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コンビニ兄弟 #1
The Convenience Store by the Sea
“언제든 찾아오세요. 항상 여기에 있을 테니까요” 오늘도 변함없이 불을 밝히고 손님을 맞는 이곳에서 서로 다른 각자가 함께 행복해지는 이야기가 펼쳐진다. * 서점대상 수상 작가의 최고 인기 시리즈 * 영상화 요청 쇄도 * 일본 판매 20만 부 돌파 기타큐슈 모지항이라는 조용한 항구에 자리한 텐더니스 편의점은 오늘도 시끌벅적하다. 꽃미남 점장의 사소한 몸짓, 말 한마디, 표정 하나에 그의 팬을 자처하는 여성들이 연달아 터트리는 환호성 때문. 그럴 때마다 고개를 절레절레 흔드는 아르바이트생 옆에서 파트타임 직원 미쓰리는 눈을 반짝이며 남모르게 미소 짓는다. 곧이어 수염을 덥수룩하게 기른 남자가 들어와 편의점을 제집처럼 활보하고, 빨간색 멜빵바지를 입은 할아버지는 시끄럽다며 모두 나가라고 고함을 질러 댄다. 여느 편의점에서는 볼 수 없는 수상쩍은 광경. 대체 이곳에서 무슨 일이 벌어지고 있는 걸까? 현재 왕성한 집필 활동으로 주목받는 마치다 소노코 작가의 연작 소설 『바다가 들리는 편의점』은 24시간 불이 꺼지지 않는 친근하고 일상적인 장소인 편의점을 무대로 나이, 성별, 취향, 사연, 그리고 편의점을 찾는 목적까지 제각각인 손님들과 어딘지 모르게 미스터리한 직원들이 펼치는 유쾌하고 따뜻한 이야기를 담고 있다. 일본 현지 출간 당시 “이 가상의 편의점에서 빠져나올 수가 없다”, “당장 영화나 드라마로 보고 싶다”라는 독자들의 호평이 쏟아진 작품으로 그 인기에 힘입어 2권이 출간되었고 곧 3권도 출간 예정이다. 개성 넘치는 등장인물과 잔잔하면서도 감동적인 에피소드로 작가가 전하고자 하는 바는 이웃끼리의 깊고 따뜻한 정서적 유대감과 타인의 고민을 함께 해결해주기 위해 노력한다는 상냥한 연대감이다. 읽고 나면 반드시 행복한 기분에 빠지게 될 『바다가 들리는 편의점』이 오늘도 환하게 불을 밝히고 당신의 방문을 기다린다.
Paperback
First published August 7, 2020
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About the author
Sonoko Machida
18 books124 followersSonoko Machida (町田 そのこ) is a Japanese writer. Her story Cameroon no Aoi Sakana received the R-18 Literary Award in 2016. Her novel 52 Hertz no Kujiratachi won the 2021 Japan Booksellers' Award Grand Prize and sold over 400,000 copies in Japan.
Associated Names:
* Sonoko Machida (English)
* 町田 そのこ (Japanese)
* มาจิดะ โซโนะโกะ (Thai)
Associated Names:
* Sonoko Machida (English)
* 町田 そのこ (Japanese)
* มาจิดะ โซโนะโกะ (Thai)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,294 reviews
November 19, 2025
it seems like this book was made for me in a lab.
this title/cover/synopsis combo was just too much to resist.
this is a lot closer to what you are looking for is in the library than convenience store woman, in that it's a lot of cute pleasant stories with happily ever afters set in a place i like, but i did enjoy it.
even though there was much more of a focus on a convenience store manager whose natural scent is so irresistible it makes people into regulars and guests think he's a pop star.
that part i could maybe have skipped.
bottom line: i am a little dissatisfied, both by the book and by now really wanting a snack.
this title/cover/synopsis combo was just too much to resist.
this is a lot closer to what you are looking for is in the library than convenience store woman, in that it's a lot of cute pleasant stories with happily ever afters set in a place i like, but i did enjoy it.
even though there was much more of a focus on a convenience store manager whose natural scent is so irresistible it makes people into regulars and guests think he's a pop star.
that part i could maybe have skipped.
bottom line: i am a little dissatisfied, both by the book and by now really wanting a snack.
July 29, 2025
3.75 stars ⭐
⤷ spoiler-free review!! ⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪
this book is a beautiful collection of interconnected short stories centered around a small convenience store called Tenderness, nestled in the peaceful town of Mojiko, Kitakyushu. each chapter introduces us to different individuals whose lives, in one way or another, intertwine with the store—creating a touching tapestry of everyday life, quiet revelations, and unexpected connections.
reading this felt like being wrapped in a warm hug. it’s wholesome, heartwarming, and incredibly uplifting—filled with gentle life lessons and deeply meaningful themes like personal growth and relationships. every story left a mark, but my personal favorites were A Melancholy Strawberry Parfait 🍓 and A Soft Egg Porridge for a Hard Old Man 🥣—they hit me right in the feels in the best way.
what made this book even more special to me was its setting. there’s something so nostalgic and comforting about the stories set in a konbini. it brought back so many memories of my own time in japan—walking into a convenience store late at night after a long day of exploring, grabbing a warm famichiki, an egg sandwich, or whatever new snack caught my eye. i found myself missing those quiet moments, the simple joy of everyday routines, and the warmth of japan’s konbinis more than ever. i truly can’t wait to go back someday 🥹
if you’re looking for a feel-good read that gently tugs at your heartstrings and reminds you of the beauty in ordinary moments, this one’s definitely worth picking up ~
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ quotes
“The greatest pleasure in life is to eat good food while talking about how good it is.”
“It's hard to know what's inside a person. If you judge people only by their words and faces, you miss the really important things. But then, what should we do instead? I think it's best to let people's actions speak for themselves.”
“You can have regrets in life, but that doesn't mean you can't do something about them. It's okay.”
