On the surface, "Convenience Store Woman" by Sayaka Murata seems to tell the story of ordinary life—mundane, routine, and uneventful. Yet beneath that simplicity, it taps into something deeper, something we often feel uncomfortable acknowledging, especially when it comes to societal expectations. 

Throughout the novel, Keiko, the protagonist, speaks of having a "disease" that she doesn’t quite understand. She’s constantly aware of the people around her trying to “fix” her, but no one really knows how to heal what they can’t fully grasp. In response, Keiko mirrors the habits and behaviors of others to blend in, to appear normal. But even as she adopts these societal norms, her actions are still questioned by those around her. This creates an intriguing tension—what does it mean to be “normal,” and who gets to define it?

Murata subtly critiques the rigid norms of Japanese society, particularly the expectations placed on individuals who work in roles deemed "ordinary," like convenience store workers. The book explores how society imposes its own version of normalcy on people, trying to “cure” those who don’t fit into its prescribed boxes. It highlights the discomfort we feel when confronted with someone who doesn’t follow the expected life path, even when that person seems perfectly content in their own world.

This novel also delves into the broader human struggle of navigating societal expectations—how we are conditioned to fit in, to be “normal,” often at the expense of our individuality. It raises questions about how much of our identity is shaped by external pressures, and whether we ever truly live for ourselves or for the approval of others.

Should you read this book? Absolutely. Convenience Store Woman is a refreshing and unique read, offering a glimpse into the author’s own experiences and a fresh perspective on what it means to live outside society’s norms. It’s a quiet yet powerful exploration of human behavior, social conformity, and the unspoken rules that govern everyday life. 

Have you read Convenience Store Woman? I’d love to hear your thoughts on it.