86 Books
See allThe book is more relevant than ever in this age of smart things.
We can kind of allude to the current state of constant tracking, targeted ads and a feel of lack in privacy to how the characters are being watched in the novel.
The phrase "Big brother is watching you" has evolved from a mere reference to a haunting reminder of these times.
The novel slow in the start but catches on. It's a really immersive read with us feeling attentive and paying close attention to all the small details.
You feel as if something big is going to go down anytime. The author has done excellent job in conveying what the character might have felt.
There is this real eeriness of being watched that you can feel from reading the book.
Overall the novel is really good and it's one of those must read recommendations from me.
I kind of enjoyed this book. While the passive voice felt a bit awkward at first, I adjusted quickly and picked up the pace.
After that it's an easy read. I didn't mind the ambiguous ending befure but over time I see why people don't like it.
One of the major gripe I had was an unnecessary character arc that could have been avoided. Another issue is the less fleshed-out, forgettable side characters.
Overall, though, it’s an alright book. It has some flaws and I have heard rooney gets repetitive. But as my first sally rooney read it was entertaining.
The novel wouldn't be there if people in it communicated better. But that aspect didn't frustrate me that much as others since I have seen conflicts due to miscommunication. So the premise didn't feel unbelievable.
Contains spoilers
One of the worst books I have ever read. It was alright at start but it was such a fast descent to trash. Like forgiving the abuse was bad enough but having a baby with the abuser and having to deal with him. God what a shitty novel.
I get it's inspired from the authors life but still doesn't make these things right.The abuser is based on the author's father, so obviously she will try to paint down the issue. But it's so unacceptable. The novel borderline romanticise abuse.
Like in real life you most would run and never look back. The novel shouldn't give message like being this forgiving, and breaking the cycle should have had removing the person from your life too.
One good thing the book did is it's making me appreciate other booktok books. I think that it could be so much worse.
Contains spoilers
This is one of my all time favorites. I am giving a 4 because I have a weird relationship with the book and it's not perfect.
Sometimes I remember the good parts then the bad. But still I all the parts are there in my heart. I can clearly visualise everything.
Stormtrooper, the walks with forests, the food and dates with midori.
The book has some weird stuff though. Like midori at the shrine at home.
Still I highly recommend it. This was my first Murakami and it has been a great journey since.
He made me remember how much fun I had reading as a kid and because of him I am able to enjoy reading like I used to.
It's just something when you find that one book and you just can't put it down. I was missing it and got to relive that feeling with this one. Can't wait to read more of Murakami.
It could have been much better. It had many threads that weren't fully developed. It touches on a variety of issues, but some of them needed to be fleshed out a bit more. Also, the friendship storyline with Rami was super frustrating to read. They are reasonable at first, but it turns sour for no reason. I know the book is written for a younger audience, but the way Rami acts is unrealistic for a friend at that age.
Overall, an alright short read. I'm giving it half a star extra because of the artwork. The art is really beautiful and makes the reading fast and pleasant.