“I don't care what they say. There are more important things to do than worry about what other people think. I don't want to be sorry later that I missed something really important because I was focused on things that didn't matter.”
"And maybe one day, I'll know love. I'll pine for love, and lose it, I'll laugh and cry over it, and maybe like my parents did, I'll find a way to keep it. Even if that's still far off in my future."
pre-read 🌊
i was in japan exactly a year ago today (20/07/2024) and i’ve been missing it so much, so i figured i’d revisit it in the best way possible for now—through a story set in a japanese convenience store 🥹
⤷ spoiler-free review!! ⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪
this book is a beautiful collection of interconnected short stories centered around a small convenience store called Tenderness, nestled in the peaceful town of Mojiko, Kitakyushu. each chapter introduces us to different individuals whose lives, in one way or another, intertwine with the store—creating a touching tapestry of everyday life, quiet revelations, and unexpected connections.
reading this felt like being wrapped in a warm hug. it’s wholesome, heartwarming, and incredibly uplifting—filled with gentle life lessons and deeply meaningful themes like personal growth and relationships. every story left a mark, but my personal favorites were A Melancholy Strawberry Parfait 🍓 and A Soft Egg Porridge for a Hard Old Man 🥣—they hit me right in the feels in the best way.
what made this book even more special to me was its setting. there’s something so nostalgic and comforting about the stories set in a konbini. it brought back so many memories of my own time in japan—walking into a convenience store late at night after a long day of exploring, grabbing a warm famichiki, an egg sandwich, or whatever new snack caught my eye. i found myself missing those quiet moments, the simple joy of everyday routines, and the warmth of japan’s konbinis more than ever. i truly can’t wait to go back someday 🥹
if you’re looking for a feel-good read that gently tugs at your heartstrings and reminds you of the beauty in ordinary moments, this one’s definitely worth picking up ~
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ quotes
“The greatest pleasure in life is to eat good food while talking about how good it is.”
“It's hard to know what's inside a person. If you judge people only by their words and faces, you miss the really important things. But then, what should we do instead? I think it's best to let people's actions speak for themselves.”
“You can have regrets in life, but that doesn't mean you can't do something about them. It's okay.”
“I don't care what they say. There are more important things to do than worry about what other people think. I don't want to be sorry later that I missed something really important because I was focused on things that didn't matter.”
"And maybe one day, I'll know love. I'll pine for love, and lose it, I'll laugh and cry over it, and maybe like my parents did, I'll find a way to keep it. Even if that's still far off in my future."
pre-read 🌊
i was in japan exactly a year ago today (20/07/2024) and i’ve been missing it so much, so i figured i’d revisit it in the best way possible for now—through a story set in a japanese convenience store 🥹
April 14, 2025
I enjoy stories set in convenience stores, especially those in Japan.
This time, the story takes place in Tenderness, a small convenience store in the seaside town of Mojiko, Kitakyushu.
The book shares several intertwined stories of people connected to this store.
I really liked the characters — Shiba, Mitsuri, the Whatever Guy, Shohei, and many others.
The community around the store feels kind, warm, and full of simple joys.
The book never shouts. It listens. It reminds me that small acts of kindness can ripple through a community and change lives.
I felt a kind of soft melancholy while reading.
The characters carry wounds, regrets, or quiet hopes but there’s also a gentle, comforting joy throughout.
This time, the story takes place in Tenderness, a small convenience store in the seaside town of Mojiko, Kitakyushu.
The book shares several intertwined stories of people connected to this store.
I really liked the characters — Shiba, Mitsuri, the Whatever Guy, Shohei, and many others.
The community around the store feels kind, warm, and full of simple joys.
The book never shouts. It listens. It reminds me that small acts of kindness can ripple through a community and change lives.
I felt a kind of soft melancholy while reading.
The characters carry wounds, regrets, or quiet hopes but there’s also a gentle, comforting joy throughout.
September 6, 2025
3.5 stars.
Slice of life is my favorite genre, and I find it immensely comforting and relaxing to immerse myself in stories about ordinary people navigating life’s myriad challenges. Unlike more dramatic genres that often spiral into excessive angst or overwhelming happiness, slice-of-life tales provide a grounded perspective that alleviates my anxiety, which might explain my fondness for this genre.
This book features six distinct stories, and while not all resonated with me equally, each one contained moments that brought a smile to my face. My standout favorites were certainly the first story, “My Convenience is Your Convenience,” and the third story, “A Melancholy Strawberry Parfait.” Both were exquisitely crafted and left a lasting impression.
The first story follows Mitsuri Nakao, a thirty-year-old woman leading a contented life enriched by her passions and family. I thoroughly adored the author’s nuanced portrayal of Mitsuri as a multifaceted character. Although she is a devoted mother, the narrative ensures she is depicted as a woman with her own ambitions and interests outside of motherhood. I particularly appreciated her deep love for manga, which added an interesting dimension to her character. The relationship between Mitsuri and her husband was beautifully rendered; they shared a joyful, carefree marriage that radiated mutual respect and understanding, making their dynamic inspiring to read about.
In the third story, we meet Azusa, a middle school girl with an insatiable love for sweets, which is woven into the fabric of her character. The author sensitively explores themes of toxic friendships and the empowerment that comes from self-advocacy. Azusa’s friendship with Nayuta tugged at my heartstrings; their interactions were both tender and poignant, encapsulating the complexities of young friendship. The way they supported each other through struggles was incredibly heartwarming.
I was also quite taken with the fifth story, “Advent Calendar Cookies of Love and Longing.” Although it frustrated me at times—primarily due to Kōsei Nakao, Mitsuri’s teenage son—I found it to be deeply emotional and impactful. His character arc was challenging, and I often felt compelled to react to his decisions, wanting to shake some sense into him! However, his evolving friendship with Kozeki was my favorite part of the story. I also greatly valued how Kōsei began to appreciate his mother’s role and learned to respect his parents' relationship, which was a significant growth point for him.
