Govind

The novel starts off slow but soon picks up pace. It's a really immersive read with us feeling attentive and paying close attention to all the small details. You feel as if something big is going to go down anytime. The author has done an excellent job in conveying what the character might have felt. There is this real eeriness of being watched, that you can feel from reading the book. The book is more relevant than ever in this age of smart things. We can kind of allude to the current state of constant tracking, targeted ads and a feeling of lack of privacy to how the characters are being watched in the novel. The phrase ‘Big Brother is watching you' has evolved from a mere literary reference into a ubiquitous phrase. Overall, the novel is really good and it's one of those must read recommendations from me.

Some of the short stories were really good and some just alright. And didn't like one much at all (An independent organ). I didn't think too much of the book after just finishing but I kept coming back to some of the stories later on. Reread scheherazade and drive my car after starting the drive by car movie.Samsa in love was hilarious. Loved the blunt talk by the female character. The story was different from what I have read usually. Overall I really enjoyed the book. I doubt definitely recommend it and it's a good first Murakami to try out. The first story ‘Drive My Car' has been adapted into an Oscar winning movie that I loved watching. It's a great movie worth the watch. If you liked the book, definitely check the movie out also.

It was more predictable than his other work, but still overall alright.

I read this years ago as a kid and was hooked. I remember reading all three books back-to-back.Looking back now, the issues with the book are more apparent. The author's language is kind of verbose, and he uses complex words a lot, seemingly for the sake of it.There are way too many side characters with no impact, and the story could be much more streamlined.That said, I still like this book. I love the unique approach of explaining mythical aspects with science—that's something new.The premise was new to me back then. The book is engaging and not boring at all, despite the flaws.So, even though the first book ends inconclusively, it's worth a read if you're curious about Indian mythology-inspired fantasy.