64 pages • 2 hours read
Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World
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Book Brief
Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985400
Novel • Fiction
Tokyo • Alternate Reality
1985
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World by Haruki Murakami intertwines two alternating narratives: a futuristic Tokyo where a Calcutec encodes risky data and a mythical Town at the end of the world where residents lose memories. Both narratives follow the same protagonist as he navigates challenges, encounters unique characters, and faces an impending, ambiguous fate.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Fantastical
Melancholic
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
146,267 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Haruki Murakami's Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World merges surreal fantasy with noir elements, captivating readers with its imaginative dual narrative. Positive reviews praise its originality and depth, while critiques point to its occasional convoluted plotting. Overall, it is lauded for thought-provoking themes and unique storytelling, resonating with Murakami fans.
Who Should Read Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World?
Readers who enjoy Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World typically appreciate surreal, genre-blending narratives with elements of science fiction and fantasy. Fans of Franz Kafka's The Trial or Philip K. Dick's Ubik may find its intricate plot and existential themes engaging. Ideal for those who love exploring complex, imaginative worlds.
146,267 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Professor
The Professor
An unnamed older man who creates a surgical procedure related to the narrator's mind and speaks with a notable accent resembling a pre-War figure, often seen as a mentor who assigns complex tasks.
The Professor’s Granddaughter
The Professor’s Granddaughter
A competent and confident 17-year-old girl who aids the narrator throughout his journey, known for her distinctive pink attire and skills learned from her grandfather.
The Librarian(s)
The Librarian(s)
The primary love interest in both narrative strands; in the Tokyo storyline, she aids in research, while at the end of the world, she helps the narrator adapt to his new surroundings.
400
Novel • Fiction
Tokyo • Alternate Reality
1985
Adult
18+ years
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