However, I did have some reservations. A few stories felt tedious or featured characters I struggled to connect with, which dampened my engagement. Additionally, I found certain elements unsettling, particularly the portrayal of Shiba’s fan club. Their obsessive behavior struck me as creepy and slightly disturbing, detracting from an otherwise enjoyable reading experience.
In conclusion, this collection was a light and uplifting read, seamlessly weaving ordinary life moments with deeper emotional themes. Despite some shortcomings, I genuinely enjoyed the overall experience and looked forward to the warmth each story brought to my day.
Slice of life is my favorite genre, and I find it immensely comforting and relaxing to immerse myself in stories about ordinary people navigating life’s myriad challenges. Unlike more dramatic genres that often spiral into excessive angst or overwhelming happiness, slice-of-life tales provide a grounded perspective that alleviates my anxiety, which might explain my fondness for this genre.
This book features six distinct stories, and while not all resonated with me equally, each one contained moments that brought a smile to my face. My standout favorites were certainly the first story, “My Convenience is Your Convenience,” and the third story, “A Melancholy Strawberry Parfait.” Both were exquisitely crafted and left a lasting impression.
The first story follows Mitsuri Nakao, a thirty-year-old woman leading a contented life enriched by her passions and family. I thoroughly adored the author’s nuanced portrayal of Mitsuri as a multifaceted character. Although she is a devoted mother, the narrative ensures she is depicted as a woman with her own ambitions and interests outside of motherhood. I particularly appreciated her deep love for manga, which added an interesting dimension to her character. The relationship between Mitsuri and her husband was beautifully rendered; they shared a joyful, carefree marriage that radiated mutual respect and understanding, making their dynamic inspiring to read about.
In the third story, we meet Azusa, a middle school girl with an insatiable love for sweets, which is woven into the fabric of her character. The author sensitively explores themes of toxic friendships and the empowerment that comes from self-advocacy. Azusa’s friendship with Nayuta tugged at my heartstrings; their interactions were both tender and poignant, encapsulating the complexities of young friendship. The way they supported each other through struggles was incredibly heartwarming.
I was also quite taken with the fifth story, “Advent Calendar Cookies of Love and Longing.” Although it frustrated me at times—primarily due to Kōsei Nakao, Mitsuri’s teenage son—I found it to be deeply emotional and impactful. His character arc was challenging, and I often felt compelled to react to his decisions, wanting to shake some sense into him! However, his evolving friendship with Kozeki was my favorite part of the story. I also greatly valued how Kōsei began to appreciate his mother’s role and learned to respect his parents' relationship, which was a significant growth point for him.
However, I did have some reservations. A few stories felt tedious or featured characters I struggled to connect with, which dampened my engagement. Additionally, I found certain elements unsettling, particularly the portrayal of Shiba’s fan club. Their obsessive behavior struck me as creepy and slightly disturbing, detracting from an otherwise enjoyable reading experience.
In conclusion, this collection was a light and uplifting read, seamlessly weaving ordinary life moments with deeper emotional themes. Despite some shortcomings, I genuinely enjoyed the overall experience and looked forward to the warmth each story brought to my day.
February 3, 2025
Hugely popular in Japan, this is the first in a series revolving around the Tenderness convenience store near Mojiko Port in Kitayushu – where the author lives and works. A variation on bestselling ‘healing’ narratives, it’s comprised of interconnecting episodes centred on this quirky 24/7 shop – the kind of place once common across Japan but now rapidly closing or acquired by large corporations. The shop has a unique feature that’s made it particularly successful, it’s run by Shiba aka Phero-manager who exudes an overwhelming, indefinable charm that’s proven a massive lure for customers. Prolific author Sonoko Machida’s slice-of-life stories focus on different members of the community surrounding the store: shop assistant Mitsuri Nakao whose spare time’s taken up with devising manga based on Shiba’s life; a couple having difficulty adjusting to retirement; a cram-school tutor who dreams of a different life. Machida draws, at times, from her own experience, notably in the section featuring Azusa a teenage schoolgirl struggling to break free from an oppressive friendship group.
Overall, it’s richly detailed, fairly well observed. Although it’s clearly based on a fantasy of found friendship and connection, which is key to the appeal of this type of novel, there’s a marked emphasis on exploring concrete, societal issues in contemporary Japan: from bullying in schools to aging, isolation and the growth of ‘grey divorce.’ Sometimes the realist elements and the more whimsical ones – particularly Shiba’s bizarre appeal and growing flock of adoring fans – don’t combine as smoothly as I’d have liked but it’s still a very readable piece, an intriguing addition to this growing subgenre. Translated by Bruno Navasky.
Thanks to Netgalley and publisher Orion for an ARC
Overall, it’s richly detailed, fairly well observed. Although it’s clearly based on a fantasy of found friendship and connection, which is key to the appeal of this type of novel, there’s a marked emphasis on exploring concrete, societal issues in contemporary Japan: from bullying in schools to aging, isolation and the growth of ‘grey divorce.’ Sometimes the realist elements and the more whimsical ones – particularly Shiba’s bizarre appeal and growing flock of adoring fans – don’t combine as smoothly as I’d have liked but it’s still a very readable piece, an intriguing addition to this growing subgenre. Translated by Bruno Navasky.
Thanks to Netgalley and publisher Orion for an ARC
July 18, 2025
I’m a mood reader who wandered in like a tired customer and left with a warm rice ball and feelings I didn’t expect. Cozy. Strange. Kind. I’ll be back for the next installment 🤍
#The52BookClub
34. Direction In The Title
January 21, 2025
DNF @ 48%
I have been reading this book for well over 2 months now and picking it up frequently trying to push through it but unfortunately I have to DNF this one now and not continue putting effort into reading a book I am not enjoying.
My main issue with this book is just the lack of plot or direction and this is coming from someone who loves slice-of-life translated fiction. I just got nothing out of the 130ish pages I read and did not connect with any character or storyline. I didn't enjoy the writing style either.
