Answer
Friends is indeed not a novel by Kōbō Abe. Abe, a renowned Japanese author, is known for his works such as "The Woman in the Dunes" and "The Face of Another." These works explore themes of existentialism, alienation, and the human condition, often set against surreal and nightmarish landscapes. His distinct style and thought-provoking narratives have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated readership worldwide.