Mieko Kawakami is a highly acclaimed Japanese author and singer, born on August 29, 1976, in Osaka. She gained early recognition as a singer, releasing three singles and three albums, prior to establishing herself as a prominent writer. Kawakami's literary career began with poetry and culminated in her first novella, "My Ego, My Teeth, and the World," published in 2007.
Kawakami's literary prowess was swiftly acknowledged, earning her the 138th Akutagawa Prize for promising new writers of serious fiction in 2007 for her novel "Chichi to Ran" (Breasts and Eggs). This marked a significant milestone in her writing career, solidifying her position as a noteworthy author. Her work is renowned for its poetic qualities, deep insights into the female body, and a profound exploration of ethics and modern society.
Kawakami's literary portfolio includes the international bestseller "Breasts and Eggs," which has been translated into over 20 languages. Her other notable works include "Heaven," translated by Sam Bett and David Boyd, which was shortlisted for the 2022 International Booker Prize. Her most recent novel to be translated into English is "All the Lovers in the Night." Kawakami currently resides in Tokyo, continuing to contribute significantly to the literary world with her unique storytelling and thought-provoking themes.