Natsu is a thirty-something single woman living in Tokyo struggling to support herself. When her older sister and niece visit, Natsu observes how the overwhelming pressures of womanhood weigh differently on the mother-daughter duo. Ten years later, when Natsu finally has more job security, she is again hit by a wave of uncertainty as she grows old, alone and childless.

B&E is a captivating novel that delves into profound themes of periods, breasts, and childbearing. Split into 2 parts spanning 10 years, I was especially drawn to part 2, where Kawakami raises intriguing philosophical questions about the complex nature of motherhood. She deftly tackles the idea that no one asks to be born, questioning the inherent selfishness of birthing children. Through Natsu's experiences, Kawakami invites readers to ponder the ethical dimensions of bringing new life into the world through artificial insemination by donor (AID), and the responsibilities that come with it. I adore how this exploration encourages me to reflect on societal expectations, heteronormative family structures, and the role of women in a patriarchal society.

B&E raises profound questions about the intersection of sex, identity, and personal fulfillment. By intertwining the characters' journeys with the physicality of their bodies—specifically focusing on breasts, menstruation, and childbirth—Kawakami sheds light on the insecurities, social pressures, and inequalities in a society shaped by patriarchal norms. B&E confronts uncomfortable realities about womanhood, fertility, and the expectations placed upon women's bodies, yet it leaves room for readers to interpret these themes personally.

I read B&E in Mandarin and could really see the similarities between Kawakami and Murakami, particularly with their lyrical prose and the ability to navigate complex themes with clarity and depth. For those curious about Murakami's work but discouraged by his "masculine" writing style, Kawakami's works (I've read B&E and ALL THE LOVERS IN THE NIGHT) focus on women and their experiences in modern Japan. B&E is a fascinating contemporary literature that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling ✨