The Nakano Thrift Shop: A Novel

So charming and wonderful. One of my favorite Japanese novels. It definitely does not have an American sensibility, but it's not supposed to. I enjoyed going on this journey with a young woman observing the world and figuring out what love means to her.

From 1999 to 2009 I traveled to Japan often and stayed for weeks each time and went most everywhere on three of the four main islands. This book captures the spirit of the Japanese personality perfectly.Definitely not for people who want to know everything about the characters. We don't learn anything about anybody in this book. Not where they are from, if they have siblings, past experiences, or in most cases; what they are thinking.Mr. Nakano, the thrift store owner is married, but nothing is mentioned about his wife or children if he has any children. We ARE introduced to his mistress. We do learn a little bit about their feelings, but only from Hitomi, the narrator. She reports on what she observes and thinks. However, she is often puzzled and sometimes clueless.This book makes spare writing seem complicated, but I enjoyed the story, the setting, and the interaction of the characters. I will happily read more books by Hiromi Kawakami.

I'm a great fan of Japanese fiction, as Japanese writers often approach their subject matter with a reverent, low-key mentality that makes for great literary fiction. No larger-than-life topics, no improbable plots, no heavily (and unrealistically) accentuated characters. Having read Strange Weather in Tokyo by the same author, I expected something similar. Indeed, reading the description of the story - focusing on the complicated relationship between a young man and a young woman working at a thrift shop - I expected even deeper, more complex emotions, a sharper view at the intricacies of human existence in a modern megalopolis.I can't say I'm disappointed I read The Nakano Thrift Shop, but I must admit it right away: not only was it not better than Strange Weather in the way I just described, it wasn't even as good. I think this newest effort lacked the patience and concentration that made Strange Weather such a great book. In Nakano, emotions are diluted over several characters who come and go as unexpectedly as the items of the thrift shop. The author seems to be making things up "on the go", which leaved the reader with a distinct feeling of senselessness. The rhythm of the narrative isn't great, as some scenes come off as eminently underwritten while others occupy an excessive number of pages without any real reason.The relationship between the two characters (that is, the two young employees) is mildly interesting, revealing the social awkwardness that characterizes young inhabitants of cold, heartless urban centers, but it ultimately remains something of a lost opportunity. The ending itself is somewhat unrealistic and disappointing - emphasizing the author's lack of control over the narrative progression.All in all, I can't say it was not an entertaining book to read - perhaps a bit too entertaining; I found it too light-hearted - but I definitely expected more.

Really good book, gives you a craving for the little things in life we take for granted. Each chapter has an object and a story around the object with the workers. It helps widen your eyes to enjoying the company of all the characters. This is not for the easily offended. Also you must have a liking to Japanese literature.

Nakano's, a shop filled with ordinary everyday items and the occasional astounding work of art. The people working and shopping there are portrayed as sensitively and objectively as the items for sale in the shop would be examined by an experienced dealer. Everyday people, flawed and funny, handled gently in masterful language by Ms Kawakami, sensitively translate by Ms Powell.The narrative pace mirrors the pace of sales at the shop, at times slow and thoughtful, and at other times swift and eventful. A novel to be savored like fine wine.

I read the entire book and I'm still not sure what it was about exactly. It just seemed to be a book about nothing. None of the characters were particularly interesting in the least, there was nothing much to care about and there doesn't seem to be much a point to the book. It just ended.

This was a book club pick, but what I'm hearing so far from the others is that we (Japanese and American) are not enamored with it. If you need plot-driven stories, this is not for you. This is a slowly moving, character-driven story of a couple of young people who don't seem to have much character. They are quirky, for sure, and don't know how to communicate with or relate to each other or anyone else. Hiromi narrates her thoughts, wondering if she actually loves co-worker Takeo, a shy loner with little personality. I came away thinking he is just conveniently there all the time so she thinks she might be in love - a concept she doesn't understand well, and she doesn't treat Takeo very well either. The most interesting characters are the shop owner, philandering Mr. Nakano, and his single, artist sister, Masayo. The two of them bring some energy to the story. In the end, I was surprised that Hiromi and Takeo take a little control of their lives. I don't mind slow stories with no plot, but this is a really slow story of minute details, not for everyone. If you look carefully, there are literary devices at work every once in a while. "Somewhere I heard the sound of an engine starting, and then it quickly stopped." Some readers may relate to the bit about the frustrated bee buzzing around.

I am not sure what this was about or what happened in the end, but the reading was a joyful experience in humanity... It is a "slice of life" novel set in a very different cultural milieu than my own, but strangely relatable. Hitomi observes her world and we are in on it. Just read it.

Subtle and offbeat, this was one of the best books I’ve read all year. A page turner I finished in one sitting... I recommend this short story with a strong voice to everyone

The more Japanese literature I read, the more and more I fall in love with it🌤This is a feel good book. Simple and straight.I absolutely adore this author. She is simple, individualistic, particular and introverted sort of.This book is charming. The story revolves around The Nakano thrift shop, which is just like a regular store on the streets of Japan but in there lies such beautiful and completely different characters that will make you wonder.🌤Mr. Nakano, the owner of the store, married 3 times. The man sells all kinds of things- used clothes, old photographs, lighters, plates, etc. You can find all kinds of nick nack here.🌤His sister Masayo, a beautiful woman and a hopeless romantic. She is an artist as well, who comes in to help with the store sometimes.🌤Hitomi, the main character of the story, who was recently hired, spends most of her time in her own little bubble.🌤Takeo, the mysteriously silent Takeo. Helps out with the delivery and pick ups.The book follows them and their bond of friendship and love. It takes you on their journey of life which is both therapeutic and divine🌟It is a simple heartwarming story about love, life, friendship and a little bit of humour.What I love about this book? 💕- I have always been a huge fan of Japanese literature because they give you this warm, cozy feeling.- Nothing great happens in the book. No big plot twist, nothing unexpected, out of the blue story but yet it keeps you interested till the end because you just don’t want this warm feeling to go away❣️I would definitely suggest this book:☀️if you’re looking for something beautiful and light to read.☀️if you want to read something serene, tranquil and calming.

Acheté après des romans formidables d'autres auteurs modernes japonais ( Les Délices de Tokyo; La Papeterie Tsubaki; la République du bonheur). Mais là j'ai calé, rythme trop lent sans la poésie des romans cités. Je n'ai pas pu m'attacher aux personnages, surtout le manager de la brocante, un peu vulgaire.

Loved this book!

feedback about the receipt of the book: excellent condition, it is the edition that I wanted, fast delivery . Looks (even smells) like new.