What are some of the best new Japanese novels?

A modern classic is 'Kafka on the Shore' also by Haruki Murakami. This novel combines elements of the magical and the real. It tells the stories of two characters, Kafka Tamura, a young boy who runs away from home, and Nakata, an old man with a strange ability, and how their paths cross in unexpected ways.

One of the best is 'Norwegian Wood' by Haruki Murakami. It's a story full of love, loss, and self - discovery. The characters are complex and the writing style is very engaging. Another great one is 'The Tale of Genji' which is considered a classic. It gives a deep look into the Heian period of Japan, with its detailed descriptions of court life, relationships, and cultural norms.

One notable work could be 'Kafka on the Shore' by Haruki Murakami. His unique blend of magical realism and exploration of the human psyche makes it a standout. Another might be 'Norwegian Wood' which delved deep into themes of love and loss in a very Japanese context. There are also works by Banana Yoshimoto that often feature in such collections, known for her simple yet profound writing style about relationships and self - discovery.

One of the best is 'The Devotion of Suspect X' by Keigo Higashino. It has a brilliant plot with a mathematician using his skills to create an alibi for a neighbor suspected of murder. Another great one is 'Out' by Natsuo Kirino, which delves into the lives of four women working the night shift at a factory and the dark secrets they hold. Also, 'Ring' by Koji Suzuki is well - known for its terrifying and mysterious story about a cursed videotape.

One of the best is 'Fullmetal Alchemist'. It has a complex and engaging story that delves deep into themes like sacrifice, redemption, and the search for truth. The characters are well - developed, and the world - building is excellent.

Some of the best Japanese kids novels include 'Howl's Moving Castle' by Diana Wynne Jones (translated into Japanese). It features a magical, moving castle and a young girl's adventures within it. 'Ponyo' is also a wonderful one. It is based on the popular Studio Ghibli film and the book has beautiful illustrations and a heart - warming story for kids. Then there's 'The Tale of Genji', which is a classic. Although it was written long ago, it can be introduced to kids in an abridged form, showing them the unique culture and society of old Japan.

Well, 'Kafka on the Shore' is a very popular and well - translated Japanese novel. The translation manages to convey the surreal and complex narrative of Murakami. Also, 'Kitchen' by Banana Yoshimoto is great. The translated version captures the simplicity and the deep emotional undertones of the story about family, loss and new beginnings.

One of the well - known best - selling Japanese novels is 'Norwegian Wood' by Haruki Murakami. It's a story that delves into themes of love, loss, and coming - of - age. The vivid descriptions of the characters' emotions and the unique writing style have made it extremely popular not only in Japan but also around the world.

There are many great works that could be in '100 best japanese novels'. 'Naoko' by Banana Yoshimoto is often praised for its exploration of grief and healing. The story follows a young woman dealing with the loss of her best friend. Additionally, 'The Wind - Up Bird Chronicle' by Haruki Murakami is a complex and engaging novel that weaves together various storylines, including mystery, war, and personal discovery.

Another great one is 'The Tale of Genji' by Murasaki Shikibu. It is often considered the world's first novel. It gives a detailed look into the Heian period of Japan, with its complex court life, relationships, and cultural aspects.