A Satisfying Short Book

One book that I finished a while ago, which really sticks in my memory, is about a Japanese guy who was visited by a charming cat. I know what you are thinking – ‘What?!’

This sweet little book attracted me as it sat on a Waterstones book shelf and I don’t know why, but for some reason the picture of the feline on the front got me intrigued enough to buy it. Being a Sunday Times Top Ten Bestseller also made it very tempting indeed.

The Guest Cat

A writer who had rented a room in a wealthy Japanese family’s garden apartment, pieced together a series of events in the lives of him and his wife where they both came into contact with a beautiful and very friendly cat.

Originally written as a series of essays, Takashi Hiraide fused them together into a small novella consisting of short chapters. The narrative is wonderfully written in a unique style that I have never witnessed before.

Over time, the guest cat became a lucky emblem for them. Chibi, the cat, was a regular visitor, consuming the food they left for him and entertaining them warmly. While this is a very sweet book, do not expect a thrilling mystery or complex drama. There is something soothing about the normality of it all.

Chibi somehow inspired both the man and his wife and became a massive part of their lives. A sad turn of events later put that relationship into question.

This is the first time I have read a book based in Japan and written in translation. It was brilliantly framed and totally absorbing. I can honestly say that I have never read anything quite so exquisitely unique.

Thank you for taking the time to read my brief book review. Here is another recent review of Exciting Times. Please consider following my blog for similar content about books and the environment.