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430
Novel • Fiction
Japan • 2010s
2019
Adult
18+ years
In Breasts and Eggs by Mieko Kawakami, translated by Sam Bett and David Boyd, Natsuko “Natsu” Natsume, a single woman living in contemporary Tokyo, navigates her journey towards solo motherhood while contending with societal expectations and personal dilemmas related to womanhood, reproductive rights, and life outside conventional gender roles. The novel explores topics including domestic violence, suicidal ideation, and sexual abuse.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Mysterious
65,703 ratings
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Breasts and Eggs by Mieko Kawakami, translated by Sam Bett and David Boyd, offers a powerful exploration of womanhood, identity, and societal expectations. Praised for its intricate character development and lyrical prose, the novel provides a poignant yet nuanced narrative. Critics, however, note that its slow pacing may not appeal to all readers. Overall, it’s a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Readers who enjoy Breasts and Eggs are likely fans of contemporary literary fiction that explores the intricacies of womanhood, identity, and societal expectations. Similar audiences might appreciate Elena Ferrante's My Brilliant Friend or Haruki Murakami's Norwegian Wood for their nuanced character studies and emotional depth.
65,703 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Midoriko
Natsu’s niece, who is grappling with her changing relationship with her mother and societal roles as she grows from a child into a young adult.
Makiko
Natsu’s older sister who is a devoted mother and works at a hostess bar, juggling her insecurities and ambitions while supporting her daughter and sister.
Rika Yusa
A successful novelist who befriends Natsu, supporting her on her fertility journey and embodying the role of a confident single mother.
Jun Aizawa
A significant male character and friend to Natsu, who shares similar feelings of societal alienation and eventually collaborates with her in her personal goals.
Yuriko Zen
Aizawa’s girlfriend known for her views on procreation and challenging traditional ideas about motherhood.
Ryoko Sengawa
Natsu’s editor, a career-focused woman who presents a contrasting perspective on the balance between professional ambitions and motherhood.
430
Novel • Fiction
Japan • 2010s
2019
Adult
18+ years
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