I am always disappointed to DNF an arc, especially one that I was so looking forward to but this one hasn't lived up to expectations.
1 star
Thank you to NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group and Sonoko Machida for a digital review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have been reading this book for well over 2 months now and picking it up frequently trying to push through it but unfortunately I have to DNF this one now and not continue putting effort into reading a book I am not enjoying.
My main issue with this book is just the lack of plot or direction and this is coming from someone who loves slice-of-life translated fiction. I just got nothing out of the 130ish pages I read and did not connect with any character or storyline. I didn't enjoy the writing style either.
I am always disappointed to DNF an arc, especially one that I was so looking forward to but this one hasn't lived up to expectations.
1 star
Thank you to NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group and Sonoko Machida for a digital review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2025
where are the rest of the stories?? that was the ending??
──★ ˙🪁 ̟ preread !!
I need something new and calming, I’ve had too much drama lately 😭 and Japan has always been a dream and I fell in love with the cover 🥹💙
──★ ˙🪁 ̟ preread !!
I need something new and calming, I’ve had too much drama lately 😭 and Japan has always been a dream and I fell in love with the cover 🥹💙
April 17, 2025
exactly what i need in life right now
October 2, 2025
الرواية 5/5 ⭐️
الترجمة 5/5 ⭐️
الرواية حلوة جدا والشخصيات لطيفة اوي
عجبتني جدا المشاكل اللي اتكلموا عنها وحبيت شخصية رجل المهام الصعبة
بس كنت عايزة اعرف اكتر عن حياته وحياة المدير حستهم محتاجين رواية لوحدهم
الرواية من ألطف الروايات اللي قرأتها السنة دي
الترجمة 5/5 ⭐️
الرواية حلوة جدا والشخصيات لطيفة اوي
عجبتني جدا المشاكل اللي اتكلموا عنها وحبيت شخصية رجل المهام الصعبة
بس كنت عايزة اعرف اكتر عن حياته وحياة المدير حستهم محتاجين رواية لوحدهم
الرواية من ألطف الروايات اللي قرأتها السنة دي
December 26, 2024
I really do have a fondness for this type of Japanese literature. A heart-warming story of the importance of the local convenience store (also known as Konbini) in the japanese society. This book has multiple stories that centres around the local convenience store Tenderness and its Manager Shiba. Whilst there were few stories that I really enjoyed, there were also few that I did find tedious and not as engaging as others. Having said that I really did like this book and made me miss the convenience stores of Japan.
Thank you Orion Publishing Group for the eArc via NetGalley.
Thank you Orion Publishing Group for the eArc via NetGalley.
April 6, 2025
There’s just something so endlessly comforting to me about this slice of life genre. A collection of loosely connected stories centering around a convenience store, with food at the heart of it all. I love it. If you’ve read The Kamogawa Food Detectives or The Curios Kitten at the Chibineko Kitchen, this one will feel right at home. Probably with a steaming bowl of something delicious in hand, if you’re anything like me.
I always want to live inside books like this. Where the stakes are low, the people are kind, and the food always sounds delicious. They always leave me with such peace of mind, and a cozy feel. I would give anything to live near a convenience store like this. Mine just sells mediocre hot dogs and lottery tickets.
I will say, the writing does feel a little basic at times, almost overly simple. But I also understand that this is a translation, and that might be part of the reason. Still, there’s a charm in not having to think too hard while reading. Sometimes the simplicity works in the book’s favor. Letting the cozy atmosphere and gentle emotions take center stage without distraction. Honestly, every now and then it’s nice taking a break from deciphering metaphors or wading through existential dread, though I do love a good spiral into philosophical angst now and then.
Overall, I found this to be a soothing, slow paced read. Like literary comfort food.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putman for the ARC!
I always want to live inside books like this. Where the stakes are low, the people are kind, and the food always sounds delicious. They always leave me with such peace of mind, and a cozy feel. I would give anything to live near a convenience store like this. Mine just sells mediocre hot dogs and lottery tickets.
I will say, the writing does feel a little basic at times, almost overly simple. But I also understand that this is a translation, and that might be part of the reason. Still, there’s a charm in not having to think too hard while reading. Sometimes the simplicity works in the book’s favor. Letting the cozy atmosphere and gentle emotions take center stage without distraction. Honestly, every now and then it’s nice taking a break from deciphering metaphors or wading through existential dread, though I do love a good spiral into philosophical angst now and then.
Overall, I found this to be a soothing, slow paced read. Like literary comfort food.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putman for the ARC!
July 20, 2025
almost put me in a reading slump
August 13, 2025
I think this is my favorite translated Japanese fiction so far! :-)
June 4, 2025
At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the story being so male centered, but after getting past the first chapter, I began to connect with the other characters and found myself enjoying the book much more. Shiba is such a wholesome and pure soul, it’s impossible not to love him. The final chapter genuinely made me laugh. Overall, it was a heartwarming and unexpectedly entertaining read.
January 24, 2025
Abit meh for me perhaps I have been reading too many books of the same genre. It follows the same formula: interconnected characters with each character having their own chapter. In no page of the book does the cat on the cover make its appearance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2025
حكايات منفصلة يجمعها مكان واحد هو متجر صغير في مجمع سكني عن الحب و الصداقة و عن التسامح و الغفران عن الحياة بزخمها و عنفوانها.
عمل ينقل القارئ الى الجزء الايجابي من الحاة اليومية .
عمل ينقل القارئ الى الجزء الايجابي من الحاة اليومية .
April 14, 2025
This book is a collection of interconnected stories about the customers who visit Tenderness, a small convenience store managed by Mr. Shiba. While some parts of the book may feel a little slow or chaotic at times, overall, it is a heartwarming and meaningful read. Each chapter carries its own life lesson, making the stories both engaging and thought-provoking. I particularly enjoyed the characters, especially Tsugi and Mitsuri. However, I wish there had been more exploration of Tsugi’s feelings of love and longing, as well as deeper insight into Mr. Shiba’s character. Initially, I expected the book to focus more on Shiba himself, but he ultimately plays more of a supportive role in the story.
