Convenience Store Woman: A Novel

“When morning comes, once again I'm a convenience store worker, a cog in society. This is the only way I can be a normal person.”

This book was highly rated by my book club. We had a good discussion about how reading can enhance the human capacity for empathy. My understanding of the experience of living on the autism spectrum was deepened by this book. It was also interesting insight into Japanese culture. One of our members had lived in Japan and could relate to that aspect of the book as well. I am writing this review weeks after having read it because I feel the need to counter balance a negative review I just came across. Even with so much time passed I can still recall vivid images and scenes. I am not sure this was a particularly enjoyable read but the book added value to my life and sparked an intelligent and interesting book club conversation.

she’s so goated. i had to stop reading every few minutes to highlight a line and think: MY GOAT

this book was very unique and slightly off putting. i enjoyed it and i think i’ll think about it for a while. i liked the extra essay at the end.

thinking about this more… it feels like maybe this book was just a way to say “hey look at this kind of person!” and see what people’s reactions are. because seeing the reactions on goodreads in different reviews (some think it’s funny, some are horrified, etc) has honestly done more for me than just reading the book did. so maybe useful as a discussion piece!

edit: just read some reviews and maybe 3 stars…. it’s hard for me to say. i originally gave it 4 because it was strong in its vibes like it really was just one thing but maybe that’s not worth a whole star

The dumbest book I have ever read. I am very surprised I did not DNF this, but I figured there had to be a point or something interesting coming up..but NOPE!!! That is a few hours of my life, I could have used to read something worth while..Such an awful waste of paper/kindle bits. :(