A review by nervousbell
Heaven by Mieko Kawakami

dark emotional sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.0

In the backdrop of early 1990s Japan, "Heaven" unfolds as a poignant narrative, ostensibly a tale of two misfits finding solace in each other. However, beneath its surface lies a quest for meaning amidst the throes of suffering. Despite its anticipation on my to-be-read list since January, my experience with this novel diverged from my previous encounter with Mieko Kawakami's work, particularly "All the Lovers in the Night." While both evoked profound emotional responses, "Heaven" failed to resonate with me in the same profound manner. As I delved deeper into the narrative, a sense of disconnect emerged, leaving me perplexed and somewhat unfulfilled, especially as I approached the 75% mark. The bully's monologue, though a raw portrayal of human nature, left me frustrated and disenchanted, albeit acknowledging its unsettling authenticity. Undoubtedly, Kawakami's strength lies in her portrayal of characters, their complexities vividly etched throughout the narrative. Yet, despite this commendable characterization, I found myself grappling with a sense of ennui, longing for a deeper engagement that never quite materialized.