​​It's me again with the Japanese books. This is becoming more than just an interest; it's turning into a full-fledged obsession. Whenever I go to the library, a certain book catches my eye. Then, I check the author and discover that it's a Japanese one.

There's something so magical about the way Japanese authors describe ordinary experiences, transforming them into engaging and vibrant narratives.

That's why I find myself drawn to them time and time again. In fact, it's this unique quality that led me to choose this gem from Murakami. I was simply excited to delve into his world and explore the depths of his storytelling, and I’m sharing my summary and thoughts with you.

Overview of "Men Without Women by Haruki Murakami

"Men Without Women" is a collection of short stories through the lens of various male protagonists, where Murakami crafts a narrative that explores themes of loneliness, isolation, the complexity of relationships, and the perpetual quest for meaning in life.

The way this collection of stories was structured gave me a profound glimpse into the enigmatic world of Murakami's storytelling, where the ordinary is juxtaposed with the surreal, and existential questions linger in the air.

I’d say there are two themes that permeates the book: 

And these can easily resonate deeply with you, maybe not now, maybe not always, but you can sense the character’s profound feelings within you.

It’s simply magical, how Murakami explores the complexities of human relationships and its intricate dynamics that define human imperfect connections.

 that also serves as a central motif, driving the characters to embark on introspective journeys that ultimately lead to profound revelations at the end.

My favorite Quotes from "Men Without Women"

Here I’ll share my favorite quotes, with a brief significance (for me) within the context of the stories explored in this book.

“So in the end maybe that’s the challenge: to look inside your own heart as perceptively and seriously as you can, and to make peace with what you find there. If we hope to truly see another person, we have to start by looking within ourselves.”

By looking deep within ourselves and coming to terms with our own thoughts, feelings, and struggles, we become better equipped to understand the perspectives and emotions of those around us.

“Whether you want to or not. But the place you return to is always slightly different from the place you left. That’s the rule. It can never be exactly the same.”

Change is an inevitable, regardless of your intentions or desires, the passage of time and the experiences accumulated along the way inevitably alter you or your surroundings. Nothing stays the same.

“There were times he thought it would have been far better to never have known. Yet he continued to return to his core principle: that, in every situation, knowledge was better than ignorance. However agonizing, it was necessary to confront the facts. Only through knowing could a person become strong.”

Have you ever felt an internal struggle that sometimes ignorance may seem preferable to knowing difficult or painful truths? But at the same time you know you need to face the truth, no matter how agonizing it is. It’s essential for your growth.

“When I should have felt real pain, I stifled it. I didn’t want to take it on, so I avoided facing up to it. Which is why my heart is so empty now.”

Emotional avoidance and suppression usually leads you to a sense of emptiness or numbness. I’ve been there. I didn’t allow myself to feel genuine pain or sorrow, and chose to stifle those emotions. And this resulted in an empty or hollow feeling, kinda living my life in automatic. I told myself I won’t let myself avoid my feelings anymore.

Murakami's Inspiration and Influences in this book

In "Men Without Women," Murakami shows us guys dealing with feelings of being alone, not fitting in, and trying to figure out what life is all about. It reminded me of Frank Kafka's stuff because it mixes real life with weird stuff and digs into deep thoughts about life and how our minds work.

Also, Murakami's thoughts on being lonely, feeling disconnected, and just being human come from him looking inside himself and watching what's going on around him. He's good at understanding how his characters feel and painting a picture of their emotions, which shows he really gets what it's like to be human.

Alright, let's jump into the intriguing world of "Samsa in Love," one of the captivating stories from this collection.

This story holds a special place for me, thanks to its unique narrative experience that's both thought-provoking and deeply engaging, full of symbolism and emotion.

Now, what was fascinating for me is the subtle connection to Franz Kafka's "Metamorphosis."

"Samsa in Love" presents a fresh perspective on the themes of transformation and identity

, echoing the existential undertones found in Kafka's masterpiece. By drawing inspiration from "Metamorphosis," 

Murakami adds depth and complexity to his own narrative, inviting us to ponder the nature of existence and the human experience.

So, whether you're a fan of Kafka, intrigued by Murakami's storytelling, or simply eager to explore new literary horizons, “Men Without Women” promises you a captivating journey.

