The release date for the English version of 'Heaven' by
Mieko Kawakami is May 2021. If you enjoy this novel, it is available for buy as a paperback from Barnes & Noble or Indigo, as an ebook on the Amazon Kindle store, or as an audiobook on Audible.
Kawakami's story, which has been hailed as a daring venture into uncharted literary ground, is narrated in the narrative of a 14-year-old pupil who is tortured mercilessly for having a lazy eye. The youngster decides to suffer in total surrender rather than to fight back. Only a female student who experiences comparable abuse at the hands of her tormentors can relate to what he is going through.
These unvarnished and realistic depictions of bullying are complemented with a nuanced explanation of the theological and philosophical arguments behind the use of violence against the weak.
Kawakami's recent, straightforward but deep work is a stunning example of her literary prowess. Without a question, it has strengthened her standing as one of the most significant up-and-coming writers striving to push the limits of modern Japanese literature.