Book Review: Kafka on the Shore

Author: Haruki Murakami, translated by Philip Gabriel

5/5

489 pages

One thing so special about this book is that not only have I brought it with me to different places I went, but also it did bring me to several places I've never gone. I mean, all books do, but this one... it brought me to another world and made me feel like I am a part of this world and at the same time of that world. In simpler word, it confused me of the reality and the dream.

This is the second Murakami book that I have read. So far, he hasn't failed to deceive me. Like a child, I believe him everytime. It's like, he's controlling me and I do obey him.

Kafka on the Shore revolves around two remarkable characters, Kafka and Nakata, who are connected by some unfathomable instance. A prophecy, as stated, brought them to that unlikely situation which will make the mind of the readers twist and turn.

Mainly it is about survival. How to survive daily life and at some point, how to exist. I like how this book contains a little bit of everything: love, relationships, family, music, art, memories, multiverse, fitness, literature, etc. The shifting to these elements, kind of made the story perfect, although it's not. But for me, it is almosttttt perfect.

It contains alot of metaphors and symbolisms which maybe I should talk about when I analyze it critically. But the characters of the story are all part of the symbolisms and metaphors.

Favourite quote:

"People need a place they can belong."

Perhaps not a literal place though, or just happens to be not on this world, but there is a place for everyone. There should be.

Favourite character:

Hoschino. Aside the main of course. I think he is the realest and most natural character. His reactions and way of thinking are all natural for a person IRL.