Exploring Murakami's "Men Without Women"

I had just finished riding the exhilarating waves of "Steal Like an Artist" when I stumbled upon Austin Kleon's next masterpiece: "Keep Going." Naturally, I couldn't resist diving headfirst into its pages, curious for more of Kleon's offbeat wisdom and unique perspectives.

In "Keep Going," Austin serves up a hearty feast 

of creativity, perseverance, and resilience.

Have you ever felt so into a project, and suddenly the world feels like it’s spinning in fast-forward, so your self-doubt starts calling your name? Then you slowly start losing interest in that particular project, and you simply don’t know how to keep going.

This is when Kleon comes with an arsenal of anecdotes showing you the possibility to dance with the chaos and return to your project, because you need to keep going.

If you’re a seasoned creative, or a person that’s slowly going into the artistic waters, this book is your companion through the seas of creativity.

Need a pep talk on those days when the blank page feels more like a taunt than a canvas? Kleon's got your back with his signature blend of wit and wisdom. He'll nudge you out of your comfort zone, sprinkle a dash of inspiration, and send you off into the wild unknown with a newfound sense of purpose.

At the end, you just need to keep going…

“At the end, you just need to keep going” is like my motto. And even though this book is more focused on the creativity journey of the self, these words really resonate with me in a deeper lever. It’s a beacon of hope in the midst of chaos.

Going back to our creative senses: Kleon reminds us that the key to weathering the storm is simple: keep going. So, go on and embrace the journey, embrace the challenges, and above all, embrace the relentless pursuit of your creative dreams.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a date with my sketchbook.

Keep Going by Austin Kleon - A Guide to Staying Creative in Challenging Times

Back in 2014, I was just a teenager who didn't know much about love. But let me tell you, this book hit me hard. I cried for a whole week after reading it. Fast-forward ten years, and I decided to give it another go. And you know what? It was still worth it. That's why I'm here, sharing my thoughts on this book with you.

Colleen Hoover's books have something that seems to captivate readers time and time again. And I think one of the reasons for this is her ability to take personal stories and transform them into relatable narratives with her engaging writing style.

Whether it's grappling with themes of love, loss, or redemption, she has a knack for tapping into universal emotions and experiences that you can resonate with, easily.

Something I liked about this book is that the narrative moves between past and present, unraveling the intricate relationship between Tate and Miles.

In summary: Tate, moves in with her brother, Corbin, who happens to be Miles's neighbor/colleague. Tate feels attracted to Miles, a pilot with a tragic past that has left him emotionally closed off. Despite Miles's insistence on keeping their relationship strictly physical and devoid of emotional attachment, Tate finds herself falling for him (And Miles for her, but he takes a bit more time to accept that, wow, so typical).

Through heartbreaking flashbacks, you witness Miles's devastating loss in the past (not getting into much detail), and the subsequent guilt and self-imposed emotional exile he experiences as a result. And as Tate learns more about Miles's past, she grapples with her own feelings and the realization that 

What is it with us, women, always trying to fix men?

Miles carries an emotional burden because of a tragic event in his past. This leaves him emotionally scarred, consumed by guilt and grief that he struggles to overcome. His unresolved trauma manifests as a reluctance to fully invest in romantic relationships, leading to his emotionally distant demeanor in his relationship with Tate.

His fear of emotional vulnerability and intimacy acts as a barrier, preventing him from fully opening up to Tate and reciprocating her affection (

) This emotional distance creates tension and conflict between them, as 

Tate and Mile’s relationship: A toxic one?

This was a genuine human relationship, one that defies simple categorization 

 It was a profound journey for Tate and Miles. And what I love about Coollen's books is her commitment to portraying imperfect characters, allowing us the space to both criticize and empathize with their flaws and virtues. They’re humans, after all, 

I consider Tate and Miles's relationship a deeply and complex emotional journey that can be seen as difficult and tumultuous. At its core, their connection is marked by intense passion, intricate understanding and (fckng good) chemistry, drawing them together. 

unresolved grief and guilt was a significant obstacle in their relationship,

 causing tension and heartache for both. Despite their undeniable connection, Miles's emotional turmoil threatens to overshadow their opportunity to love.

