I really adored this short, satirical novel! This book is light on plot, but a deep study of a young woman who is comfortable operating outside of society’s standards — even though the people around her are not. It is not specifically stated in the book, but it feels obvious that Keiko is autistic. I really enjoyed seeing the world through her eyes and her reactions to societal pressures, gender norms and expectations.

Poignant but sad, but also enjoyable and fast paced, Convenience Store Woman is unlike anything I’ve read and I will absolutely be seeking out more from this author.