A review by heisiiri
Lähikaupan nainen by Sayaka Murata

funny reflective
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

This book is a fascinating reflection on societal expectations placed on people, the way those social expectations are gendered, and growing up neurodivergent while those strict restrictions are placed on you at every stage of life.

I think my favorite parts of the book were the intricate descriptions of everyday life at the convenience store, like at the beginning of the book. It felt oddly calming, and made me see so much beauty in a part of life that I usually rush through.

Some of the parts towards the middle and end of the book I didn't enjoy as much, although the social commentary stayed excellent throughout. Regardless, this book is a quick and easy read for anyone looking for some reflective fiction about everyday life, but also about bigger themes like society and misogyny and individuality.
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