In summary, Tate and Miles's relationship in "Ugly Love" is an exploration of love, loss, and emotional vulnerability. With a connection full of passion and understanding, it also has its challenges and conflicts because of Miles's emotional turmoil. Through key moments of intimacy and conflict, their relationship unfolds as a 

captivating yet ultimately bittersweet journey of self-discovery and healing.

"Ugly Love" by Colleen Hoover delves into several key themes, but the central ones would be 

Underscoring complexities of relationships and the resilience of our human spirit when overcoming grief.

Another important theme is the concept of 

 and its impact on relationships, acting as a barrier to fully move on and opening to other connections.

There’s also a recurring theme in this book: Healing and redemption. Miles and Tate are forced to confront their wounds and go into a journey of healing.

Oh and, Miles is a pilot, what could be the theme or symbol there? I think it represents an escape for Miles. His need to escape his past pain, but also symbolizes the capability to transcend his limitations and finally get free of his suffering with love and vulnerability.

While it's tempting to compare the depth of Miles's love for Tate with his love for Rachel, I think that would be like totally missing the point. I’m a firm believer, each relationship holds its own significance and impact on our life’s journey.

I can’t deny Miles shared a profound connection with Rachel, marked by significant moments and experiences that have left a lasting imprint on his heart. Their bond was genuine and meaningful, but it was also marked by tragedy. However, the fact that Miles has moved on and found love with Tate doesn't diminish the love he felt for Rachel. 

People come into our lives in different times with different purposes,

 and the love we feel for them is valid and unique to each relationship.

This made me think of our human nature that usually make us want to be "the first" or "the only" person in someone else's life. But at the end, this obsession with exclusivity can be unrealistic. Previous relationships should not be used to invalidate your present ones or viceversa. I think humans can love multiple people throughout their lives, 

each relationship offering its own lessons and growth opportunities.

Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover - Thoughts and reading journey

I often saw creativity as a mysterious force that strikes you in moments of divine inspiration. But then I got kinda obsessed with the topic, and started to imagine (and read about it), 

what if creativity could be cultivated intentionally, drawing from different influences and ideas?

 And this is exactly what Austin Kleon explored in this well-crafted piece of book: “Steal like An Artist”

At first, you read the word ‘stealing’ and maybe you raise your eyebrows, wondering how can this be good? Are we talking about plagiarism or unethical behaviour in the act of creating art?

The essence of the plot lies in the rat of borrowing, remixing and transforming existing ideas into something new. 

And you shouldn’t be surprised, because this is something that’s been going on for decades.

It also reminded me of something I read some time ago: 

You think your thoughts and ideas are yours, but they’re simply not. 

They’re the mix of many things before you, maybe your ancestors, your friends, your family, everything around you has made you, you. And that’s okay.

gives you the chance to embrace the idea of creative theft in a positive light. It's about 

recognizing that nothing is entirely original, and that all creative work builds upon what came before it.

I’d say this is the remixed version of what Picasso said before: 

"Good artists copy, great artists steal."

Austin delves into various principles and strategies for embracing this mindset of creative theft. He emphasizes 

the importance of studying the work of others, embracing influence, and embracing constraints as catalysts for creativity.

Kleon encourages readers to curate their influences, remix ideas, and share their work generously with the world.

One of the central messages of "Steal Like an Artist" is the idea of 

embracing limitations and constraints as creative fuel.

Rather than viewing limitations as obstacles, Kleon argues that they can serve as creative prompts, pushing artists to think outside the box and find innovative solutions.

How I implement "Steal Like an Artist" in my creative process

How did I start to apply these principles to my own creative work? I immersed myself in different influences, but I mainly started with what I really like, what really fills my soul: 

Books, sunsets, photography, dogs, writing, poems, human emotions.

 collection of quotes, ideas, images that resonate with your soul

, and you’ll see how you’ll start to draw inspiration from all of this.

The most important thing is to embrace the concept of repurposing existing ideas, because that’s how the world keeps going. 

If you start paying attention, you’ll see “original” doesn’t exist. It always comes from something else.

The good thing is that you can mix different elements from here and there, and create something new and unexpected. And if you like it, you already won.

