I chose this book as it was about a library, and we all love books!
This is so far removed from my usual horror genre that I did not expect to enjoy it as much as I did. It’s heartwarming and uplifting, so if you are looking for a book where no-one gets their head chopped off, then this is for you!
The story follows five different characters who all feel a little lost in their life and are questioning their purpose. Through serendipity, each person finds their way to the library and meets the reference librarian Sayuri Komachi. At first, each of them is taken aback by Ms. Komachi’s large frame and monotone voice, when she asks, ‘what are you looking for?’
While directing each of them to their requested book, she gives them a handmade ‘bonus gift’. This item is a felted character that weirdly resonates with them on a deep level. She also includes a bonus book recommendation which initially seems very off topic but turns out to be exactly what they needed.
I loved the characters and enjoyed their interpretation of the extra book and bonus gift, which revived them to follow their aspirations.
I listened to this on Borrowbox, which was amazing. It has been translated from Japanese and the narrators’ pronunciation of people and places helped me focus on the story, so I highly recommend trying the audiobook version.
This book will make you smile.
-Kim, RRL Administration Centre.
