aikanami's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
i found the writing to be quite stiff (but i guess this is understandable, the book being originally in japanese, after all). it was difficult to empathize with the characters with how directly and narratively their emotions were described. i think the author could have dwelled a little longer on certain points in the plot that were much too hastily written, especially
though the book is lacking on the surface, i had the loveliest time reading it. the book's fast pace and simple writing made it a quick, light and easy read. i loved seeing how takako changed herself and, subsequently, the people around her. you might find the writing dull, but you will surely leave satisfied— perhaps with a new determination to take life one slow step at a time and be a little more patient with yourself :)
Minor: Miscarriage and Infidelity
rupanjali's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Graphic: Infertility, Infidelity, and Miscarriage
Moderate: Child death, Terminal illness, and Abortion
Minor: Pregnancy and Cancer
prism_'s review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Moderate: Miscarriage, Pregnancy, Grief, Infertility, and Child death
Minor: Terminal illness and Infidelity
daryn's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Graphic: Abandonment
Moderate: Infidelity, Terminal illness, and Child death
Minor: Pregnancy
james1star's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Minor: Abortion, Infidelity, and Miscarriage
ruthypoo2's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Moderate: Infidelity
Minor: Miscarriage
tashtasher's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Moderate: Child death, Infidelity, Grief, and Miscarriage
Minor: Alcohol and Death of parent
clavishorti's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
The initial segment, which intimately chronicles Takako's journey, emerges as an exquisite literary jewel. It's not merely a story, but a narrative that ensnares the soul, etching an enduring impression on the reader's heart. The palpable rawness of emotion and the lingering touch of melancholy weave seamlessly through the pages, crafting an immersive reading experience that resonates on a profound level. Encountering a work of fiction capable of evoking such depth of sentiment is a rarity indeed.
Yet, as the tale gracefully transitions into its second phase, there's a subtle shift in narrative momentum. While the subject matter remains compelling, the delivery, though commendable, doesn't quite scale the same heights of brilliance as the initial part. Nevertheless, I find myself profoundly grateful to have journeyed through this book to its culmination. The layers of its narrative, each carefully woven, leave a lasting impression, a testament to the intricate artistry of Satoshi Yagisawa's storytelling.
The incorporation of a bookstore and its significance in the narrative is a stroke of genius. For avid readers, this element serves as a delightful treat, adding an extra layer of charm to the story. It's a book that offers solace to those who hold literature close to their hearts.
Beyond its literary charm, the novel tackles weighty themes with honesty and grace. Mental health, solitude, heartbreak, and the journey towards healing are skillfully woven into the narrative. It delves into the complexities of communication, self-discovery, family dynamics, and the rejuvenation of friendships. Through it all, the novel embraces the concept of new beginnings, painting a vivid portrait of the human experience.
Days at the Morisaki Bookshop is a beautifully crafted work that resonates on a profound level. It's a testament to the enduring power of literature to illuminate the complexities of our lives. This novel is not just a story; it's an experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.
Graphic: Infidelity
Moderate: Child death, Miscarriage, Terminal illness, Abortion, Cancer, and Mental illness
hayley_mariep's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Minor: Cancer, Death, Emotional abuse, Gaslighting, Grief, Infertility, Infidelity, Miscarriage, Terminal illness, and Pregnancy
nialiversuch's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Graphic: Abandonment and Grief
Minor: Infertility, Child death, Abortion, Terminal illness, and Infidelity