59 pages • 1 hour read
Norwegian Wood
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Book Brief
296
Novel • Fiction
Tokyo, Japan • 1960s
1987
Adult
18+ years
790L
Super Short Summary
Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami follows Toru Watanabe, who, while reminiscing on his youth in the late 1960s, recounts his complex relationships with two women, Naoko and Midori, while grappling with the death of his best friend. The novel explores themes of love, loss, memory, mental health, and societal expectations through a coming-of-age narrative.
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
657,505 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami captivates with its poignant portrayal of love and loss, set in 1960s Japan. Readers praise its evocative writing and complex characters, resonating deeply on an emotional level. However, some feel the narrative pace can be slow and melancholic themes overwhelming. Overall, it's a compelling, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Norwegian Wood?
A reader who would enjoy Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami is typically drawn to introspective and poignant narratives with a mix of nostalgia and melancholy. Fans of J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye and F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby would likely appreciate Murakami's exploration of young love, loss, and self-discovery.
657,505 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Naoko
Naoko
A beautiful and enigmatic girl who re-enters Watanabe's life, marked by her deep psychological struggles and shared history with him.
Midori
Midori
An outspoken and lively woman from Watanabe's drama class, who contrasts with Naoko and represents a different path for his future.
Reiko Ishida
Reiko Ishida
Naoko's roommate at Ami Hostel, who befriends both Naoko and Watanabe and provides guidance and companionship.
Nagasawa
Nagasawa
A charismatic upperclassman who befriends Watanabe, known for his academic brilliance and morally questionable lifestyle.
Kizuki
Kizuki
Watanabe's best friend and Naoko's boyfriend whose early death profoundly affects the other characters.
Storm Trooper
Storm Trooper
Watanabe's roommate, known for his strict routines and cleanliness, often serves as a source of humorous stories.
296
Novel • Fiction
Tokyo, Japan • 1960s
1987
Adult
18+ years
790L
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