The book introduces quite a few characters, but thankfully, they are all distinct and well-written, making them easy to follow. The most interesting part for me was the connection between Shiba and Tsugi. When I reached this scene, the book truly came to life, and I found myself more invested in the story.
One of the concepts I loved most was the Yellow Flag Campaign, a program designed for seniors who live alone. Instead of simply raising a flag to signal that they are okay, the elderly participants must come to Tenderness to pick up their lunch. This small but meaningful interaction adds a layer of community and care, ensuring that they stay connected with others rather than being isolated.
Throughout the book, there are several touching life lessons:
❀ Having the courage to continue doing what you love isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.
❀ Standing on your own and choosing the right path for yourself is important, and we shouldn’t judge people solely based on appearances.
❀ A father realizes that simply providing financial support isn’t enough—being present for his family matters just as much.
❀ The book also explores themes of aging, dying, and the significant life changes that come with retirement.
Overall, this book offers a warm and reflective look at everyday life, relationships, and personal growth, all centered around the welcoming atmosphere of Tenderness. It was a simple and enjoyable book to read at your own pace. Recommended if you appreciate slice-of-life Japanese literature.
"I don't care what they say. There are more important things to do than worry about what other people think. I don't want to be sorry later that I missed something really important because I was focused on things that didn't matter."
Thank you, Pansing, for the review copy!
The book introduces quite a few characters, but thankfully, they are all distinct and well-written, making them easy to follow. The most interesting part for me was the connection between Shiba and Tsugi. When I reached this scene, the book truly came to life, and I found myself more invested in the story.
One of the concepts I loved most was the Yellow Flag Campaign, a program designed for seniors who live alone. Instead of simply raising a flag to signal that they are okay, the elderly participants must come to Tenderness to pick up their lunch. This small but meaningful interaction adds a layer of community and care, ensuring that they stay connected with others rather than being isolated.
Throughout the book, there are several touching life lessons:
❀ Having the courage to continue doing what you love isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.
❀ Standing on your own and choosing the right path for yourself is important, and we shouldn’t judge people solely based on appearances.
❀ A father realizes that simply providing financial support isn’t enough—being present for his family matters just as much.
❀ The book also explores themes of aging, dying, and the significant life changes that come with retirement.
Overall, this book offers a warm and reflective look at everyday life, relationships, and personal growth, all centered around the welcoming atmosphere of Tenderness. It was a simple and enjoyable book to read at your own pace. Recommended if you appreciate slice-of-life Japanese literature.
"I don't care what they say. There are more important things to do than worry about what other people think. I don't want to be sorry later that I missed something really important because I was focused on things that didn't matter."
Thank you, Pansing, for the review copy!
November 9, 2023
ขอให้ลืม 52hz หม่นๆ พังๆ ไปเลยเพราะเล่มนี้แจกความสดใสตั้งแต่หน้าแรกยันหน้าสุดท้าย เหมือนเขียนเอาไว้ให้ไปสร้างละคอนในช่อง Nippon TV ได้เลย ไม่ต้องคิดมาก ตัวละครหล่อปริศนาเยอะ กับเหล่าลูกค้าและเพื่อนร่วมงานที่ต่างสร้างปัญหาและความสนุกมาเสิร์ฟถึงที่
