird Chronicles, or the student protests in the 1960s. While this is all in the background, the forefront is the intimate journeys his protagonists go through, and like you said. The feeling you get as though the book is alive. the background noise, the birds chirping, the sky above, it feels like you're there in person, and while you may not end up identifying with the protagonists, you do feel like this is all happening to you.

[@parkerrose3590]

I loved Wind up bird and Wild Sheep Chase. I also loved Dance, dance, dance, the last of the "Rat Series". I am reading Killing Commendatore now and loving it.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

You're the hundredth person to tell me they loved Dance Dance Dance. I'll have to read it soon!

[@MA-ug6pz]

IMHO Rat tetralogy is the books that is to begin reading Haruki Murakami

[@marthajumartins]

You should read Brazilian Lit! :-) By the way, What I talk about when I talk about running was my first Murakami and I couldn't agree more with you. Loved how he connected the runnng with writing. Such a jam !!!

[@theax2651]

I honestly started reading Haruki Murakami's books after I read "Pinball" and I personally thought I wouldn't like it, but something about the way he writes just keeps you intrigued and it makes you think. When I read "After The Quake" as well, I ended up crying, a part of that book really really made me think a lot. The main reason I like his books is that the books are like opening a sector that makes you think about everything. (As of right now I own 5 books of his and by far my favourite is Men without Women and After The Quake)

[@theax2651]

I'm not really the best at explaining properly ngl so I'm sorry about that

[@yezenia9830]

I've been considering reading 1Q84 because it is a good economical decision to buy such a long book. Can't get English books or books in my native language in the country I live so have to buy English. I never read Murakami before because I heard about his r/menwritingwomen tendencies but I think im ready to ignore it. Also I found your channel just now and I really like you! You are comfortable to listen to and very interesting. I don't follow any other booktubers who's into Japanese literature :)

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Yeah his way of writing women is exhausting but you can try to ignore it. And I'm very glad you're enjoying my channel, thank you!

[@lovenature7823]

Excellent! Those are the books I would suggest for a new Murakami reader as well. Now, "Killing Commenda..." is so far my favorite after the "What I talk about when I talk about Running". I'm looking forward to the translation for his new book expected in April 2023, well in Japanese. Good job, thank you.

[@sunandmoodreads2333]

This was just the video I was looking for! Yes I am totally that reader who loves the idea of Murakami, but have yet to start the journey. I've had Wind Up Bird Chronicle on my TBR shelf for years. I started reading years ago, gave me the strangest dreams so DNF'd it after 20 pages, and never went back LOL. But funnily enough, I remember every single detail that I have read so far, so clear in my head. I know his books will have an impact on me, just need to take that first step and you have helped with this immensely. Thank you and look forward to watching more of your videos!

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Wow, to have such vivid dreams after 20 pages! You have quite the lovely imagination. I'm jealous! I hope you enjoy his books when you do eventually take the plunge!

[@ISOShakespeare]

Have you read his latest collections of essays on writing, "Novelist as a Vocation"?

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I don’t read him anymore

[@lapis31]

How could you have not read 1q84? It is an amazing read. I named on of my cats Aomame because of the book.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I have now. This video is old. I made a video about how it’s a terrible book, then a follow-up video laughing at all the angry replies I got

[@jessicahuwae5772]

Ah, finally a channel about Asian books. Thank you for this. I love Sputnik Sweetheart and IQ84 took me to Koentji area when I visited Tokyo 2 years ago. There's always some kind of solitude feeling each time I read one of the Japanese writers you mentioned, but as a rookie such theme can be depressing and daunting.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I understand what you mean by solitude. A lot of Japanese writers bring a unique kind of atmosphere to their writing that you don't find amongst Western writers. I find it so soothing.

[@nadyeshayandhi425]

Thank you for the insightful tips. Just Norwegian Wood and i looooovee it so much. Felt like i didnt want to end reading it. Now i cant wait read WITAWITAR. I only have those two 😞😞. Any recommendation on what murakami books should i buy next since i'm a newbie in this murakami's world. Thx in advance...

