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thearieslibrary's review against another edition
5.0
When people die, they go to this magical photo studio where they view key moments from their life and get the opportunity to relive one precious memory before they pass on to the afterlife.
Props to Jesse Kirkwood on translating this beautiful book because he kills it with his translations - this is the second one that I’ve read by him and I really loved it. I was obsessed with the writing style and this will be a book that I will think about for a long time.
The atmosphere and setting was absolutely stunning - I felt like I was there with the characters experiencing their journey through the book. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters that are introduced and for such a short book, my god did it pack a punch!!
Our main man Hirasaka is an absolutely angel and I couldn’t think of a better character to guide others to the afterlife! I know if this was real life, I would want someone like Hirasaka to guide me to the afterlife. I really adored his character and the glimpse into his backstory. I also really loved the other characters that were introduced — Hatsue who was so lovely and touched so many people’s lives; Waniguchi who wasn’t all that bad; Mitsuru who was dealt such an awful hand in life but managed to turn it around; Yama who was a sweetheart, that delivers the files about each person who Hirasaka will be guiding to the afterlife.
There was some character flaws, a lot of development and how everything ties together is one of my favourite parts of this book. Their stories had me experiencing a range of emotions and ended in me crying uncontrollably. I love books that make me reflect on things, rip my heart out and then put it back together with hopefulness. Definitely recommend this one but please check content warnings first!
⚠️ CWs: animal cruelty/death, bullying, chronic illness, domestic abuse, death, drug use, emotional and physical abuse, suicide, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempt, abandonment, alcohol use, person with alcohol use disorder, murder, dementia, grief, mentions war, infertility, derogatory language, blood ⚠️
lorepanda's review
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse
Moderate: Bullying
vantxian's review
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
alvarito145's review
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
4.25
pagesofwyn's review
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
5.0
Damn i was not expecting to cry there at the end
creta's review
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25