風の歌を聴け

This is the first book I've read by Murakami. From what I understand, it is his first novel, and he hates it. He has removed its publication (at least in English) and it is difficult to find. However, what a remarkable book this is. Especially is this is truly his first novel, it has such confidence and ease. There is no performative aspect to it, like he has still learning to be a novelist. The story is spare, and odd, but with aching beauty in moments. It is really great. I'm eager to continue through his oeuvre, reading the next book in this “Rat” series, “Pinball, 1974”, another book he did not want published in English any longer. But still, I can tell I am going to have a real love for the works of Murakami.

This book is proto-Murakami through and through. Though it lacks the surreal elements that characterize many of his later works, Hear the Wind Sing succinctly captures his style and writerly ethos. While it is not my favorite of his works and I would not recommend that someone read this one first, the book is great for what it is. Fans of Murakami may find it worth reading for the introduction alone, in which he tells the story of how he became a novelist.