อ่านแล้วนึกถึงญี่ปุ่นจริงๆ อยากไปญี่ปุ่นอีกเลย! (คราวนี้ใช้คำว่า “อีก” ได้เพราะเคยไปแล้ว เย่) มีวันหนึ่งตอนไปญี่ปุ่นเรามีเวลาว่างช่วงเช้าๆ กับเย็นๆ ตอนเช้าเลยเดินสำรวจร้านสะดวกซื้อย่านที่พักโดยพยายามหารองเท้าแตะ (รองเท้าเพื่อนชุ่มฝนพอดี) ก็เลยได้โอกาสสำรวจขนมไปด้วย ร้านสะดวกซื้อแต่ละเจ้าก็มีจุดเด่นของขนมไม่เหมือนกันจริงๆ กาแฟก็ไม่เหมือนด้วย ถ้ากาแฟเด็ดสุดเรายกให้ family mart ส่วนขนมก็คละๆ กันไป และในร้านสะดวกซื้อแต่ละที่จะมีจุดให้ไปนั่งกินข้าวหรือแกะขนมกินแถวๆ นั้นได้ด้วย (นี่รีวิวหนังสือหรือรีวิวทริป? อะๆ กลับมาหนังสือละ) ซึ่งตอนที่อ่านเล่มนี้ทำให้เรานึกภาพบรรยายกาศแบบนั้นได้จริงๆ
เทนเดอร์เนสประกอบไปด้วยหกเรื่องสั้นในชุดเดียวกัน แต่ละคนก็มีปัญหาที่แตกต่างกันไปตามละเรื่อง มีตั้งแต่เรื่องเด็กมอต้นไปจนถึงวัยแก่ที่ต้องหา second jobs หลังเกษียณ (ยืนยันว่าคนทำงานมา เกษียณแล้วก็ไม่ได้อยากเลิกทำงานหรอก แต่อยากทำงานที่เราชอบมากกว่าทำงานเพื่อรายได้) โดยเรื่องที่เราชอบเป็นพิเศษคือเรื่องเด็กมอต้นที่ชอบกินขนมกับเพื่อน เราว่าเขาบรรยายความรู้สึกอึดอัดของเด็กๆ ที่ต้องทำตามเพื่อนๆ ได้ดี อ่านแล้วน้ำตาซึมในมิตรภาพ ส่วนอีกห้าเรื่องเราไม่ได้ชอบเรื่องไหนเป็นพิเศษ จริงๆ ต้องพูดว่าเป็นหนังสือฮีลใจที่ส่วนตัวแล้วไม่ได้ดึงดูดอะไรเพราะไม่มีเรื่องดราม่า แง ขอโทษที่ช่วงนี้ชอบเรื่องดราม่าเข้มข้น เพราะงั้น เทนเดอร์เนสจะเป็นหนังสือสำหรับคนที่ต้องการการพักเบรกจากเรื่องหนักๆ อยากอ่านอะไรสบายๆ เป็นเรื่องราวใกล้ตัวของคนในชุมชน มีความแฟนซีนิดๆ เพราะผจกหล่อเกินไป แต่ในส่วนของการแก้ไขปัญหาที่เกิดขึ้นต่างๆ เราว่าคลี่คลายได้ดีพอตัว แต่อีกส่วนนึงวิธีการเล่าที่ใช้มุมมองคนอื่นๆ รอบตัวผจกในการบรรยายความหล่อเท่ตลอด และวางตัวผจกเป็นศูนย์กลางของทุกอย่างทำให้เรารู้สึกว่า ตัวผจกน่าสนใจก็จริง แต่เราไม่รู้จักตัวตนคนๆ นี้จริงๆ เลยนะ เลยแอบรู้สึกต่อไม่ติดกับเล่มนี้เลย
แต่ถึงอย่างนั้นตอนสุดท้ายจบแบบปลายเปิด คิดว่าคงวางไว้เผื่อเขียนภาคขยายต่อได้ เพราะมีเรื่องที่เราบอกต่อไม่ติดนี่แหละน่าจะคลี่คลายในเล่มอื่นๆ (ถ้าได้เขียนต่ออะนะ)
อ่านแล้วนึกถึงญี่ปุ่นจริงๆ อยากไปญี่ปุ่นอีกเลย! (คราวนี้ใช้คำว่า “อีก” ได้เพราะเคยไปแล้ว เย่) มีวันหนึ่งตอนไปญี่ปุ่นเรามีเวลาว่างช่วงเช้าๆ กับเย็นๆ ตอนเช้าเลยเดินสำรวจร้านสะดวกซื้อย่านที่พักโดยพยายามหารองเท้าแตะ (รองเท้าเพื่อนชุ่มฝนพอดี) ก็เลยได้โอกาสสำรวจขนมไปด้วย ร้านสะดวกซื้อแต่ละเจ้าก็มีจุดเด่นของขนมไม่เหมือนกันจริงๆ กาแฟก็ไม่เหมือนด้วย ถ้ากาแฟเด็ดสุดเรายกให้ family mart ส่วนขนมก็คละๆ กันไป และในร้านสะดวกซื้อแต่ละที่จะมีจุดให้ไปนั่งกินข้าวหรือแกะขนมกินแถวๆ นั้นได้ด้วย (นี่รีวิวหนังสือหรือรีวิวทริป? อะๆ กลับมาหนังสือละ) ซึ่งตอนที่อ่านเล่มนี้ทำให้เรานึกภาพบรรยายกาศแบบนั้นได้จริงๆ
เทนเดอร์เนสประกอบไปด้วยหกเรื่องสั้นในชุดเดียวกัน แต่ละคนก็มีปัญหาที่แตกต่างกันไปตามละเรื่อง มีตั้งแต่เรื่องเด็กมอต้นไปจนถึงวัยแก่ที่ต้องหา second jobs หลังเกษียณ (ยืนยันว่าคนทำงานมา เกษียณแล้วก็ไม่ได้อยากเลิกทำงานหรอก แต่อยากทำงานที่เราชอบมากกว่าทำงานเพื่อรายได้) โดยเรื่องที่เราชอบเป็นพิเศษคือเรื่องเด็กมอต้นที่ชอบกินขนมกับเพื่อน เราว่าเขาบรรยายความรู้สึกอึดอัดของเด็กๆ ที่ต้องทำตามเพื่อนๆ ได้ดี อ่านแล้วน้ำตาซึมในมิตรภาพ ส่วนอีกห้าเรื่องเราไม่ได้ชอบเรื่องไหนเป็นพิเศษ จริงๆ ต้องพูดว่าเป็นหนังสือฮีลใจที่ส่วนตัวแล้วไม่ได้ดึงดูดอะไรเพราะไม่มีเรื่องดราม่า แง ขอโทษที่ช่วงนี้ชอบเรื่องดราม่าเข้มข้น เพราะงั้น เทนเดอร์เนสจะเป็นหนังสือสำหรับคนที่ต้องการการพักเบรกจากเรื่องหนักๆ อยากอ่านอะไรสบายๆ เป็นเรื่องราวใกล้ตัวของคนในชุมชน มีความแฟนซีนิดๆ เพราะผจกหล่อเกินไป แต่ในส่วนของการแก้ไขปัญหาที่เกิดขึ้นต่างๆ เราว่าคลี่คลายได้ดีพอตัว แต่อีกส่วนนึงวิธีการเล่าที่ใช้มุมมองคนอื่นๆ รอบตัวผจกในการบรรยายความหล่อเท่ตลอด และวางตัวผจกเป็นศูนย์กลางของทุกอย่างทำให้เรารู้สึกว่า ตัวผจกน่าสนใจก็จริง แต่เราไม่รู้จักตัวตนคนๆ นี้จริงๆ เลยนะ เลยแอบรู้สึกต่อไม่ติดกับเล่มนี้เลย
แต่ถึงอย่างนั้นตอนสุดท้ายจบแบบปลายเปิด คิดว่าคงวางไว้เผื่อเขียนภาคขยายต่อได้ เพราะมีเรื่องที่เราบอกต่อไม่ติดนี่แหละน่าจะคลี่คลายในเล่มอื่นๆ (ถ้าได้เขียนต่ออะนะ)
July 11, 2025
The cover art on this book is just beautiful: a gentle, slice-of-life scene with a gorgeous colour palette. I’d totally buy an art print of it!