[@LAK_770]

Despite having forgotten details, lol, you do absolutely nail the key points. I think you conveyed fairly well why you like the books - you call it a sense of space, I would call it a 'vibe'. Murakami and other major Japanese writers meticulously convey settings and allow them to breathe, and it results in a certain quality of immersion that can be hard to find to the same extent elsewhere. The mountain town in Snow Country and the Setagaya back alleys in Wind-Up Bird are practically characters in themselves. You also do a good job of hitting the most salient points about the books, in terms of their themes, tone, difficulties, and likely overall impression on the reader. We also share the same Murakami favorites. Reading Sheep Chase and Wind-Up Bird back-to-back over the course of several blustery, darkening autumn weeks in my mid-twenties are some of my most evocative, fondest memories.

[@angsasalawat6764]

The first book i read of H.Murakami was “Elephant vanishes”. Not a good decision i hated how he left the ending without any closure. From that book i loved the story of dancing dwarf ( i am sorry if i got the title wrong, read long time ago). Then my sister pushed me to read some of his other books as Haruki was her best author. I read kafka on the shore not a good choice too. I loved his writing not the story plot though. I thought i couldn’t hate an author after reading on 1 and 2 books. So i started reading his killing commendatore ( i loved that book), then i read colorless Tazumi ( i am bad with names), then read First person singular ( loved the story of Shirazawa monkey) and now i am reading Norwegian woods. I can’t describe it but now i can’t stop myself from reading any of his books.

[@rubyjreads7503]

Awesome video!! Read Kafka On the Shore and went all in. Purchased all of his books. Short stories are hit or miss. Pre-ordered his new book coming out in April. Murakami is awesome!!!

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I reeeeeally hope his new book is good! Men Without Women was very very fine.

[@sumayah7908]

*Be warned: sorry, I wrote a mini essay this early in the morning but this video got me pumped to get my hands on "a wild sheep chase", so thank you, new subbie! You don't have read this haha. My first Murakami novel was Killing Commendatore, which I absolutely adored and, despite not being a re-reader, I could seriously see myself picking it up for that comforting element you mentioned! And then when I went and read The Wind Up Bird I was like "ahh so the holes in grounds and sisters are his thing", which was great because I was so in to it the first time! I totally agree with your reasons for loving Murakami and think you did a really great job with this video overall, even if you have forgotten a lot! lol (I actually dislike knowing too much (sometimes anything at all) about a book before I read it so that was great for me ^_^) Here are some reasons why I am a fangirl, even after just 3 novels: 1) That Murakami bingo element you mentioned. I was super bookish as a kid (I'm 24 now!) and fell off of reading as I got older, which was sad. How much I enjoyed KC, and how strongly Wind Up Bird invoked the same feeling made me think I could probably pick up any Murakami novel and feel that way. I dunno, there's something about a hole in the ground hahaha, it was refreshing! Its kind of like when you hear a song you really like, so you go to the artist's spotify and listen to the album or some of their other music, and its a totally different vibe to the song? Even if its good, the disappointment of the vibe not matching makes it hard to go back, but maybe that's just me? Murakami is the opposite of that! Some people find it repetitive but I think, don't fix it if it aint broke! 2) I bought KC a month before covid hit and the surrealist element felt also a little existential if that makes sense? It felt a remedy for the existential dread I was feeling at the time. The human feeling of some of the characters is also really comforting, sometimes his writing feels like an objective lens in to human beings, even through his protagonists obviously have their own thoughts and perspective. 3) I feel like the protagonists (who are definitely weirdos) have this "wtf, why am I in weird situations all the time, am I the DRAMA? I don't think I'm the Dramaaaa (Tiktok lol)" and it is so soooo validating hahaha it feels like they are looking out at me from inside the book like "do you see this shit? this is weird right?". I loved how neutral the protag in KC was, but the chaos of the protag in TWUBC was a really nice, mild 180 for me. If you made it this far, thanks for hanging out for me 6 am ramble hehe have a nice day!

