My first Murakami book to read — definitely had high expectations but this book was just not for me — still a compelling story that will leave you with more questions than answers.

Murakami messing with my mind again. A mystery that isn't a mystery. No clues to unravel, no startling conclusions. He'll bring the reader to a moment that seems momentous, and then slyly let it be mundane. And just to be absolutely clear about that, he'll address what you might think he's getting at and tell you point blank that's not what it is. Or you'll think you see a big plot twist and he'll say, nope, it's really what it appears to be. Somehow he fills this stark series of short chapters with lush cinematic details, complete with a playlist of tunes playing in the background of each scene. Or intense silence.

Again, the male-centric narrative gets annoying as the book progresses and especially towards the end. Mari is such a lovable character though her sister is described as almost too perfect.