64 pages 2 hours read

Haruki Murakami

Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985

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Before You Read

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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.

Reviews & Readership

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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 this

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.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Fantasy

Magical Realism

Japanese Literature

Topics

Technology

Love / Sexuality

Period

Existentialism

Asian Literature

Themes

Life/Time: Mortality & Death

Emotions/Behavior: Memory

Identity: Masculinity