J's Musings

Book review by Janx.

“Library,

What a nice sounding word.

So comforting. I feel like I’m a student again.

Library,

Am I allowed to borrow books?”

What is a library? A place, a word or something else? I don’t know, so I might say, ‘each to their own.’ When a book makes it out of a library, it serves multiple purposes. Entertainment, guidance, bringing people together and so much more.

Today’s book is about a community library in Tokyo with a librarian whose suggestions will help 5 readers get through tough patches in their respective lives.

A restless retail assistant looking to gain new skills, a mother trying to overcome demotion at work after maternity leave, a conscientious accountant yearning to open an antiques shop, a recently retired salaryman searching for newfound purpose.

They really have nothing in common, except an enigmatic librarian and her eccentric recommendations.

The book maintains an even, untheatrical tone of its own, but talks about the events transparently enough to move the reader. Written in first person pov, the characters all take you through their stories in their own unique ways. Each story can feel like a reflection of the characters personality, and a part of you.

It took me almost a month to complete, despite being quite short and me being a quick reader. I will only say that reading this book takes a lot of attention. It is a vacation read, for a calm and free mind, rather than to wind down and let go of your own worries.

If you like no plot, low stakes and high comfort books, that make you think and reflect then this book is made for you.

Rating: 4 / 5

Wishing you a good read,

Janx 🙂