Born in Kyoto in 1949, Haruki Murakami grew up in a middle-class family, influenced by his father's role as a teacher of Japanese literature.

His upbringing in Kobe, a city with a significant American presence, fostered a love for Western culture, particularly jazz and American literature.

Murakami's journey to becoming a novelist began in April 1978, inspired by a moment at a baseball game, leading to the publication of fifteen novels and numerous other works.

His novels have been translated into over fifty languages, gaining global acclaim and adaptations into film and other media.

The role of his translators, particularly Philip Gabriel, Alfred Birnbaum, and Jay Rubin, has been crucial in maintaining the distinctive 'Murakami voice' in English.

Despite facing criticism for not adhering to traditional Japanese literary norms, Murakami's works feature Japanese characters and settings while blending cultural iconography with universal themes.

His popularity has surged during historical moments when his themes resonated with readers, such as in Eastern Europe after the Cold War.

Murakami's book 'Underground: The Tokyo Gas Attack and the Japanese Psyche' serves as an oral history that explores the psychological effects of the 1995 Tokyo subway gas attack.

This work was inspired by his desire to understand survivor trauma after reading about it in a magazine.

In his fiction, Murakami often delves into surreal, underground realms that challenge characters' perceptions of reality and consciousness.

A core theme in his writing is the duality of human consciousness, reflecting on identity and connection.

His midnight release parties for new novels attract large crowds, showcasing his enduring appeal and connection with readers.