I tend to shy away from shorter novels because I like the investment of time with a full novel. I feel the connection to the characters and the emotions in play are much stronger in a 400 page novel than that of a quick read. There is the rare exception though, and these three short stories are definitely worth the read!

When the Emperor Was Divine by Julie Otsuka

In this quick but powerful read, Julie Otsuka dives into the 1940’s after the attack on Pearl Harbor. It is a dark period of our National History that Otsuka flays open for all to see. Through five separate points of view, When the Emperor Was Divine portrays the experience of Japanese-Americans as they are imprisoned, discriminated and judged by their once-neighbors. Heart-wrenching and thought provoking – I highly recommend.

Life For Sale by Yukio Mishima

Hanio Yamada reached his limit in life. However, his suicide attempt failed. So, in return, he decides to place his life for sale to serve someone else in his final exit. Yamada is hired on by clients to serve an outlandish array of seemingly deadly tasks. In a strange turn of events, Yamada somehow finds himself surviving an abundance of vengeful, secretive and sometimes comical missions placed before him by his clients. The concept is serious and could be an incredibly grim story, but Mishima creates such ludicrous tasks that it adds sparks of humor (or disbelief). Entertaining and engaging – worth the read.

Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami

Norwegian Wood follows a young college man (Toru) on his journey through life – experiencing tragedy, love, ambition, curiosity. We meet Toru just after his move to Tokyo to attend University. His journey is mirrored by that of Naoki – a young female who has also recently moved to Tokyo for her studies. Toru and Naoki are bound together by a childhood tragedy, but have dealt with this tragedy in starkly different ways. Norwegian Wood has a depressing tone to it through most of the novel, but there are touches of light. It is a quick read but emotional. Worth your time!