In this episode, we are discussing Sayaka Murata, a Japanese bestselling global phenomenon who has won all of Japan’s major literary prizes, and is known for penning Earthlings, Convenience Store Woman, and Life Ceremony.

Join me as we get to know Murata, dive deep into two of her finest works: Convenience Store Woman and Life Ceremony.

Convenience Store Woman is the story of 36-year old Keiko who has never fit in and has been working in a convenience store for 18 years. We follow her story as she navigates domestic relationships through her own unique way, while trying to deal with the pressure of society’s expectations to live a “normal” life.

Life Ceremony is a collection of short stories made of the absurdest, most creative of concepts that center on otherworldly societal settings.

If you have penchant for the bizarre and otherworldly, looking for your next best read from the Japanese lit category, or just plainly on the look-out for some good reads out there— then listen through! ♡

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