How does the author structure the novel, The Wind-up Bird Chronicle?

THE WIND-UP BIRD CHRONICLE is divided into three books. Each book covers a specific period of time in Toru Okada's life. Book 1 takes place during June and July of 1984. Book 2 moves from July to October 1984. Book 3 focuses on October 1984 through December of 1985. Each book is divided into chapters that average 7 or 8 pages. Some chapters are longer than others. Book 3 covers the longest period of time and has a total of thirty-nine chapters. Each chapter heading gives the reader an idea of what to look for in that section. For example, Book 2, Chapter 9 is titled "The Well and Stars" and "How the Ladder Disappeared." Using chapter headings as clues, the reader becomes a detective, as the non-linear story line weaves its way through linear time. In a way, the author leads the reader through the narrative. Chapter headings such as the ones Murakami uses also lend structure and order to the characters' chaotic lives. That is to say no matter what occurs in the chapter, no matter how fantastic or terrifying, there is a time stamp affixed to it by the author. Keeping a record of precisely when something happens guarantees, in a way, the reality of the event. Many of Toru Okada's experiences are very similar to others such as the recurring dream he has about Room 208. In a life like Toru Okada's, timing is extremely important. The three books are representative of the three selves of Toru Okada. The chapter headings let the reader know what the main protagonist's process is; the headings offer a kind of road map to the character's life. When compiling a chronicle, "when" becomes a priority. The demarcation of time is important when one is keeping a record which could prove guilt or innocence; good or evil.