(NY), Kodansha, 1991. The uncorrected proof copy, in purple wrappers, of the first American edition of this novel: shot from typescript and reproducing holograph page numbers and several holograph corrections. Predates the uncorrected proof in green wrappers. Even casual inspection of this "unedited manuscript" reveals significant differences between this version and the published text, enough to consider this a draft. A combination of hard-boiled science fiction and surreal fantasy, Murakami has called this his favorite among his novels, as has Jay Rubin, Murakami's English translator for much of his later work. Winner of the Tanizaki Prize in Japan in 1985. Mild spine-fading and some smudged writing on the cover; near fine. A scarce advance copy of a notable early title by Murakami, his second book published in the U.S. [#034462] SOLD