Take a photo of a barcode or cover
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
this was cute!!! i had a good time reading this.
takako was a good protagonist, she was relatable enough to be likeable, yet had her own ambitions. she did feel like she lacked depth and often at times felt flat, but she was nice enough that i didn’t mind too much
satoru was…. fine? he kind of felt like he lacked any depth. and that can almost go for all the other side characters. i mean this isn’t even 200 pages so im not surprised the side characters felt boring.
the setting was honestly the highlight of this book. i mean cmon what reader wouldn’t love to live in a bookshop. part 2’s setting was also quite pleasant, and added to the dream-like feeling of this book.
the plot itself was……. Meh! i mean i liked part 1, as it felt like it had a point, delivered it well, and was structured nicely. but part 2…… i didn’t like as much. like i said the setting was enjoyable, but the actual story felt like i was reading a completely different book. the tone felt like it did a random 180 and suddenly became incredibly depressing????? it wasn’t what was advertised at all. i was promised wholesome book loving not Depression.
i don’t really have much more to say. i mean this book is barely 150 pages. obviously a short book is going to have issues to do with pacing and fleshing out its cast, but everything felt like it was missing something. plus the ending felt like it was purposefully unresolved to set up a sequel, which just left me annoyed. the ending was not satisfying. i mean i know you can only do so much when your setting is just a bookshop and the plot only surrounds that, but i would’ve preferred that! or keep part 2 but actually…. include that in the blurb!!!!!!!
i defo think ill read the sequel, if only to satiate my need to be a completionist. this was a perfectly average book. i am neither in love nor do i hate this. it was Fine
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity, Abandonment
Moderate: Chronic illness, Miscarriage, Grief, Abortion, Pregnancy, Alcohol
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
In a world where we are often swept away by the chaos of our daily lives, there’s something profoundly comforting about stories that offer a moment of stillness—a reminder of the restorative power of simplicity, connection, and self-discovery. Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa is one such tale, a quiet yet deeply moving exploration of human vulnerability and resilience.
The novel is far more than a simple tale about a bookshop or its patrons. It’s a journey of restoration and solace, found within the comforting embrace of familiar places, the warmth of cherished relationships, and the profound meaning of lived experiences. It gently reminds us that the path to healing often lies hidden in the cozy corners of our everyday lives or the steadfast support of the people around us.
What struck me most was how the story defied my initial expectations. While it may not have been the page-turner I had anticipated, it turned out to be something far more rewarding—a heartwarming and thought-provoking narrative that resonated with me on a deeply personal level.
Momoko’s character was particularly striking. Initially, I was uncertain about how I felt regarding her return, but as her story unfolded, she emerged as a beautifully vulnerable and multi-dimensional figure. Her struggles with guilt, loss, and fear painted a poignant picture of a woman grappling with her past while striving for redemption. Momoko’s emotional journey stayed with me long after I turned the final page.
Although Tatako’s story initially drew me into the world of Morisaki Bookshop, it was Momoko’s complex, redemptive arc that truly captured my heart. Together with Uncle Satoru’s subtle self-discovery, the novel becomes a beautiful exploration of human emotions. It reminds us that no one is defined by a single choice or action; instead, our lives are intricate tapestries woven from our experiences. Our ability to grow, change, and reconcile with the past stands as a testament to our resilience and humanity.
The characters are vividly drawn, and their struggles feel deeply authentic. Tatako’s search for meaning, Momoko’s emotional reckoning, and Satoru’s quiet transformation illustrate that life is rarely as simple as it appears on the surface. The book reassures us that no matter how lost or broken we may feel, we are never too far gone to rediscover ourselves—be it through love, community, or even the comforting solitude of a small bookshop in Tokyo.
Above all, Days at the Morisaki Bookshop is a profound celebration of human vulnerability. It reminds us that love and connection require courage, authenticity, and a willingness to share our true selves. Our challenges are not meant to be faced alone; our strength lies in sharing our struggles and triumphs with those around us. The novel’s heart lies in its portrayal of the beauty of human connection and its gentle assertion that our willingness to be vulnerable is one of our greatest gifts.
