Is Haruki Murakami A-List?
NoB
No — Haruki Murakami is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Ranking Timeline
1979C$0.01M
Hear the Wind Sing Debut
Murakami publishes his first novel, beginning his career.
1987B▲$0.5M+$0.49M
Norwegian Wood Breakthrough
Achieves widespread popularity in Japan.
1994B$2M+$1.5M
The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle
Gains international recognition.
2002B$10M+$8M
Kafka on the Shore Release
Further solidifies his global reputation.
2009B$30M+$20M
1Q84 Publication
Bestselling novel worldwide.
2018B$60M+$30M
Killing Commendatore Novel
Another critically acclaimed novel.
2024B$75M+$15M
Continued Literary Influence
Murakami remains a prominent literary figure.
Last updated: February 23, 2026