Is it backward that I read this book before reading any of Haruki Murakami’s novels?

Perhaps.

Rest assured, I’m intrigued to read the novels now that I’ve had this glimpse into the author’s processand observations on writing. His perspective is so different from what I’ve heard and read from other professional writers.

Murakami writes because he has stories to tell. Stories to discover, actually. I especially enjoyed learning that one of his pleasures in starting a new novel is the anticipation of meeting the characters. Sweet.

The narration of the audiobook was just right. A good listen. Now, I think I’ll snag a copy of the physical book, so I can flag my favorite passages.