Swiftly paced and emotionally resonant, this is a story you can immerse yourself in and finish in no time—but its messages will linger long after. I wholeheartedly recommend Days at the Morisaki Bookshop to anyone seeking a captivating and reflective read that celebrates the quiet strength of human connections.
Favorite Lines
- And when I finally regained my presence of mind, I felt a sudden wave of grief come over me. Far more than anger. A grief so violent, so intensely palpable, that I felt like I could reach out and touch it.
- When I look back, the word that sums up the life I’d lived up till this point, all twenty five years of it, is “adequate”.
- The short version is I wanted to see the whole world for myself. I wanted to see the whole range of possibilities. Your life is yours. It doesn’t belong to anyone else. I wanted to know what it would mean to live life on my own terms. - Uncle Satoru
- …maybe it takes a long time to figure out what you’re truly searching for. Maybe you spend your whole life to just figure out a small part of it.
- It’s important to stand still sometimes. Think of it as a little rest in the long journey of your life. This is your harbor. And your boat is just dropping anchor here for a little while. And after you’re well rested, you can set sail again.
- No matter where you go, or how many books you read, you still know nothing, you haven’t seen anything. And that’s life. We live our lives trying to find our way.
- At some point, everyone has to find their safe harbor.
- It’s only in secondhand books that you can savor encounters like this, connections that transcend time.
- Don’t be afraid to love someone. When you fall in love, I want you to fall in love all the way. Even if it ends in heartache, please don’t live a lonely life without love.
- I don’t think it really matters whether you know a lot about books or not. But I think what matters far more with a book is how it affects you.
- Books have a way of finding you when you need them the most.
The novel is far more than a simple tale about a bookshop or its patrons. It’s a journey of restoration and solace, found within the comforting embrace of familiar places, the warmth of cherished relationships, and the profound meaning of lived experiences. It gently reminds us that the path to healing often lies hidden in the cozy corners of our everyday lives or the steadfast support of the people around us.
What struck me most was how the story defied my initial expectations. While it may not have been the page-turner I had anticipated, it turned out to be something far more rewarding—a heartwarming and thought-provoking narrative that resonated with me on a deeply personal level.
Momoko’s character was particularly striking. Initially, I was uncertain about how I felt regarding her return, but as her story unfolded, she emerged as a beautifully vulnerable and multi-dimensional figure. Her struggles with guilt, loss, and fear painted a poignant picture of a woman grappling with her past while striving for redemption. Momoko’s emotional journey stayed with me long after I turned the final page.
Although Tatako’s story initially drew me into the world of Morisaki Bookshop, it was Momoko’s complex, redemptive arc that truly captured my heart. Together with Uncle Satoru’s subtle self-discovery, the novel becomes a beautiful exploration of human emotions. It reminds us that no one is defined by a single choice or action; instead, our lives are intricate tapestries woven from our experiences. Our ability to grow, change, and reconcile with the past stands as a testament to our resilience and humanity.
The characters are vividly drawn, and their struggles feel deeply authentic. Tatako’s search for meaning, Momoko’s emotional reckoning, and Satoru’s quiet transformation illustrate that life is rarely as simple as it appears on the surface. The book reassures us that no matter how lost or broken we may feel, we are never too far gone to rediscover ourselves—be it through love, community, or even the comforting solitude of a small bookshop in Tokyo.
Above all, Days at the Morisaki Bookshop is a profound celebration of human vulnerability. It reminds us that love and connection require courage, authenticity, and a willingness to share our true selves. Our challenges are not meant to be faced alone; our strength lies in sharing our struggles and triumphs with those around us. The novel’s heart lies in its portrayal of the beauty of human connection and its gentle assertion that our willingness to be vulnerable is one of our greatest gifts.
Swiftly paced and emotionally resonant, this is a story you can immerse yourself in and finish in no time—but its messages will linger long after. I wholeheartedly recommend Days at the Morisaki Bookshop to anyone seeking a captivating and reflective read that celebrates the quiet strength of human connections.
Favorite Lines
- And when I finally regained my presence of mind, I felt a sudden wave of grief come over me. Far more than anger. A grief so violent, so intensely palpable, that I felt like I could reach out and touch it.
- When I look back, the word that sums up the life I’d lived up till this point, all twenty five years of it, is “adequate”.
