Books Like...

'If Cats Disappeared from the World' is a short, thought-provoking novel that follows the story of a man who is faced with a terminal illness and makes a deal with the devil to extend his life in exchange for making things disappear from the world. The book explores themes of life, death, relationships, and the value of existence through a whimsical and philosophical narrative that delves into the protagonist's inner struggles and moral dilemmas. The writing style is described as charming, delightful, and bittersweet, with a touch of magical realism that engages readers in contemplating the meaning of life and the choices we make.

In "The Cat Who Saved Books," high school student Rintaro Natsuki finds solace in his grandfather's secondhand bookshop after his grandfather's death. When a talking cat named Tiger appears and enlists Rintaro's help in rescuing imprisoned books, the duo embarks on a series of whimsical quests through labyrinths and book-themed adventures. The book explores themes of grief, empathy, human connection, and the power of literature, all wrapped in a charming and heartwarming narrative that is reminiscent of Japanese novels with a touch of magical realism.

The story unfolds with Rintaro's growth as he navigates loss, self-discovery, and the importance of books in shaping one's perspective on life. Through encounters with unique characters, sphinx-like riddles, and philosophical discussions about books, the narrative weaves a tale of friendship, adventure, and the transformative power of storytelling, culminating in a poignant message about the value of empathy and the significance of books in fostering understanding and personal growth.

'A Street Cat Named Bob' by James Bowen is a heartwarming memoir that tells the true story of a homeless man who finds hope and redemption through his bond with a stray cat named Bob. The book chronicles James Bowen's journey of overcoming addiction and homelessness with the help of his feline companion, Bob. The writing style is simple yet impactful, portraying the powerful message of how a small creature can bring about significant positive changes in a person's life.

'The Fur Person' by May Sarton is a heartwarming tale told from the perspective of a tomcat named Tom Jones. It follows Tom's journey from being a stray cat to finding a loving home with his human housekeepers, May Sarton and Judy Matlack. The story is filled with delightful observations of cat behavior, humor, and touching moments that showcase the special bond between cats and humans. Written in a charming and engaging style, the book captures the inner life of a cat and the joys of companionship between pets and their owners.

'The Travelling Cat Chronicles' by Hiro Arikawa is a heartwarming tale narrated by a stray cat named Nana, who is taken in by a man named Satoru. The story revolves around their journey across Japan as Satoru seeks a new home for Nana. Through Nana's perspective, readers learn about the bond between man and animal, the importance of friendship, and the themes of love and loss. The narrative alternates between Nana's point of view and reminiscences from Satoru's past, providing a unique and touching portrayal of their relationship.

"I Am a Cat" by Natsume Soseki is a satirical novel set in early 20th century Japan, narrated from the perspective of a nameless housecat. The story unfolds through the cat's observations of his master, an English teacher, and his eccentric friends. The book offers a humorous commentary on human nature, intellectual life during the Meiji era, and the social upheaval in Japan following the collapse of feudalism. Through witty monologues and philosophical discussions, the cat provides a unique lens to critique Japanese society and culture.

The narrative style shifts from focusing on the cat's interactions with other felines to delving into the lives and conversations of the human characters. The cat's perspective allows for a critical examination of human foibles and societal norms, blending elements of satire, social commentary, and existential reflections. As the story progresses, the cat's observations become more thought-provoking, offering insights into the complexities of human nature and the intellectual bankruptcy of the modernizing Japanese society.

In "The Housekeeper and the Professor" by Yoko Ogawa, the story revolves around an elderly mathematician who, due to a head injury, can only retain memories for eighty minutes at a time. The professor forms a special bond with his housekeeper and her son, as they navigate the challenges of his condition while delving into the beauty of numbers and mathematics. The book explores themes of friendship, memory, and the significance of human relationships, all intertwined with a subtle undertone involving the fragility of memory and the eternal nature of numbers.

The novel is character-driven, focusing on the development of the three main characters - the professor, the housekeeper, and her son. Through the daily interactions between the characters, the author skillfully weaves in math concepts, showcasing the magic of numbers and how they bring this unlikely trio together. The writing style is described as quiet, tender, and beautifully poignant, leaving a lasting impact on the reader long after the final page is turned.

'The Great Passage' by Shion Miura is a charming tale that follows the lives of obsessive lexicographers working on compiling a new Japanese language dictionary over a 12-year period. The story revolves around the protagonist Mitsuya Majime who is recruited to join the dictionary department and embarks on a journey of friendship, romance, and self-discovery. The book beautifully captures the love of words, the art of capturing their essence, and the human connections formed through the shared passion for language. The plot delves into the meticulous process of creating a dictionary, the personal growth of the characters, and the intricate debates over words and their meanings.

The writing style of 'The Great Passage' is described as engaging, light, and enjoyable. The book is praised for its well-translated narrative that conveys the deep love and dedication the characters have for words. Readers appreciate the blend of romance, rivalry, ambition, and mortality woven into the story, making it a compelling and insightful read. The novel offers a glimpse into the world of lexicography, highlighting the care and effort put into compiling a dictionary, which is often taken for granted. Overall, 'The Great Passage' is commended for its heartwarming storytelling, rich character development, and exploration of the profound impact of words on people's lives.

The Nakano Thrift Shop by Hiromi Kawakami is a gentle and captivating novel that follows the lives of the employees and customers of a small Japanese thrift shop. Through vignettes set in the shop, readers get a glimpse into the quirky and intimate moments of the characters' lives, with a focus on the protagonist Hitomi and her interactions with her co-workers, Mr. Nakano, Takeo, and Masayo. The narrative is described as slow-paced, atmospheric, and filled with deadpan humor, capturing the casual conversations and relationships among the characters.

"Strange Weather in Tokyo" by Hiromi Kawakami is a tender and quiet story that follows Tsukiko, a lonely office worker in her thirties, who unexpectedly reconnects with her former high school teacher, Sensei, in a Tokyo bar. Despite their age difference and differences in personalities, the two form an unlikely companionship that slowly blossoms into a delicate and heartfelt romance. The book explores themes of loneliness, connection, and love through the lens of everyday interactions, food, and sake, creating a dreamlike atmosphere rooted in Japanese culture and societal norms. Kawakami's writing style is spare yet mesmerizing, drawing readers into the evolving relationship between Tsukiko and Sensei with subtle humor and poignant observations.