A review by jen_abrahall
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata

lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

this beautifully elegant book is the perfect antidote to the current political climate. Murata has written a spellbinding gentle narrative bolstered by a sophisticated subtle exploration of character that takes the reader on a somehow strangely relatable journey alongside the seemingly dysfunctional outsider Keiko. The protagonists ‘flaws’ form the backbone of this short novel in a refreshing way - a way that isn’t dramatic or other worldly or dystopian. in a very real delicately human way. and despite the major focus on character in this novel, it is impossible to explore Keikos position in society without exploring ideas of patriarchy, emancipation unattained and the role of women. a beautifully fast paced carefully constructed work of art.