Natsuo Kirino's novel "Out" is an enthralling and chilling tale that delves into the realms of crime, despair, and the intricacies of human behavior. Set in Tokyo, the story revolves around a group of women working together in a bento factory. Each woman grapples with her own struggles, desperately trying to make ends meet. When Yayoi, one of the women, murders her abusive husband, she turns to her coworkers for help in disposing of the body and covering up the crime. What ensues is a gripping narrative that explores friendship, betrayal, and the repercussions of our actions.
Kirino's writing style is gritty and compelling, immersing readers in the seedy underbelly of Tokyo's criminal underworld. The author fearlessly depicts the harsh realities of these women's lives, offering vivid and unfiltered descriptions that intensify the story's impact. Through her characters, Kirino examines the lengths individuals are willing to go to safeguard themselves and those they care about, and the compromises they make along the way.
The characters in "Out" are complex and multifaceted, each possessing their own motivations and concealed secrets. Kirino adeptly delves into their inner thoughts and emotions, allowing readers to empathize with and comprehend their choices, even when these choices may be ethically ambiguous. The relationships between the women form a central thread of the narrative, as they navigate the intricate dynamics of their friendships while grappling with the tumultuous circumstances they find themselves in.
Available on Audible
One of the standout aspects of "Out" is its unapologetic exploration of gender dynamics and societal expectations in Japan. Kirino starkly portrays the limited options available to women in a male-dominated society, as well as the oppressive systems they are compelled to navigate. Through the lens of crime and desperation, the novel provides a poignant commentary on the challenges faced by women and their journey towards personal agency and liberation.
Overall, "Out" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that blends elements of crime, suspense, and social critique. Natsuo Kirino's writing is spellbinding and audacious, taking readers on a dark and profound expedition into the depths of human nature.
What are readers saying?
Natsuo Kirino's novel, "Out," has garnered a range of responses from readers. The book follows the lives of four women employed at a bento-box factory, who become embroiled in a dangerous world of crime and violence. While some readers praised the fast-paced and captivating storyline, others had reservations about the character development and the excessive violence depicted in the narrative.
Many readers were enthralled by the intense and suspenseful plot of "Out." They found the book to be a thrilling page-turner that kept them engaged from start to finish. Kirino's skill in creating a tense and gripping atmosphere was commended, making it difficult for readers to put the book down. The seamless blend of crime, mystery, and psychological elements was particularly appealing for many, adding further depth and intrigue to the story.
However, some readers expressed concerns about certain aspects of the novel. One frequently mentioned criticism was the lack of character development. These readers felt that the characters were not sufficiently developed and lacked depth, making it challenging to form an emotional connection with them. Additionally, there were those who felt discomfort with the excessive violence and explicit scenes described in the story. They believed that these elements were unnecessary and detracted from their overall enjoyment of the book.
Despite these critiques, many readers lauded Natsuo Kirino's writing style. They admired her ability to create vivid and gritty settings that transported readers into the dark and sinister underbelly of Tokyo. Kirino's exploration of themes such as gender roles, societal pressures, and the struggles faced by working-class women resonated with many readers, adding richness and depth to the story.
In conclusion, "Out" by Natsuo Kirino elicited mixed reactions from readers. While some found the book to be a gripping and thrilling read, others had concerns about the character development and the explicit violence present in the narrative. Nevertheless, many readers still appreciated Kirino's writing style and her exploration of thought-provoking societal themes throughout the story.
OutBook BookRecommendation ThrillerNovel