Within these serial shorts, we have a fantastic food writing and the food theme across the most of stories really worked. To illustrate: for me, there’s nothing for vile than egg salad sandwiches, seriously the mere thought makes me feel sick; but, the way these were described in the second story were starting to win me over and make me hungry. That’s powerful writing!
The sense of place was excellent - I loved the vibe of the convenience store! The interconnectedness of the stories was enjoyable too, I particularly love the serial short format in stories like this.
My favourite section was Melancholy Strawberry Parfait with the schoolgirls who bond over their sweets and form a meaningful friendship. It was emotive but also quite sweet.
The least enjoyable was Advent Calendar Cookies of Love and Longing which didn’t have the food theme but loads of high school angst. It was also the only chapter that wasn’t significantly connected to the convenience store.
I didn’t like the weird sex-appeal thing surrounding the manager. It didn’t contribute anything to the story except awkwardness and I don’t understand what the point of it was. The convenience store stood on its own merits without that weirdness.
Bruno Navasky is a gifted translator. This was one of the more enjoyable translations I’ve read in 2024. He brought the story and world to life for English speakers in a way that felt authentic and unobtrusive. I’ll keep my eyes open for future works of his!
I was privileged to have my request to read this book accepted through NetGalley. Thank you so much, Orion! ✨
Within these serial shorts, we have a fantastic food writing and the food theme across the most of stories really worked. To illustrate: for me, there’s nothing for vile than egg salad sandwiches, seriously the mere thought makes me feel sick; but, the way these were described in the second story were starting to win me over and make me hungry. That’s powerful writing!
The sense of place was excellent - I loved the vibe of the convenience store! The interconnectedness of the stories was enjoyable too, I particularly love the serial short format in stories like this.
My favourite section was Melancholy Strawberry Parfait with the schoolgirls who bond over their sweets and form a meaningful friendship. It was emotive but also quite sweet.
The least enjoyable was Advent Calendar Cookies of Love and Longing which didn’t have the food theme but loads of high school angst. It was also the only chapter that wasn’t significantly connected to the convenience store.
I didn’t like the weird sex-appeal thing surrounding the manager. It didn’t contribute anything to the story except awkwardness and I don’t understand what the point of it was. The convenience store stood on its own merits without that weirdness.
Bruno Navasky is a gifted translator. This was one of the more enjoyable translations I’ve read in 2024. He brought the story and world to life for English speakers in a way that felt authentic and unobtrusive. I’ll keep my eyes open for future works of his!
I was privileged to have my request to read this book accepted through NetGalley. Thank you so much, Orion! ✨
June 1, 2025
Sadly, I didn’t like this one. I fount everything about it pointless. The cover is stunning though and that made me buy this. Sadly, the story wasn’t for me.
July 27, 2025
I’ve always had a soft spot for those quiet, cozy East Asian novels that revolve around ordinary places—libraries, cafés, cats, and, of course, convenience stores. They usually follow a familiar rhythm, and that’s part of what makes them so comforting. I picked this one up mostly because of the convenience store setting. I mean, who doesn’t want to get lost in a story about a 24/7 konbini called Tenderness?. But honestly, it didn’t quite live up to what I was hoping for.
While the idea of Tenderness as a community hub was really charming, I didn’t feel like the store itself was as central or as vividly described as I wanted. I was hoping to be completely immersed in its warm lights, aisles of egg sandwiches, and friendly regulars, but the atmosphere just didn’t leap off the page for me.
The characters were fine, but I didn’t feel particularly connected to any of them. They felt a little too surface-level, and I never really got to know them in a way that would make me care deeply about their stories. The plot also didn’t do much to pull me in - it kind of wandered along gently, which isn’t a bad thing, but it left me feeling a bit indifferent by the end.
That said, there is a quiet charm to this book. I didn’t dislike it, actually enjoyed it in that low-key, easy-to-read kind of way. It just didn’t leave a lasting impression. The writing style felt pretty basic at times, but I tried to remind myself that this might be due to translation.
All in all, it’s a sweet little read, perfect for a rainy afternoon when you want something mellow and comforting. Not unforgettable, but not disappointing either. Just… a nice little pause.
My copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While the idea of Tenderness as a community hub was really charming, I didn’t feel like the store itself was as central or as vividly described as I wanted. I was hoping to be completely immersed in its warm lights, aisles of egg sandwiches, and friendly regulars, but the atmosphere just didn’t leap off the page for me.
The characters were fine, but I didn’t feel particularly connected to any of them. They felt a little too surface-level, and I never really got to know them in a way that would make me care deeply about their stories. The plot also didn’t do much to pull me in - it kind of wandered along gently, which isn’t a bad thing, but it left me feeling a bit indifferent by the end.
That said, there is a quiet charm to this book. I didn’t dislike it, actually enjoyed it in that low-key, easy-to-read kind of way. It just didn’t leave a lasting impression. The writing style felt pretty basic at times, but I tried to remind myself that this might be due to translation.
All in all, it’s a sweet little read, perfect for a rainy afternoon when you want something mellow and comforting. Not unforgettable, but not disappointing either. Just… a nice little pause.
My copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 6, 2025
This hit the spot. So cozy, so relaxing. I've been having anxiety lately and this was the perfect balm. It's a great intro into the genre as well.
September 8, 2025
3.5 stars
December 30, 2025
the concept of 282 pages long ad for a made up convenience store
December 27, 2025
Japan has been cranking out cosy reads lately, and I've liked the ones I've read so far - Sweet Bean Paste and Days at the Morisaki Bookshop especially.
This one though?
Cosy and gentle are perhaps too emphatic to describe it. I'd say...dull.
Much like Before The Coffee Gets Cold - which I also didn't like - this is more a collection of short stories than a novel with a coherent plot.
And it's so, so, painfully slow-going. It took me 2 weeks to read 100 pages which for me, is a long time.