Is "Steal Like an Artist" Worth Reading? Review and testimonial

I'm reaching out to the creative souls among us, and even to those who claim they lack creativity but deep down feel it beckoning: 

And that’s thanks to Austin’s super easy writing style and practical advice through random and imperfect sketches.

So…whether you're an aspiring artist, writer, designer, or simply someone seeking inspiration in your everyday life, 

I’m sure "Steal Like an Artist" gives valuable lessons that can transform the way you approach creativity

Further Exploration of "Steal Like an Artist"

Finishing this up, I’d like to say "Steal Like an Artist" is not just a book; it's a mindset—a philosophy that challenges traditional notions of creativity and empowers individuals to embrace their influences, remix ideas, and create something truly unique. So go ahead, steal like an artist, and unleash your creativity to the world.

If you’re feeling stuck in your creativity, g

ive this book a chance to remind you that it’s not about being original, but about being yourself and doing something you enjoy.

Steal Like an Artist: Embrace that nothing is original and start creating something 

A book that took me on a wonderful adventure through the streets of 

 following different characters and their connections with 

Everything was so vivid and easy to picture in my mind, that I found myself getting attached to the characters as I read on. Each chapter felt like a new piece of a puzzle, slowly revealing how everyone's lives intertwined.

I loved to see the city from a different angle, through the eyes of a curious cat (and I love cats). And that also kept me engaged from beginning to end. And although I haven’t been to Tokyo, the author’s writing style and way of describing things helped me to imagine how everything could be there.

The plot in the cat and the city is alive, intricate, and always changing. Just like I picture Tokyo on my mind.

Each character's tale is like a piece of a big puzzle, and the author, kind of dances between them all. The pacing keeps you hooked, and there are these cool surprises that really spice up the whole story. Yeah, sometimes it might seem a bit jumbled, but it's just like life, isn't it? Unpredictable and messy, but that's what makes it so interesting.

Nick Bradley’s writing style, how is it?

Bradley's way of telling a story is pretty neat. He paints a vivid picture of Tokyo with words that make you feel like you're right there in the city's hustle and bustle.

His tone is kind of thoughtful and caring, and he doesn't make things overly complicated. The descriptions and pictures he paints are spot-on, and they really help you connect with the characters and their world.

He uses metaphors and stuff, but it's not like he's trying to be all fancy—it just adds layers to the story without making it a tough read. So yeah, his writing style totally helps you dive into Tokyo's vibes and the characters' emotions without any hassle.

The book's portrayal of Tokyo as a character itself underscores the universal quest for belonging and connection in an ever-changing world. Nick Bradley's exploration of themes such as

 loneliness, love, and the transient nature of existence

 resonated with me on a personal level, making me reflect on my own connections and experiences.

The characters in this book are a diverse and well-crafted bunch. They each have their own motivations, strengths, and weaknesses, and they evolve throughout the story, contributing to the impact of Nick’s narrative.


Final thoughts - Should I read it or should I go?

After checking my blog, you should notice by now that I only write about books that somehow touches my soul. And this was one of them, so yeah, I'd read it again before I go...

The Cat and the City by Nick Bradley – Honest review with no spoilers

So, we're talking about this cool book called "Kitchen" by Banana Yoshimoto. It's not your typical read, and trust me, it's got some vibes. Picture this: Mikage navigating life's twists and turns – grief, love, and all that good stuff. Now, let's chat about how Yoshimoto spins her words and what makes "Kitchen" a standout in the literary scene.

Alright, let's keep it short and sweet. "Kitchen" is about Mikage and her journey through life's ups and downs. Loss, love, self-discovery – it's all in there. Yoshimoto doesn't spill all the beans, but the plot is authentic and relatable. You'll feel the realness without getting spoiled.

So, what's the deal with "Kitchen"? I liked it for the deep emotions and how Yoshimoto handles complex themes. Some say it's a bit predictable, but hey, that's life, right? Overall, it's made a mark in literature, and I was deeply engaged with Yoshimoto's storytelling. 

Yoshimoto's writing is like a smooth groove. It's elegant yet straightforward, sprinkled with metaphors that hit you in the feels. The tone is like a quiet conversation, and the language has this deep vibe. Reading it feels like a chill exploration, you know? Easy to get into, but it leaves you thinking.

good playlist – well-paced and hitting the right notes.

