The Strange Library

I bought this book last week because, everybody knows, I really adore Haruki Murakami's writings and want to collect all of his published works. This book is a little bit different with others, because this one is illustrated storybook! Do not expect something long like novel or novella because this book contains only a short story, with cool illustration on each page as an addition. I even can finish it in less than an hour, a very pleasant hour. The illustration succesfully created a different reading experience. Surely, this book seems like a fancy gift for those who are willing to collect Murakami's work.

 This is the synopsis from Goodreads:

On his way home from school, the young narrator of The Strange Library finds himself wondering how taxes were collected in the Ottoman Empire. He pops into the local library to see if it has a book on the subject. This is his first mistake.

Led to a special 'reading room' in a maze under the library by a strange old man, he finds himself imprisoned with only a sheep man, who makes excellent donuts, and a girl, who can talk with her hands, for company. His mother will be worrying why he hasn't returned in time for dinner and the old man seems to have an appetite for eating small boy's brains. How will he escape?

 

I really love the design and packaging. And would love to recommend this book to all of you. Though if you're not a fan of Murakami already, it would be better to spend your money (since this is the most expensive short story that I've ever bought) on Murakami's actual novel or short story collection. But if you're a fan and have already read his other works (and love it), this book is really a nice treat.

Having this book on my bookshelf makes me happy! I think I have to save money to buy another edition (mine is UK edition) since they have different packaging and illustration.

Happy reading!