Review: Klara and the Sun

Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro features an interesting use of the device of the unreliable narrator. In this case, the unreliability comes from the many misunderstandings and misinterpretations of the titular Klara. She (it?) is an AF – Artificial Friend – a child’s companion. She accurately reports everything that happens, but frequently misinterprets. As the novel progresses, her understanding of human nature progresses and the reader’s understanding of the near-future dystopian society she inhabits also progresses. Unlike many things I read, this book sticks with me. I keep reflecting upon Klara & her journey from the store to being Josie’s companion to the junkyard. There are many themes to the book, but one that settles with me is how often the well-off receive assistance from those with less yet the more fortunate never realize the sacrifice that was made. From a literary standpoint, this was the finest bit of fiction I’ve read in quite some time.