A review by diaadiary
Heaven by Mieko Kawakami

dark emotional lighthearted reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

There is a special kind of power and skill that comes from writing a wonderful, meaningful story in under 150-200 pages. Kawakami has written a masterpiece and I will stand by that opinion forever. While reading this book I felt a kaleidoscope of feelings; this is the kind of book that will take you on a fucking ride. 
 
The writing made my brain twisty and turny. The story begins with a creation of a wholesome and lighthearted friendship, including breezy and simple dialogues of youth that embody innocence. Kawakami makes the beginning so desirable and nostalgic, that you can’t help wanting to stay there forever. At times I did feel bored, but I cannot help appreciating those mundane parts of daily life. 
 
However, amidst the youthful joy, there is an underlying threatening mood. The reader quickly realizes that there is an impending doom on the horizon. Kawakami perfectly displays the complexity of the human condition, all inclusive of its horrors, delights, wants, or needs. She executes this through conversations and monologues. Her characters not only discuss innocent themes of life, but fervently talk about the existential, philosophical, and confusing parts. It was interesting to experience each character’s values on love, loss, guilt etc. These middle schoolers challenged what it means to be hurt/to hurt, how/why people inadvertently hurt their loved ones, and the meaning of death. 
 
Kawakami’s prose is effortless yet profound. The split between carefree living and existential dread was craaaaaazy ok.  This book was bittersweet, disturbing, and reflective. Not to be dramatic, but I will proceed to curl up under the covers in the fetal position and stare at the wall. 
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