
"Heaven" by Mieko Kawakami is a powerful and disturbing book that delves into the theme of bullying at a middle school. The novel explores the experiences of two victims, a nameless boy with a lazy eye and a girl named Kajima, who form an unlikely friendship born out of suffering and weakness. Through detailed episodes of bullying, the author sheds light on the pain and endurance of the victims, while also providing profound observations on the human condition and the impact of cruelty on individuals.
The writing style of "Heaven" is described as compelling and thought-provoking, with characters that are unique and convincingly portrayed. Mieko Kawakami's narrative not only presents a realistic depiction of bullying but also offers insights into the thoughts and feelings of both victims and bullies. The novel challenges readers to bear witness to discomfort and unease, highlighting the importance of awareness and inspiring change for the betterment of society.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings for Heaven include high levels of bullying, graphic violence, mental health issues, themes of isolation, and emotional distress.
From The Publisher:
'Mieko Kawakami is a genius' - Naoise Dolan, author of Exciting Times
From the bestselling author of Breasts and Eggs and international literary sensation Mieko Kawakami, comes a sharp and illuminating novel about a fourteen-year-old boy subjected to relentless bullying.
In Heaven, a fourteen-year old boy is tormented for having a lazy eye. Instead of resisting, he chooses to suffer in silence. The only person who understands what he is going through is a female classmate, Kojima, who experiences similar treatment at the hands of her bullies. Providing each other with immeasurable consolation at a time in their lives when they need it most, the two young friends grow closer than ever. But what, ultimately, is the nature of a friendship when your shared bond is terror?
Unflinching yet tender, sharply observed, intimate and multi-layered, this simple yet profound novel stands as yet another dazzling testament to Mieko Kawakami's uncontainable talent. There can be little doubt that it has cemented her reputation as one of the most important young authors at work today.
'An expertly told, deeply unsettling tale of adolescent violence' - Vogue
Translated from the Japanese by David Boyd and Sam Bett.
Ratings (27)
Incredible (6) | |
Loved It (10) | |
Liked It (7) | |
It Was OK (4) |
Reader Stats (56):
Read It (28) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (25) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
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1 comment(s)
3.5 stars
A 14-year old boy with a lazy eye, called as "Eyes" is bullied in most horrendous ways possible by his classmates. He finds a unique friendship in Kojima, his another classmate who is also a victim of bullying. They write letters to each other which talks about normal stuff in life except the bullying.
"Eyes" and Kojima are both of different background and personality. "Eyes" wants to know why his classmates like bullying but Kojima thinks every suffering has a deeper meaning and value.
This is a chilling and hard hitting novel. The conversation between "Eyes" and one of his bullies about the reason of bullying is something shocking and the bully's mindset was what shook me. I would not say I liked the novel but it is different than what I usually read.
Happy Reading!!
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