In 'Klara and the Sun,' Kazuo Ishiguro explores the profound bond between an artificial friend, Klara, and the human world she longs to understand. Set in a dystopian future where 'AFs' or Artificial Friends are companions for children, Klara's observations reveal deep truths about love, loneliness, and the essence of being human. As Klara is chosen by a little girl named Josie, she becomes intertwined in the family's complexities and secrets. The narrative raises haunting questions about the nature of consciousness and the sacrifices made for love. Will Klara's unique perspective illuminate the path to Josie's well-being, or will she uncover darker realities? The journey promises to challenge your perceptions of friendship and what it means to truly connect.
By Kazuo Ishiguro
Published: 2021
"'The sun, as I understand it, is a giver of life and energy, but also a witness to our struggles and sorrows. In its warmth, we seek connection, and in its light, we find clarity amid the shadows of existence.'"
NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLER • Once in a great while, a book comes along that changes our view of the world. This magnificent novel from the Nobel laureate and author of Never Let Me Go is “an intriguing take on how artificial intelligence might play a role in our futures ... a poignant meditation on love and loneliness” (The Associated Press). • A GOOD MORNING AMERICA Book Club Pick! “What stays with you in ‘Klara and the Sun’ is the haunting narrative voice—a genuinely innocent, egoless perspective on the strange behavior of humans obsessed and wounded by power, status and fear.” —Booker Prize committee Here is the story of Klara, an Artificial Friend with outstanding observational qualities, who, from her place in the store, watches carefully the behavior of those who come in to browse, and of those who pass on the street outside. She remains hopeful that a customer will soon choose her. Klara and the Sun is a thrilling book that offers a look at our changing world through the eyes of an unforgettable narrator, and one that explores the fundamental question: what does it mean to love?
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Daniel Pink is a renowned American author known for his groundbreaking work in the fields of business, work, and behavior. He has penned several bestselling books, including "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us," which explores the science of motivation and has been translated into over 30 languages. Pink's "A Whole New Mind" and "To Sell is Human" have also received critical acclaim, cementing his reputation as a thought leader. His insightful TED Talks and frequent contributions to major publications further amplify his influence. Pink's work has significantly shaped contemporary understanding of motivation, creativity, and the modern workplace.
Yuval Noah Harari is an Israeli historian and professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, renowned for his best-selling books on the history and future of humankind. His 2014 book, "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind," has been translated into over 60 languages and examines the evolution of Homo sapiens from the Stone Age to the present. Harari's subsequent works, "Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow" and "21 Lessons for the 21st Century," explore future scenarios and contemporary global challenges. His writings blend history, science, and philosophy, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. Harari is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his insights on platforms like TED and the World Economic Forum.
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
Alexey Moiseenkov is a Russian entrepreneur and tech innovator best known for creating Prisma, the groundbreaking mobile app that transforms photos into artworks using artificial intelligence. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work in AI and digital transformation has influenced contemporary discussions on the intersection of technology and art. Moiseenkov's contributions have been featured in various tech and innovation journals, highlighting his impact on modern digital culture. His work underscores the evolving narrative of creativity in the digital age, bridging the gap between artistic expression and technological advancement. Moiseenkov continues to inspire through his ongoing ventures in AI and entrepreneurship.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
Reshma Saujani is the founder of Girls Who Code, an organization aimed at closing the gender gap in technology by empowering young women to pursue careers in coding and computer science. She gained national attention in 2010 as the first Indian-American woman to run for U.S. Congress. Reshma is also the author of several books, including Brave, Not Perfect, which encourages women to embrace failure and take risks. Her TED Talk on teaching girls bravery rather than perfection has garnered millions of views. Reshma continues to advocate for gender equality and innovation in education.
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
Showing 8 of 13 related collections
“'The sun, as I understand it, is a giver of life and energy, but also a witness to our struggles and sorrows. In its warmth, we seek connection, and in its light, we find clarity amid the shadows of existence.'”
