A review by sobremesa
Men Without Women by Haruki Murakami

3.0

As a whole, it's fair to say that 'Men Without Women' falls short of being one of Murakami's finest works. While I harbor some affection for it, given that the recognition 'Drive My Car' received at the Oscars prompted me to delve into his literary world, it failed to capture the distinctive 'Murakami Charm' that I've cherished in many of his other creations.
The short story that lends its title to the book, 'Men Without Women,' also misses the mark in bringing forth this charm. It is simply disappointing and superficial.
The true gems of the book undoubtedly lie in 'An Independent Organ,' 'Scheherazade,' and 'Kino' — the latter being the one that continues to affirm my belief in the saying, 'Murakami's books will find you when you need them the most.'