Book Club+ MPC discussion

Hi everyone,
If you are joining us for "What You Are Looking For Is In The Library" by Michiko Aoyama We are now at Chapter 3. Let us know what you think of the book so far

Chapter 3
We now meet Natsumi, who is a former magazine editor. Thoughts about the belief that Santa Claus exist and is it really a belief for children or is it for adults? Natsumi worked in information resources. She reflected on her career and starting a family. She was afraid to start a family for fear of being treated differently and harming her importance in the company which was predominately men. The child was named Futaba and was put in child-care when Natsumi returned to work. She was moved to another department, having to leave her job as editor. Natsumi felt guilty about leaving Futaba about childcare. When she feels guilty about the time spent being a mother, work and being tired. Natsumi is struggling with all the child tasks and behaviors of her daughter and her patience grows thin. She heard about the Hatori Community House Library. Natsumi took Futaba to the library. Natsumi admired the passion of the librarian trainee, Nozomi. She reminded Natsumi of her determination. After she had her child, those dreams seemed to fade and had little job satisfaction. She spoke to the Reference Librarian, Ms. Komachi Ms. Komachi shared her wisdom about being born and if you survive that, you can get through any obstacle that comes your way.

Ms. Komachi suggested some children’s books and a book called “Door to the Moon” by Yukari Ishii and a small world globe to go with it. This book of astrology spoke of the moon signifying mothers, wives, childhood, changes etc. Natsumi decided to attend Madam Mizue’s book launch event, but didn’t make it there waiting for Shuji to come home. Futaba was sick and needed to be picked up at daycare. Natsumi had to miss the writer talk to pick up her sick child. Futaba appeared to recover and Natsumi was sad that she missed the opportunity to the special talk. She also wondered why it was always the women who were picking up the children? Why did the women seem to make the big sacrifices? Natsumi got into an argument with Shuji about house and child responsibilities. Natsumi did meet up with Madam Mizue and they discussed life’s challenges with a child. Natsumi wanted to be a literary fiction editor. She also worked with Shuji about helping with Futaba. Natsumi applied for an ideal job but didn’t get it, but found another opportunity instead.

She still believed in the truth of Santa Claus, balancing life and realizing everything works together, neither has to be more important. Life does not stay the same, it’s always changing, changing us and that is okay.
What are your thoughts? Natsumi was incredibly unhappy with her life changes. She embraced that change and didn’t fight it. Life is ever-evolving. Doors close, windows open. Don’t give up. Natsumi didn't.

Have a good day.

Sincerely,

-Donna