Haruki Murakami Books for Beginners

Orange Lightning

Haruki Murakami’s works blend surrealism, magic realism, and deep emotional undertones, making his books uniquely appealing, here are some to know.

Norwegian Wood

Norwegian Wood is a nostalgic and melancholic tale about love, loss, and growing up. 

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Kafka on the Shore

This novel dives into Murakami's signature dreamlike style but is still accessible to new readers.

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After Dark

 After Dark is one of his shorter novels, it takes place over a single night in Tokyo and captures the eerie, dreamlike feeling of the city after hours.

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Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage

This novel is straightforward and emotionally rich, with less of the surreal elements common in his other books.

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South of the Border, West of the Sun

It explores themes of nostalgia, love, and desire, making it a more accessible starting point for Murakami’s style.

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The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle

This novel is one of his most celebrated works, it combines mystery, surrealism, and historical elements in a story that many find mesmerizing.

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What I Talk About When I Talk About Running

This autobiographical book about running and writing offers insights into Murakami's personal life and thought process.

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