A review by labelleetoile_
Heaven by Mieko Kawakami

emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced

• 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

4.0

"Heaven" by Mieko Kawakami is a strong and thought-provoking novel that talks about bullying, friendship, and the search for acceptance. The story is set in contemporary Japan, following two adolescents, Kojima and Ushiyama, through the complexities of adolescence and the brutal realities of social hierarchy. Kawakami's prose is raw and evocative, being able to get across the emotionality of her characters with a sincerity and sensitivity that is moving. Indeed, through their interwoven narratives, "Heaven" affords a deeply human exploration of the human experience, confronting readers with the darker aspects of society while also finding moments of hope and redemption in an otherwise compelling and unforgettable read that lingers long after the last page has been turned. And honestly, this is a difficult and painful book to read.