 It flows, twists, and turns, keeping you hooked. No confusing stuff; it's a smooth ride from start to finish. Yoshimoto's got the structure game on point.

Mikage and the crew aren't just characters; they're real people in book form. Motivations, strengths, weaknesses – they're all here, making the story feel legit. Yoshimoto crafts them like a pro, adding that extra spice to the whole reading experience.

Feels Alert! Exploring the Emotions in Kitchen

"Kitchen" hit me in my feels. It's not just a story; it's an emotional rollercoaster. Grief, love, self-discovery – I was on a ride, and it stuck with me. Yoshimoto's themes resonate with life's ups and downs, making it relatable on a whole other level.

Death Talk – What's the Theme in "Kitchen"?

Death gets real in "Kitchen," but it's not grim. It's more about looking inwards, facing life's fragility, and appreciating the good stuff. Yoshimoto keeps it deep without getting too heavy.

The kitchen is like the heart of the story, you know? It's where characters find comfort and change. Symbolic vibes going on, adding that extra layer to the whole deal.

This book is more than just words on paper. Yoshimoto's style, the plot twists, and the emotional punch make it a must-read. Whether you're a lit buff or just looking for something different, "Kitchen" is that friend who leaves a mark. Totally recommend it for a chill, thought-provoking read that'll stay with you.

 Diving into the Heart of "Kitchen" by Banana Yoshimoto

Before we begin, rest assured that my review is spoiler-free.

Lately, without realizing it, I’ve been reading many books by Japanese writers. This one was the first by Murakami that I read.

Imagine a quiet, sunlit afternoon when the world seems to stand still, and memories of the past whisper in your ear… This is the essence of Haruki Murakami's "South of the Border, West of the Sun."

The book took me on a journey through the life of Hajime, a man who, in his youth, shared a deep connection with Shimamoto, a mysterious girl. As they grow older, they drift apart, but the memories of their brief friendship continue to haunt Hajime.

Murakami’s melancholic and minimalist writing style kept me engaged during the whole journey. His prose is fluid, and he effortlessly blends the ordinary with the extraordinary. The way he describes things is almost meditative, painting pictures with words. He's got a knack for blending everyday life with the slightly surreal, making you wonder if you've just stepped into a dream.

I’d say this novel explores themes of nostalgia, lost love, and the search for meaning and fulfilment in life. It's all about love, choices, and the paths we take.

Although I loved Murakami’s writing style, I wasn’t able to connect with their characters, or really understand what’s going on with them.

Hajime (the protagonist) is somewhat elusive and lacking in depth. Even with some of his actions being relatable, I felt like I wante to know more about his motivations and inner turmoil.

Sinamoto, the enigmatic character from Hajime’s past, remains as a mystery throughout much of the novel, when she suddenly appears again to show you…nothing.

But anyway, despite some character-related hiccups, the book resonates with that universal longing for something more, something just out of reach. And if this speaks to you, then this is a book worth reading.

South of the border, west of the sun - My reading journey and thoughts 

Within the realm of literature dedicated to mental health, “An Unquiet Mind” emerges as a profound exploration of the human psyche. Crafted by psychiatrist Kay Redfield Jamison, this memoir serves as a guide through the intricate terrain of emotions and psychological turbulence.

 powerful testament to the human experience with mental health.

 Jamison, renowned for her expertise in psychiatry, offers a unique perspective by intertwining her professional knowledge with personal struggles. The memoir invite to confront the complexities of bipolar disorder and the profound impact it has on one’s life and those around us.

In a nutshell, this memoir unfolds as a raw and honest account of Jamison’s own battles with bipolar disorder. From the initial recognition of symptoms to the ongoing management of the condition, the narrative navigates the highs and lows, offering a glimpse into the daily struggles and triumphs associated with mental health.

Jamison’s narrative is not merely a clinical examination; it is a deeply personal exploration of her own experiences. 

Her openness and vulnerability let us to connect with the material on a profound level, fostering empathy and understanding.

This memoir has really won over both critics and readers. It’s made a big splash in the world of mental health literature, and everyone’s singing praises for Jamison’s bravery in opening up about her experiences. Awards and positive reviews have solidified “An Unquiet Mind” as a standout piece in the field.

