Plot Summary

An Artist of the Floating World

Kazuo Ishiguro
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An Artist of the Floating World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986

Book Brief

Kazuo Ishiguro

An Artist of the Floating World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986
Book Details
Pages

206

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Japan • Post-WWII

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1060L

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Super Short Summary

An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro follows retired artist Masuji Ono as he reflects on his career creating propaganda during World War II. As Ono questions his past decisions and their impact on his family and society, he navigates post-war uncertainty and seeks redemption by reevaluating his role and reconnecting with former colleagues and wronged peers.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.0

43,450 ratings

66%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Kazuo Ishiguro's An Artist of the Floating World is praised for its nuanced exploration of memory and national identity in post-war Japan. Critics commend its eloquent prose and complex protagonist but note that the slow pacing may not appeal to all readers. While some find the narrative introspective and profound, others feel it lacks dynamism. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and evocative read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read An Artist of the Floating World?

A reader who appreciates contemplative narratives, historical settings, and deep character studies would enjoy An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro. Fans of Remains of the Day or Snow Country will find this novel engaging, as it deftly explores themes of memory, regret, and personal legacy in post-WWII Japan.

4.0

43,450 ratings

66%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

206

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Japan • Post-WWII

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1060L

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