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                          The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa                          translated by Philip Gabriel

I read “The Travelling Cat Chronicles” about a year ago and it has stayed with me ever since. This book moved me so deeply. I am a cat person through and through (if you follow me on Instagram, you already know this). My cat, Penny, saved my life. I got her when I was in the throws of depression and she was my life line. I adopted her when she was about 3 years old. She was scared and unsure, but it didn’t take long for her to trust me. Over the years (it’s been four now) she’s been my constant companion and my snuggle buddy. I’m so grateful for her and for the special bond that can form with animals. Because of this, “The Travelling Cat Chronicles” was especially moving and beautiful. It is the story of how one man and one cat form an inseparable bond. It starts when the young man sees an injured stray and takes him in. From that point on they live their lives together until the young man decides to go on a trip. He takes the cat with him and they visit friend after friend with the intention of the cat living with one of them. Each time however the young man cannot leave the cat behind. By the end you realize the reason for the trip and watch the bond between cat and man strengthen. It’s heartbreakingly beautiful. I ugly cried (in the best way) by the end. The entire book is narrated by the cat, which was perfect. I loved how the story unfolded from his perspective. The story moves and flows which I have to attribute to the translator. The writing is stunning. Every aspect of this book is thoughtful, deep, and moving.

Summing it up: I just loved this book. It deeply affected me in the best way. I would say to read this book with a box of tissues, especially if you are an animal person. I highly recommend this beautiful, beautiful book!

All the best, Abbey