Comments on: 69 Contemporary Japanese Novels

By: Yolanda

Yolanda — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 10:45:57 +0000

Thanks for your list – I will definitely delve into it!
I just read ‘Out’ by Natsuo Kirino and it is a gripping, fascinating read. It is highly recommendable and I can’t stop thinking about it. A real gem…. I just ordered ‘Grotesque’ and ‘Real World’ from the same author (both available in English).

By: sarah

sarah — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 04:02:43 +0000

This is a very complete list of Contemporary Japanese Novels, so I was hoping that somehow this expertise could solve a riddle, of sorts. I’m desperately trying to remember the title of a book by a Japanese author. That seems to be the only tangible (searchable) thing I can remember about it. (And I’ve had such little luck I’m starting to doubt it IS by a Japanese author.) Anyway, basic plot, that I can remember, is the main character is writing to the reader in a journal-like, historical-account-type-way. He wears a mask, that he has made and is very elaborate, but it doesn’t quite pass for a real face. It’s creepy and psychological. Something about a neighbor kid giving the guy a yo-yo. Any help appreciated. You seem like THE internet expert. (Believe it or not.)

By: symeg

symeg — Tue, 17 May 2011 00:09:26 +0000

Yes, Norwegian Wood was a bit tough going – the one book of his I never finished. Thank you for your comment Ayat.

By: Ayat Melhim

Ayat Melhim — Mon, 16 May 2011 19:36:26 +0000

Really thanks to this great list. It helped me ,as a curious girl from the Middle East ,to have a closer look at the japanese society. In fact, I have not finished reading all the novels that mentioned in this list ,but I feel I should tell that ‘In a Norwigan Wood’ was ,unfortunately,the worst! It was really boring and full of love story cliches . Anyway, I will continue reading indeed.

By: kristine

kristine — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 06:15:32 +0000

Hey, you didn’t include Kazuo Ishiguro.

Never Let Me Go – favorite/2010 movie
When We Were Orphans
The Unconsoled
A Pale View of the Hills
Remains of the Day – already in a film

By: Ayush Raj

Ayush Raj — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:16:09 +0000

Thanks. Your article has inspired me.

By: covet

covet — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 11:39:31 +0000

1.norweign wood – favourite
2. Kafka on the shore- second favourite
3. Out – cant stop reading.
4. Grotesque ( not the best/ but still enjoyable and disturbing)
5. After dark (not great)

thanks for the list
i will make sure to read more,
and post more feedbacks.

By: Lyn

Lyn — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 23:46:40 +0000

I am thinking about reading Naoko . when i read the review, i find it quite interesting:). Have you read that book?:D

By: FLUNACY

FLUNACY — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 21:21:55 +0000

Hello from Italy
I’ve just finished reading “Kafka on the shore” by Harumi Murakami and I’ve loved it! I’ve started “Norwegian Wood” … this author’s way of writing is addictive..
These are the first Japanese novels I’ve ever read and I’m going to read plenty… thank you for this list, I’ll certainly read further from it! A big CIAO from Italy

By: Fred

Fred — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:06:47 +0000

Thanks for the recommendations. I just bought four books on your list! I’m currently reading Kafka on the Shore. Are there any other cultures or genres where you can find literature that’s reminiscent of the Murakamis? I know Rushdie writes pretty fantastic stories, but I’m not really a fan. His work doesn’t seem to carry the same weight. Thanks!