First Person Singular, another confusing mesmerising book by Murakami.

When I heard that Haruki Murakami was coming out with a new book I was quick to buy it and as soon as it came, to read it. His 22nd book is a collection of 8 first-person singular tales which mostly take a Murakami similar style. Most of the stories are full of colour and have a nostalgic-like feeling that all Murakami have to have on me. They mostly talk about music, sex, and other mundane things. It is an interesting read and if you enjoy Murakami book you will for sure enjoy this one..

The first story is Cream which might be one of my favourites. It is bizarre and strange, but it discusses a complex idea that makes you question yourself throughout. Not everything makes sense and not everything has a reason to it. The narrator finds himself in a weird and inexplicable situation that never seems to get solved. This tale was addictive as you find yourself looking for answers that never exist.

The second story is On a Stone Pillow which takes us through another story that talks about an inexplicable feeling. What I most enjoy about this one is the tanka poetry used. I loved that it was well written and not only for the story itself. I enjoyed the feelings that our narrator was feeling when reading those poems as it is how I feel when I read the poetry. It was very raw and I really enjoyed that.

Charlie Parker Plays Bossa Nova was also an excellent story. It was bizarre and unforgettable. I sometimes think about the possibility slitty of this happening to me. This one has to be one of my favourite ones too as I still think about it.

With the Beatles, feels like a Sally Rooney novel and I love that. It is a simple heartbreaking story that includes Murakami’s love for music. Murakami has been using his love for music in many of his novels but the description of the girl holding the record really touched my heart. That might have been my favourite descriptions by him in all stories and books.

The fifth story brings back the strange and bizarre Murakami style. A talking monkey with a strange talent. This was a magical and bizarre story that was equally entertaining. This, has to be one of the best out of the 8 as it really shows Murakami through the words.

The sixth story is Carnaval which has the best opening to anything ever. It’s snappy and funny. The rest of the story is quite mundane but thanks to that opening the whole story deserves a read.

Then comes the seventh story. It’s actually not a story but a small glimpse into Murakami’s love for baseball and poetry of that love. I can say that this has to be my least favourite. It’s not entertaining and if I am completely honest, I hated the poetry itself.

The final story is the best ending for a short story collecting. It was fun to read, and it was also the best magical of the 8th. The ending leaves us Wirth our mouths open hoping to have an explanation or a sequel to the fantastic conclusion.

I have to say that this was not the best Murakami book I have read, but it was still entertaining. The few stories I really enjoyed I will recommend but, the rest I cannot say they are worth the read.