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(3.75/5)An interesting dive into two different mystery worlds
夜市 isn't a book for a complete beginner, it was my sixth and I still had many words that I needed to look up. On top of that, it's a mystery book that dives into 2 different but somewhat similar parallel worlds - like Chihiro in Spirited Away.
Both stories are melancholic, slightly dark and both touch some topics, that are a bit more mature, like murder.
My biggest problem with reading it was that, unfortunately, I still have trouble understanding somewhat abstract sentenc
Two novellas in one
This book contains two novellas, each unrelated to the other. The first, the titular 夜市, follows two young people as they visit a mysterious night market. The other, 風の古道, follows a young man after he slips into a sort of 'in-between' place while exploring and tries to make it back home. Both stories have a rather melancholy air, and the author does a great job painting a scene in your mind as you read about these admittedly scary places. Each story leaves you with plenty to think about, especia
Unexpected prose from a Japanese author
The first story greets the reader with a typical prose of everyday awkwardness between two individuals, then launches itself into the realm of mystery and supernatural. It was a surprise to see such prose jumping that is only found in modern Western literature.
Both stories are very well paced, but there's a slight over-focus on recalling past events and a lack of dialogue between characters. As such, this creates a fundamental disconnection between characters, and the reader is left to fill in
charming shortstories filled with youkai mystery
This book consists of two short stories, of with both are equally interesting and charming.
There were no boring parts whatsoever and the plot is as unpredictable as the youkai world the protagonists are confronted with is to them.
The writing can be a bit confusing with its changing perspectives but overall not too complex. Still had to look quite a few words tho.