Klara and the Sun
By Kazuo Ishiguro
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Kazuo Ishiguro is a Nobel Prize-winning British author, acclaimed for his profound narratives and subtle exploration of the human condition. Born on November 8, 1954, in Nagasaki, Japan, Ishiguro moved to the UK at the age of five. He is renowned for his notable works, including "Never Let Me Go," "The Remains of the Day," and "Klara and the Sun." His writing is characterized by its elegant prose and a focus on themes of memory, loss, and identity, often blurring the lines between reality and perception. Ishiguro's unique narrative style invites readers to reflect on the fragility of human experiences.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In Ursula K. Le Guin's groundbreaking science fiction novel, "The Left Hand of Darkness," an envoy from Earth, Genly Ai, embarks on an extraordinary mission to the icy planet of Gethen, where inhabitants possess a unique gender fluidity that challenges his every assumption. As he navigates the treacherous political landscape and forges an uneasy alliance with the enigmatic Gethenian, Estraven, Genly confronts the profound implications of identity and belonging. The harsh, frozen world mirrors the complexities of human relationships, weaving a tale of friendship, betrayal, and self-discovery. Le Guin crafts a mesmerizing exploration of how culture shapes our understanding of gender and love. Will Genly's quest for acceptance and unity transcend the boundaries of difference, or will it be lost in the unforgiving cold?
In "American Gods," Neil Gaiman weaves a mesmerizing tale of Shadow Moon, an ex-convict drawn into a hidden world where ancient gods clash with modern deities created by society's obsessions. As Shadow travels across the country with the enigmatic Mr. Wednesday, he uncovers a rich tapestry of myth and magic interwoven with contemporary America. Every bizarre encounter reveals the past's lingering power and the cost of forgotten beliefs amidst a rapidly changing landscape. With each page, readers are drawn deeper into a battle for the soul of a nation, where the stakes are nothing less than the survival of the old gods. Will Shadow embrace his true identity, or will he be lost to the chaos of a world that no longer remembers them?
In "Walking," the author explores the transformative power of a simple act—putting one foot in front of the other. With poetic prose and vivid imagery, the narrative unveils how walking invites us to reconnect with nature, our thoughts, and our inner selves. Each step becomes a journey, revealing hidden truths and untold stories that lie beneath the surface of everyday life. As the author traverses urban landscapes and tranquil trails, readers are drawn into a meditative experience that celebrates the art of wandering. Will you take the first step toward a deeper understanding of the world around you?
In "She Would Be King," Weike Wang weaves a mesmerizing tale that blends history and magic in colonial Liberia. The story follows three uniquely gifted individuals—an escaped slave with the power of invulnerability, a girl who can communicate with the dead, and a man able to manipulate the elements—as they navigate the tumultuous landscape of their time. As their destinies intertwine, they confront not only external threats but also their own inner demons. Wang's lyrical prose and rich character development invite readers to explore the complexities of identity, power, and belonging. Will their extraordinary abilities lead them to salvation or destruction in a world rife with conflict and hope?
In "Exit West," Mohsin Hamid weaves a poignant tale of love and migration through the lens of a couple, Nadia and Saeed, who discover mysterious doors that lead them to new worlds amid escalating conflict in their homeland. As they traverse from war-torn landscapes to bustling cities, their relationship is tested by the challenges of displacement and the search for belonging. With each door, Hamid explores themes of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of human connection. As the couple navigates the complexities of their journey, they confront the realities of global migration in an increasingly fractured world. Will they find solace in each other and the new worlds they enter, or will the ever-expanding horizons pull them apart?
In 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy', Arthur Dent is unwittingly swept off Earth just before its destruction, embarking on a wild interstellar journey. Guided by the eccentric Ford Prefect and armed with an absurdly helpful guidebook, Arthur navigates a bizarre universe filled with peculiar species and surreal events. With humor and wit, Douglas Adams explores themes of existence, absurdity, and the sheer randomness of life. As Arthur encounters the likes of the two-headed President of the Galaxy and the depressed robot Marvin, he learns that the answer to life may be even more confusing than the question. Will Arthur discover the true meaning of the universe before his next misadventure? Prepare for a cosmic rollercoaster filled with laughter and existential pondering!
In 'Monetizing Innovation,' Madhavan Ramanujam and Georg Tacke unravel the secrets of converting groundbreaking ideas into lucrative products. They challenge the myth that innovation is solely about creativity, emphasizing the essential role of monetization strategies. Through compelling case studies and practical frameworks, the authors guide readers to identify customer needs and align their value propositions accordingly. This book is a masterclass for entrepreneurs and business leaders aiming to enhance profitability through smart innovation. Dive in to discover how the right approach can turn visionary concepts into financial success.
In 'Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me)', Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson explore the psychological mechanisms of self-justification and the often-unconscious ways we avoid admitting our wrongs. With compelling examples from history, psychology, and personal anecdotes, the authors reveal why people, from individuals to large organizations, refuse to accept accountability. This thought-provoking book challenges readers to confront their own biases and the cognitive dissonance that influences decision-making. Will you choose to embrace the discomfort of acknowledging your mistakes? Dive into this enlightening read and discover the profound impact of accountability on personal growth and relationships.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
