Play Book Tag discussion

The Cat Who Saved Books by Sōsuke Natsukawa - 3* - My Review

Rintaro’s grandfather has recently died and left him a bookshop. He initially decides to close the shop, but a talking cat appears and convinces him to accompany him on multiple quests to save books from destruction, neglect, or confinement. Rintaro is a reclusive high school student. Through these quests, Rintaro learns something about life. It contains elements of philosophy, humor, reflection, and journey of self-discovery. It is a short and easy read. It examines some of the extreme behaviors of book lovers. I listened to the audiobook, which is capably read by Kevin Shen (though some of the voices are a bit strained). The life lessons are directly stated. There are also a few more serious themes camouflaged by the fable-like structure – such as a critique of a society that values soundbites over deeper thinking and a skewering of mainstream publishing. It is the type of sweet story that I usually avoid, but I liked the playfulness and the literary references.

PBT Steeplechase - Tagged "cozy" x45:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/shelve...

BWF March Extra C, N - tagged "coming of age" x20:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/shelve...

This is typical of many modern Japanese books that I've read and some French ones as well - short, dreamlike, philosophical, abstract. They are quick to read but they feel like a tiny appetizer rather than the entree of a meal. Hmm, I guess humor and romance are the dessert, yummy but if you consume a lot of them in a row, you can get sick of them.

@Robin - great way to describe this type of modern Japanese fiction! What are some of the similar french ones you have read?

@Joy - I like your review, and think it a good find for 'cozy' tag! I was just thinking how we all jump to concluding 'cozy' means that genre of mystery, but in reality, the word is far broader and can mean books that warm the heart or lighten the mood or are perfect on a gray or cold day.