- The short version is I wanted to see the whole world for myself. I wanted to see the whole range of possibilities. Your life is yours. It doesn’t belong to anyone else. I wanted to know what it would mean to live life on my own terms. - Uncle Satoru
- …maybe it takes a long time to figure out what you’re truly searching for. Maybe you spend your whole life to just figure out a small part of it.
- It’s important to stand still sometimes. Think of it as a little rest in the long journey of your life. This is your harbor. And your boat is just dropping anchor here for a little while. And after you’re well rested, you can set sail again.
- No matter where you go, or how many books you read, you still know nothing, you haven’t seen anything. And that’s life. We live our lives trying to find our way.
- At some point, everyone has to find their safe harbor.
- It’s only in secondhand books that you can savor encounters like this, connections that transcend time.
- Don’t be afraid to love someone. When you fall in love, I want you to fall in love all the way. Even if it ends in heartache, please don’t live a lonely life without love.
- I don’t think it really matters whether you know a lot about books or not. But I think what matters far more with a book is how it affects you.
- Books have a way of finding you when you need them the most.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity
Minor: Abortion
The protagonist, Takako, experiences heartbreak and comes to learn of her boyfriend’s infidelity.
Abortion is also addressed briefly. The topic arises in the context of a past relationship, and it is handled in a matter-of-fact and non-graphic way. The narrative doesn’t dwell on it but acknowledges it as part of the character’s emotional journey.
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A
As I read the book I was able to relax and reflect on my adoration for books and literature, deepen my interest in Japanese literature and yearn for a street full of second hand bookshops.
And I got the impression that that’s the author’s intention. I doubt this was meant to be a great literary statement for me at least Days at the Morisaki Bookshop is a love letter to books and their impact on their readers. The emotions, images and humanity they can inspire.
Long story short: I enjoyed reading the book and would recommend it for a slow, relaxing and comfortable reading experience wherever and whenever.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Chronic illness, Infertility, Infidelity, Miscarriage, Toxic relationship, Grief
emotional
hopeful
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Characters: 10/10
Relationships: 8.5/10
Atmosphere/Setting: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Plot/Intrigue: 8/10
Internal Logic: 9/10
Entertainment: 10/10
Overall: 65.5/70, 5*
"Somehow the whole story is suffused with this quiet tenderness. Little by little I felt something wash over me: a feeling of peace that words can't express. If I had to explain it I'd say it could only have come from the writer's fervent love for life." - Chapter 4, 1:12:14
"After all I was crying because I wanted to cry, and these were the happiest tears I'd ever known." - Chapter 8, 2:23:38
Relationships: 8.5/10
Atmosphere/Setting: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Plot/Intrigue: 8/10
Internal Logic: 9/10
Entertainment: 10/10
Overall: 65.5/70, 5*
"Somehow the whole story is suffused with this quiet tenderness. Little by little I felt something wash over me: a feeling of peace that words can't express. If I had to explain it I'd say it could only have come from the writer's fervent love for life." - Chapter 4, 1:12:14
"After all I was crying because I wanted to cry, and these were the happiest tears I'd ever known." - Chapter 8, 2:23:38
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infertility, Infidelity, Toxic relationship, Grief, Gaslighting, Abandonment
Moderate: Cancer, Child death, Miscarriage, Medical content, Medical trauma, Death of parent, Alcohol
Minor: Stalking
hopeful
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity
Moderate: Miscarriage, Suicidal thoughts, Terminal illness, Abortion, Death of parent
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Content Warnings
Moderate: Infidelity
Minor: Miscarriage, Abortion
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Moderate: Infidelity, Miscarriage, Abortion, Abandonment
Minor: Infertility
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infertility, Infidelity, Miscarriage
Moderate: Abortion
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity, Miscarriage, Abandonment
Moderate: Child death, Terminal illness, Abortion
Minor: Cancer, Infertility, Pregnancy
emotional
hopeful
relaxing
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
This was such an interesting book. The characters were so well written and their stories were endearing. This was the first translated book I have read so some of the nuances of the writing are probably a little lost but I really enjoyed this quick read! I’m looking forward to reading the next one and getting more of this little world.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity
Moderate: Infertility, Miscarriage, Terminal illness, Abortion