“The world is full of things that don’t make sense. That’s why we have to make our own sense of it.”
Chapter 1: The Murder
The novel opens with the shocking murder of a high school girl’s mother by her classmate, Worm. Toshi, the protagonist, hears about the crime through her friend Yuzan, who is secretly in love with Worm. The girls—Toshi, Yuzan, Kirarin, and Terauchi—react differently, but all are drawn into Worm’s chaotic world.
Chapter 2: The Runaway
Worm flees the scene and contacts Toshi, who hides him in her family’s empty apartment. Toshi becomes entangled in his escape, lying to her parents and feeling a strange thrill at being part of something dangerous. Meanwhile, the police begin investigating the murder.
Chapter 3: The Circle of Secrets
Yuzan, struggling with her sexuality and unrequited love for Worm, confides in Toshi. Kirarin, a naive and cheerful girl, remains oblivious to the severity of the situation, while Terauchi, the most intelligent of the group, starts questioning Worm’s motives and the girls’ complicity.
Chapter 4: The Hideout
Worm moves between the girls’ homes, manipulating their emotions. Toshi grows increasingly obsessed with him, while Terauchi becomes suspicious. The tension escalates as Worm’s erratic behavior threatens to expose them all. Meanwhile, the media sensationalizes the crime, adding pressure on the police.
Chapter 5: The Betrayal
Terauchi confronts Worm, leading to a violent confrontation. Yuzan, desperate for his affection, sides with him, further fracturing the group. Toshi, torn between loyalty and fear, realizes Worm is more dangerous than she thought. The police close in, forcing Worm to flee again.
Chapter 6: The Chase
Worm disappears, leaving the girls to face the consequences of their actions. Toshi reflects on her choices, while Yuzan spirals into despair. Kirarin, finally grasping the gravity of the situation, breaks down. The police interrogate the girls, exposing their lies.
Chapter 7: The Aftermath
Worm is eventually caught, but the damage is irreversible. The girls’ friendships are shattered, and each is left to grapple with guilt, trauma, and disillusionment. Toshi, now isolated, contemplates the meaning of justice and the blurred lines between victim and accomplice.
Key Ideas
- Exploration of teenage alienation and rebellion.
- Critique of societal pressures on Japanese youth.
- The blurred morality of crime and complicity.
- Psychological manipulation and toxic relationships.
- The search for identity in a conformist society.
Who should read this book?
- Fans of dark, psychological thrillers.
- Readers interested in Japanese crime fiction.
- Those exploring themes of youth rebellion and alienation.
- Anyone drawn to morally complex narratives.