A review by netylu
Moshi Moshi by Banana Yoshimoto

hopeful 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

4.5

The central theme of this novel is grief (and the healing power of food and community). The narrator, Yocchan, recently lost her father, who died in a murder-suicide with a woman. She and her mother find this hard to comprehend and accept. The book is sad at times but hopeful. I kept thinking it's a great book to read in your early twenties when you're feeling a little lost, trying to detach yourself from your parents and find love.
Some comments for those who read the book are below.

In a way, this novel is a journey to acceptance. But also of letting go. After living with her mother, Yocchan learns to see her separately from her role as a parent. She has to accept her mother, grow up and face herself. She has to answer for herself who she wants to be with.
The title of the book is an echo of two things. One, it's Yocchan's dad, how he left his phone on the day he died and how Yocchan dreams of him calling, struggling to communicate that he loved them and it's okay to move on. On the other hand, it's the reassuring greeting of Yamazaki-san, with whom Yocchan feels safe and whom she loves. I feel the title is very fitting for the book.

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Suicide