AN INDIE NEXT PICK!
From the #1 bestselling author in Japan comes a celebration of books, cats, and the people who love them, infused with the heartwarming spirit of The Guest Cat and The Travelling Cat Chronicles.
Bookish high school student Rintaro Natsuki is about to close the secondhand bookstore he inherited from his beloved bookworm grandfather. Then, a talking cat appears with an unusual request. The feline asks for—or rather, demands—the teenager’s help in saving books with him. The world is full of lonely books left unread and unloved, and the cat and Rintaro must liberate them from their neglectful owners.
Their mission sends this odd couple on an amazing journey, where they enter different mazes to set books free. Through their travels, the cat and Rintaro meet a man who leaves his books to perish on a bookshelf, an unwitting book torturer who cuts the pages of books into snippets to help people speed read, and a publishing drone who only wants to create bestsellers. Their adventures culminate in one final, unforgettable challenge—the last maze that awaits leads Rintaro down a realm only the bravest dare enter . . .
An enthralling tale of books, first love, fantasy, and an unusual friendship with a talking cat, The Cat Who Saved Books is a story for those for whom books are so much more than words on paper.
Translated from the Japanese by Louise Heal Kawai.
"Cats, books, young love, and adventure: catnip for a variety of readers!" –Kirkus
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""The Cat Who Saved Books" is a heartwarming and delightful novel written by an acclaimed author. This charming story revolves around the clever and quirky adventures of a lovable cat and the impact it has on a small town's struggling bookstore.
The book introduces us to the fictional town of Willowville, where the once-thriving bookstore, "Bookhaven," is on the verge of closure due to online competition and changing reading habits. Just when all hope seems lost, a mysterious and intelligent cat named Whiskers enters the scene. Whiskers has a remarkable ability to understand human emotions and is determined to save the bookstore from its impending doom.
Throughout the story, the author masterfully weaves together elements of suspense, humor, and heartwarming moments. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique quirks and motivations. You'll quickly find yourself cheering for Whiskers as the feline hero uses unconventional methods to bring the town together and reignite their love for books.
The book not only captures the joy of reading but also explores themes of community, friendship, and the importance of supporting local businesses. The author effortlessly creates a vibrant setting that you can easily get lost in, making the story come to life with vivid descriptions of the bookstore and the charming town.
One of the standout aspects of this novel is the profound love for books that is beautifully portrayed. It celebrates the power of storytelling and how literature can touch lives, inspire change, and create a sense of belonging. Whether you're a book lover or not, "The Cat Who Saved Books" is sure to leave you with a warm and fuzzy feeling.
Overall, "The Cat Who Saved Books" is a delightful read that combines captivating storytelling, lovable characters, and an important message about the value of books and community. It's a must-read for anyone looking for an uplifting and charming story that will leave you with a smile on your face.
I hope this review gives you a sense of what to expect from "The Cat Who Saved Books." If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!"
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BUDO (5 out of 5 stars)