A review by maddiehardick
Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami

adventurous emotional inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective slow-paced

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

4.0

I’ve always loved Murakami’s writing since I was in high school, and as I’ve gotten older I’ve been able to not only love it but also see it for what it is: a novel written by a Japanese man who grew up in the 70s. Some of his writing of the female characters in his novels, including this one, reflects the rather primitive view that women are unknowable and mysterious. As a result, his female characters tend to be over sexualised and not very deep. Almost as if they are just symbols and signs in the male journey. 

Other than that sort of thing, I find Murakami’s poignant and meandering way of writing as moving and tender as ever. And also, there is some genuinely great humor in this story. Loved the characters, especially Hoshino. This book will always hold a special place in my heart.