By Stella Feenstra, Digital Social Media and Advertising Editor
Sayaka Murata’s “Convenience Store Woman” is a book written for individuals who got a part-time job in their young adulthood that they were simply too emotionally attached to leave. In other words, this novel was written for me.
Much like Sayaka Murata’s other works, “Convenience Store Woman” artistically explores themes of non-conformity and the struggles of settling into adult life.
For the main character, Keiko Furakura, her job at the Smile Mart defines her. She diligently honors her role as “store worker,” knowing exactly what items need stocking based on the weather each day and the tone of voice in which to greet customers.
After 18 years of working at the Smile Mart, Keiko faces pressure from her family and friends to get a “real job” and get married. These are the sole expectations in her society.
If Keiko continues living her life as is, she will likely be prosecuted. If she conforms, she will have to disregard her passion for the convenience store; letting go of that piece of her soul.
With all this said, and without spoilers, Murata executes this tension in a careful and captivating manner. Never once does she mock Keiko for her desire to work as a cashier.
Murata’s vivid descriptions make the store feel like a living, breathing entity with Keiko at the heart. The pages are filled with the kind of well-crafted writing that transports the reader right into the world of the character. This book is so in touch with what it feels like to be human.
The novel itself, totaling about 160 pages, is compact. Its straightforwardness allows for an easy read. The plot doesn’t necessarily have any wild twists and turns, but the absurdity of it all will pull you back in.
Murata has a talent for writing contemporary fiction that breaks the boundaries of normality. If you are looking for an introduction to her writing, or this kind of work, I would recommend “Convenience Store Woman.”
Alternatively, if you end up reading this novel and are ready to get a bit wackier, I would strongly advise checking out another one of Murata’s works, “Earthlings.” As always though, it’s a great idea to look into the content warnings before reading.
If you are interested in writing book, film, or other media reviews, please reach out to the Quill or the A&E Editor, Haley Zeller, at zeller@susqu.edu.