The characters are mostly dull, too. There's nothing about them - no zing, no personality, and even the small amount of inner conflict seems trite and contrived. There's a handsome store manager who gives bisexual vibes and everyone fancies him (he's referred to as "Phero-manager") but it's unclear why he has this effect on people, as he merely speaks in platitude. No character in the novel is allowed to express a remotely negative emotion without being mildly reprimanded for it. Clerk complains to his colleague about a cranky old man making fun of him? Clerk is in the wrong. Struggling artist speaks passionately about his passions? He apologises for, I don't know, liking coffee and manga? Who are these people?
The writing style is incredibly simplistic too. I don't know if it's a poor translation, but it felt like the sentences had no life to them, bar the descriptions of food, and the muscular physiques of multiple male characters (I know nobody at my local Aldi who looks like any of these convenience store workers much to my chagrin).
Not for me, unfortunately.
This one though?
Cosy and gentle are perhaps too emphatic to describe it. I'd say...dull.
Much like Before The Coffee Gets Cold - which I also didn't like - this is more a collection of short stories than a novel with a coherent plot.
And it's so, so, painfully slow-going. It took me 2 weeks to read 100 pages which for me, is a long time.
The characters are mostly dull, too. There's nothing about them - no zing, no personality, and even the small amount of inner conflict seems trite and contrived. There's a handsome store manager who gives bisexual vibes and everyone fancies him (he's referred to as "Phero-manager") but it's unclear why he has this effect on people, as he merely speaks in platitude. No character in the novel is allowed to express a remotely negative emotion without being mildly reprimanded for it. Clerk complains to his colleague about a cranky old man making fun of him? Clerk is in the wrong. Struggling artist speaks passionately about his passions? He apologises for, I don't know, liking coffee and manga? Who are these people?
The writing style is incredibly simplistic too. I don't know if it's a poor translation, but it felt like the sentences had no life to them, bar the descriptions of food, and the muscular physiques of multiple male characters (I know nobody at my local Aldi who looks like any of these convenience store workers much to my chagrin).
Not for me, unfortunately.
April 11, 2025
New life goal: be hot enough to have my own fan club like the manager Shiba.
October 31, 2025
very cute! a great lighthearted read
March 17, 2025
A charming little stories of a convenience store by the sea at the seaside town, Mojiko, a perfect cozy konbini called Tenderness. In Tenderness, the store provided you with everything you want from late night snacks, sweet treats, packed lunches, hot coffee and all the daily items to be used for convenience. Situated underneath Golden Villa for the elderly residents, Tenderness was manned by a handsome, strikingly good looking manager, Shiba Mitushiko, the workers, and the variety of customers that flocked to the store either for the charms of the Phero-Manager or the comfort the shop brought with its presence.
In the series of interconnected stories, the place was a community of social, where these characters visited the store for their comfort, seeking the pleasure of the day to day occurences in small treats, each with their own baggage and struggles but Tenderness gave them a spot to relax and feel at home. There is Mitsuri, the clerk at Tenderness whom drawn manga based on Shiba as her muse for her popular online series, a middle aged tutor that wished he fulfillef his dream as a mangaka, an elderly couple starting to live their second life after retirement, Azusa, a girl wanting to break free from an oppressive friendship, to a boy named Kosei thats learning to find love in his life. The stories in here are laidback and maybe seems mundane but there is a certain significance in each of their life, there are some heavy themes discussed of bullying, the fear of ageing, the relationship between husband and wife that maybe in the area of "grey divorce", struggles of fulfilling your dream, a friendship that is forced on you leaving you shackled to the bond, grief and death and so on. With each stories meticulously written to reflect each one characters, there is the heartwarming, comforting and delightful charm to them as certain characters like the Whatever guy or Tsugi played a main role as sort of a Guardian, I will say helping them
The stories are simple but there is consolation and tenderhearted moments to be felt in this. The scrumptious descriptions of foods are so good that it made me hungry reading this while fasting. We all might feel this is yet another slice of life healing book in already saturated market, i cannot deny that but i like the simplicity of the stories that let me be concerned for these people & knowing their struggles & concerns are probably what I can relate to. Like the ocean breeze at Mojiko, the convenience store by the sea stood its ground greeting its customers with tenderness and welcomed you with an open arms for you to find solace in its embrace.
Thank you Definitelybooks for the review copy
In the series of interconnected stories, the place was a community of social, where these characters visited the store for their comfort, seeking the pleasure of the day to day occurences in small treats, each with their own baggage and struggles but Tenderness gave them a spot to relax and feel at home. There is Mitsuri, the clerk at Tenderness whom drawn manga based on Shiba as her muse for her popular online series, a middle aged tutor that wished he fulfillef his dream as a mangaka, an elderly couple starting to live their second life after retirement, Azusa, a girl wanting to break free from an oppressive friendship, to a boy named Kosei thats learning to find love in his life. The stories in here are laidback and maybe seems mundane but there is a certain significance in each of their life, there are some heavy themes discussed of bullying, the fear of ageing, the relationship between husband and wife that maybe in the area of "grey divorce", struggles of fulfilling your dream, a friendship that is forced on you leaving you shackled to the bond, grief and death and so on. With each stories meticulously written to reflect each one characters, there is the heartwarming, comforting and delightful charm to them as certain characters like the Whatever guy or Tsugi played a main role as sort of a Guardian, I will say helping them
The stories are simple but there is consolation and tenderhearted moments to be felt in this. The scrumptious descriptions of foods are so good that it made me hungry reading this while fasting. We all might feel this is yet another slice of life healing book in already saturated market, i cannot deny that but i like the simplicity of the stories that let me be concerned for these people & knowing their struggles & concerns are probably what I can relate to. Like the ocean breeze at Mojiko, the convenience store by the sea stood its ground greeting its customers with tenderness and welcomed you with an open arms for you to find solace in its embrace.
Thank you Definitelybooks for the review copy
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