[@karylle4830]

reading haruki murakami is like watching a studio ghibli movie

[@summbuddie9120]

Kafka on the Shore rewired my brain, it made me double down on wanting to be a writer

[@doraynesemik1378]

I just hosted a book club last night and the book I suggested was Kafka On the Shore. This was because my first Murakami book was IQ84 which I absolutely loved but thought it was too long for a book club book. I loved Kafka On the Shore. I was surprised by the reactions of oine of the members who said that she knew a lot about Eastern philosophy and the author "obviously" spent 10 minutes looking up different philosophies and showed no understanding about the basic principles involved. The exact reason which I liked the book so much - the dreamlike qualities, the "otherness" of the characters, the unusual story lines and the interweaving of both characters and storylines, the magical reality elements like the talking cats, and the fish falling from the sky, were summarily dismissed as not being realistic and therefore stupid and confusing. I am so grateful for your recommendations and look forward to reading more of Murakami's stories.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Definitely don’t check out my other, newer videos on Murakami 😇

[@karltons9873]

1Q84 was my first and I was hooked! (Kafka was my second so I guess I love the deep end). Great video

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Seems like 1Q84 was the first for a lot of people! And that certainly is the deep end. I'm actually getting a real urge to jump into that big boi myself now!

[@SirithKhan]

I probably don't read as much as you, but I also have trouble remembering the books I read (and the movies I watch). I often find myself looking up plot and character information on Wikipedia after reading (or watching) something just to catch things I missed or don't remember.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Same! I've had to do that and then reassure people that I have read the thing, I swear, I just have a terrible memory!

[@ramiromansilla6477]

I'm so proud you praise Argwntinian literature!

[@ritwikkhurana3124]

I feel your review of Murakami's work has been very very objective, although I love it, IMO his work cannot be objectively understood. That's why some people love it and others don't. I think being too critical for fiction really defeats the purpose lol

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Guess that's my entire career as an English teacher turned fiction critic down the pan

[@TheFierceMonkey505]

KAFKA IS 15! Love the video though. 😁thanks again

[@cappuccinocrafts2412]

Years ago, I tried to start reading Haruki Murakami with 1Q84. Whoo, that did not go well. I have read a lot of other books since then, and a lot more with magical/surreal elements. But I have always been hesitant about which book to try from Murakami again. And, because of some of the reasons you mentioned, wondered whether it was really worth it. This video is very informative. I think I will start with the Wind Up Bird Chronicle. I really like the way you talk about books and literature.

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I've seen that a surprising number of people start with 1Q84 and what's even more surprising is that it turns most of them into immediate fans! Yet I still haven't found the time to read it. I hope you love Wind-Up Bird though; it's my fave.

[@DKMelonMan]

Colorless is my #1

[@porse3226]

Been looking through the comments for colourless, one of my favs

[@ireneb.4887]

My first Murakami was 1Q84 😅 Just a heads up Don't read it while stoned If acid was a book it'd be 1Q84

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Definitely check out my review. You’ll love it 💜

[@lokarin]

So glad I found your channel, agree totally on the books of Murakami you talk about there. Although after just finishing the 1Q84 triology( who’s revues haven’t been so great) I must say Murakami is definitely my favourite author❣️❣️❣️ I loved the 1Q84 triology. I also like you find Japanese literature at the top of my list. I have been fascinated about Japan, and Japanese culture since childhood. And as you say, I find COMFORT there. As if I came home to the familiar, to home! (I’m Swedish) But 15 years ago I started travelling to Asia, and as I now near my retirement, after COVID, that is where I’m heading back to. I would like to mention two books I love and will reread over and over again. Mo Hayders “ TOKYO” The devil of Nanking, and Anne Berry’s “ The hungry ghosts” as my tip to you.... perhaps you’ve already read them?😍 Anyway, thank you for what you do SO WELL♥️♥️♥️

[@WillowTalksBooks]

Wow, it sounds like we're kindred spirits. I haven't read either of the books you've mentioned so I will make an effort to pick them up and read them asap, thank you!

[@shruthiswaminathan2907]

Thank you so much for this Haruki Murakami guide! Much needed!

[@WillowTalksBooks]

You're very welcome! Glad you found it helpful!

[@milenabelanska3607]

Please read IQ84. You won t feel its lenght. Based on your opinions I am sure you ll totally love it!

[@WillowTalksBooks]

It's actually going to be my next Murakami book! I recently read (and made a video about) Hard-boiled Wonderland, and now I'm ready to start 1Q84.

[@sayuriakirayuu7944]

You should really read 1Q84, personally the trilogy are my favs besides Kafka and After Dark

[@WillowTalksBooks]

I definitely will, as soon as I have the time!