Apart from its clinical side, the memoir really highlights Jamison’s writing skills. The way she effortlessly combines scientific know-how with captivating storytelling takes “An Unquiet Mind” to a whole new level. It’s not just your typical autobiography; it’s a must-read for folks who love literature too.

To wrap it up, “An Unquiet Mind” is like a literary treasure that goes beyond the usual memoirs. It’s a proof of how strong we can be dealing with our mental health. Whether you’re after a gripping story or trying to get a handle on bipolar disorder, Kay Redfield Jamison’s masterpiece is a trip totally worth taking.

Unravelling “An Unquiet Mind”

a novel by Coco Mellors. This book was highly recommended by a friend, making it a truly valuable reading experience.

Picture this: Cleopatra and Frankenstein, two iconic names hailing from entirely different realities, somehow find themselves intertwined in the same narrative.

skillfully weaves an exhilarating tale where Cleopatra awakens in modern times, bringing with her a considerable amount of historical baggage in the form of her age-old adversary, Frankenstein. The journey that unfolds is a captivating blend of history and science fiction, taking us on a wild and utterly unpredictable ride.

Trigger warning for Cleopatra and Frankenstein:

Some of the difficult topics that are presented in this book are: 

Suicide, depression, alcoholism, drugs and infidelity.

You may want to read reviews or summaries of the book to confirm whether it contains content that might be distressing for you.

Coco Mellors serves up words like a fresh batch of cookies – sweet, easy to gobble down, and just a bit unexpected. Her tone balances the absurd with the heartfelt, keeping you curious about what’s coming next.

Coco isn’t afraid to toss in metaphors and imagery that paint vivid mental pictures, making the reading experience feel like you’re watching a film play out. Sometimes, the story takes unexpected detours that might make you raise an eyebrow, but it’s all part of the quirky charm.

I must say that, although I didn’t fall in love with the story at the beginning, I really liked Coco’s writing style.

I have to confess that Cleo and her bunch of friends were a bit hard to get with. People complaining about their 1st world problems? (like “having a British passport and not the American visa to finish my art studies”). Hmm, okay? Maybe it’s just me not being compassionate enough, I guess.

But it’s also true that as the story rolled on, I got interested and wanted to know more about the characters. And I realized at some point that they were not the usual heroes you root for from the start, but their imperfections somehow make them feel more real.

Special mention to Eleanor, that was for sure my favourite character, and the one that saved this book.

Is Cleopatra and Frankenstein a romance book?

The main focus of the book is not romance, but you’ll have your dose of bittersweet romance, yes.

The themes of time, identity, and friendship blend in seamlessly, causing a powerful mix of emotions – confusion, laughter, and even a touch of sympathy. And hey, it’s more than just an oddball adventure; it made me think about the absurdity of life and how even the most unlikely connections can teach us a thing or two. Is it not romantic?

Cleopatra and Frankenstein – Honest review

"Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro. It's not your run-of-the-mill story; it's got this haunting vibe that sticks with you. So, buckle up for a journey into Ishiguro's dystopian creation that's been turning heads in the lit world.

Breaking Down Ishiguro’s Writing Style with Never Let Me Go

Ishiguro's writing style is like a chill playlist. Tone, language, metaphors – it all comes together to make the story pop. Find out how his words amp up the reading experience in this laid-back analysis.

Let's talk about how Ishiguro spins his yarn in "Never Let Me Go." The plot keeps you hooked with unexpected twists, and the whole journey feels like a smooth ride with a clear start, middle, and a wowza ending.

Let's get real about the characters in "Never Let Me Go." Ishiguro crafts them with vibes – motivations, strengths, weaknesses – it's all in there. These characters aren't just cool; they're relatable and add serious punch to the story.

Get ready for some real talk about the feels in "Never Let Me Go." The themes hit close to home, and we'll explore how this dystopian ride taps into societal vibes. It's not just a book; it's a feels trip.

The Verdict – Should You Check It Out? 

To wrap it up, "Never Let Me Go" isn't just a book; it's a journey. Ishiguro crafts a tale that sticks with you, and whether you're into dystopia or just looking for something cool to read, this one's worth checking out. So, grab a copy, kick back, and get ready for a trip into the unexpected with Never Let Me Go.

A reading journey.

Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro - Honest review