Disappointed, the gathered Murakamists watched the award announcement, clapped politely, and decided to consume the champagne they had at the ready anyway. “It was slightly more embarrassing for staff at Tokyo’s flagship Kinokuniya bookshop, who had lovingly laid out more than 30 titles of Murakami’s books in a special display. After they let out a loud surprised ‘Ohhh,’ staff quickly dismantled their Murakami corner and replaced it with their handful of copies of Ishiguro’s books while rushing to order more.”