A READING EXPERIENCE UNLIKE ANY OTHER

The Strange Library

by Haruki Murakami & Chip Kidd (Illustrator)

Knopf | 2014

Opening the flaps on this unique little book, readers will find themselves immersed in the strange world of best-selling Haruki Murakami's wild imagination. The story of a lonely boy, a mysterious girl, and a tormented sheep man plotting their escape from a nightmarish library, the book is like nothing else Murakami has written. Designed by Chip Kidd and fully illustrated, in full color, throughout, this small format, 96 page volume is a treat for book lovers of all ages.

Reading Murakami is always an experience. He is a magnificent writer whom I consider absurd, ambitious, provocative, and experimental. He consistently delivers new, compelling plots. I highly recommend his short stories, but if you want to read his books, start with Norwegian Wood and working up to his magical realism novels. 

The Strange Library is the perfect book for your commute. Its short length, creepy plot, and novel format are sure to drown out commuters and make it more bearable.

The short length is great for people who want to cram in some reading into their busy day: a brief escape from reality. However, it is also a curse because it ends at an impasse. I found that infuriating because I like, nay need, closure: when I finish reading the book, I should stop thinking about the what-ifs. 

I am surprised this book's demographic is kids. I would think this book would further deter children from reading, as this book instills a fear of libraries. The story is about a boy who goes to a library and inquires a librarian about some books; little does the boy know that this old librarian has a wicked plot to eat his brains and steal his knowledge. This librarian traps the boy under the library and forces him to commit the books he requested to memory. Although the boy is miserable, he a sheep man that fries him fresh donuts and a pretty girl that brings delicious food keep him company. Now you understand why I find his novels absurd (in a good way!) The plot is fast-paced, Murakami brings to life the boy's books, and the ending is a whirlwind that leaves you shocked in the aftermath. It's weird and out there, but it is refreshing, like an unexpected, yet delicious ice-cream flavor. 

The book design truly enhances the storytelling. There is a flap that protects the book (as if to protect you from the contents.) This flap also serves as a "cover," as the first page starts once you open the flap. Most of the text is accompanied by beautiful illustrations.