Coin Locker Babies (Pushkin Classics) by Ryu Murakami

Pushkin Press. Paperback. NEW. In the novel "A Cyberpunk Coming-of-Age Tale" by Japan Times, the story revolves around two babies who are abandoned in a coin locker at a Tokyo station. Despite the unfavorable circumstances, they manage to survive and endure, but their lives are forever shaped by this inauspicious beginning. Growing up amidst the outcasts and misfits of a place known as Toxitown, the two protagonists carve out vastly different paths. One of them becomes a bisexual rock star who embarks on a desperate search for his mother, while the other becomes an athlete consumed by a thirst for revenge against the woman who deserted him. As their separate journeys unfold, the narrative takes a dark and surrealistic turn, steeped in violence. The twisted paths of these two characters begin to intertwine, leading to a tumultuous and explosive climax. The novel has been hailed as a captivating depiction of the cultural explosion of Japanese youth during the fin de siècle. Kirkus, a renowned literary review publication, praises the book for encapsulating this significant aspect of Japanese culture. With a setting rooted in cyberpunk elements, the story delves into the underbelly of Tokyo, exploring the fringes of society and the marginalized individuals who inhabit it. Through the lens of these characters, the reader is exposed to the gritty realities of life in a metropolis that is both awe-inspiring and ruthless. The rock star protagonist, driven by his bisexuality, sets out on a quest to find his missing mother. His journey takes him through the seedy underbelly of the city, where he encounters a plethora of eccentric characters and experiences mind-altering encounters. This search for identity and familial connections becomes a metaphor for the search for self in a rapidly changing society. On the other hand, the athlete harbors deep-seated anger and resentment towards the woman who abandoned him. Fueled by his desire for revenge, he becomes entangled in a world of underground fighting and criminal activity. As he immerses himself in this dark undercurrent, he wrestles with themes of abandonment, loyalty, and the corrupting powers of vengeance. The convergence of these two narrative arcs creates a powerful and electrifying climax. As the rock star's search for his mother and the athlete's thirst for revenge collide, the reader is thrust into a surreal whirlwind of violence. The boundaries between reality and fantasy become blurred, reflecting the chaotic and tumultuous nature of their lives. In conclusion, "A Cyberpunk Coming-of-Age Tale" offers a captivating and provocative exploration of youth culture in Japan. Through the experiences of its two protagonists, the reader is immersed in a world of violence, rebellion, and self-discovery. This novel delves into the darker corners of society, presenting a visceral and thought-provoking narrative that challenges societal norms and emphasizes the resilience of the human spirit.