This series was described to me as "anime in book form". I didn't have much experience with Japanese literature aside for "Kafka on the Shore" by Haruhi Narukami, but given what I have read (read a translation by Baka-Tsuki), I can say that this series does fantastically for its medium (called light novels).

I can't exactly judge this book by realistic standards. I've watched a couple animes before so I'm aware of certain tropes that are often used in anime, and they don't exactly conform to our reality. So that's why I read this book like I was watching an anime. The result? An incredible thriller that surprised me in more ways than one.

I would strongly suggest picking this book up if you're looking for an easy read with thoughtfully written scenes.