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名探偵のままでいて #1
La pequeña habitación de los misterios
Las mejores historias son las que podemos compartir.
Como amante de las historias clásicas de crímenes, no es de extrañar que Kaede, una profesora de veintisiete años, se cruce con misterios cotidianos con más frecuencia que la mayoría de las personas. Resolverlos, sin embargo, es otro asunto, y la persona a la que siempre recurre en busca de orientación es su querido abuelo, quien, a pesar de padecer un tipo de demencia, conserva una aguda lucidez mental. Desde asesinatos imposibles en habitaciones cerradas hasta desconcertantes casos de personas desaparecidas, la nieta y el abuelo, cual aprendiz y maestro, forman un equipo que «teje historias» para llegar al fondo de diversos casos. Mientras tanto, una sombra se cierne lentamente sobre Kaede, representando una amenaza más insidiosa...
Como amante de las historias clásicas de crímenes, no es de extrañar que Kaede, una profesora de veintisiete años, se cruce con misterios cotidianos con más frecuencia que la mayoría de las personas. Resolverlos, sin embargo, es otro asunto, y la persona a la que siempre recurre en busca de orientación es su querido abuelo, quien, a pesar de padecer un tipo de demencia, conserva una aguda lucidez mental. Desde asesinatos imposibles en habitaciones cerradas hasta desconcertantes casos de personas desaparecidas, la nieta y el abuelo, cual aprendiz y maestro, forman un equipo que «teje historias» para llegar al fondo de diversos casos. Mientras tanto, una sombra se cierne lentamente sobre Kaede, representando una amenaza más insidiosa...
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2023
252 people are currently reading
8137 people want to read
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April 11, 2026
Happy Publication Day to U.S. readers! March 17, 2026.
This story felt very close to home.
For the last four years of her life, I was responsible for my mother’s care.
She lived in assisted living near our home, beginning in a one-bedroom apartment before downsizing to a studio. Her Parkinson’s disease was initially managed with medication, but a couple of years later, she was diagnosed with Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB).
DLB brought frequent hallucinations, so it was easier to move her to a private home with 24-hour caregivers.
Before the move, my mother worried the “creatures” stealing her belongings would follow her. To comfort and reassure her, I told those “creatures” they were not invited to her new home. My mother watched as I put a hex on them.
And it worked—because my mother believed I had that power.
In her new home she became calmer. But the hallucinations continued, just in a different way.
Turner Classic Movies played all day, and the films transported her into their worlds. Soon the stories depicted became her own life. When I visited, she would happily share memories from a “fabled youth” inspired by whatever movie she had just watched—like the time a boyfriend rode up to her front door on a horse to take her on a date.
Of course, that never happened in suburban San Fernando Valley (Southern California) in the late 1940s or early 1950s. Knowing my grandfather, as I did, most likely, her mode of transportation was a convertible.
But those stories brought her joy, and I wasn’t about to take that joy away.
That’s why Kaede’s relationship with her grandfather in this novel felt so familiar to me.
His dementia is the same as my mother’s—DLB—and the author thoughtfully weaves explanations of the dis-ease throughout the narrative.
At first, Kaede, a primary school teacher, simply humors her grandfather’s stories. But he’s such a skilled storyteller that she soon finds herself drawn into his alternate universe.
“…I believe everything that happens in life is a story.”
This debut novel unfolds through six interlinked mysteries translated from Japanese by Louise Heal Kawai. When small mysteries arise in her Tokyo neighborhood, Kaede shares them with her grandfather. Despite Parkinson’s-like symptoms and dementia, his mind remains remarkably sharp in those sharing moments.
Each mystery strengthens the bond between granddaughter and grandfather. Thus, allowing the relationship between Kaede and her grandfather to form the emotional center of the novel. It is made even more meaningful knowing the author drew from his own experience caring for his father with dementia.
The cases themselves are community-based puzzles that give a thoughtful nod to classic detective fiction—much like Miss Marple solving mysteries from her chair while other characters supply the clues.
The novel starts slowly and some side characters feel lightly sketched. But the story gains momentum in the second half, especially when a mystery affects Kaede personally.
At its heart, though, this is a story about connection—about loving someone whose mind is both failing and brilliant.
For readers who have lived through something similar, there is a quiet truth here: sometimes the greatest act of love is simply stepping into their story.
Fans of cozy mysteries will find this a gentle, heartfelt debut—imperfect but touching.
This story felt very close to home.
For the last four years of her life, I was responsible for my mother’s care.
She lived in assisted living near our home, beginning in a one-bedroom apartment before downsizing to a studio. Her Parkinson’s disease was initially managed with medication, but a couple of years later, she was diagnosed with Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB).
DLB brought frequent hallucinations, so it was easier to move her to a private home with 24-hour caregivers.
Before the move, my mother worried the “creatures” stealing her belongings would follow her. To comfort and reassure her, I told those “creatures” they were not invited to her new home. My mother watched as I put a hex on them.
And it worked—because my mother believed I had that power.
In her new home she became calmer. But the hallucinations continued, just in a different way.
Turner Classic Movies played all day, and the films transported her into their worlds. Soon the stories depicted became her own life. When I visited, she would happily share memories from a “fabled youth” inspired by whatever movie she had just watched—like the time a boyfriend rode up to her front door on a horse to take her on a date.
Of course, that never happened in suburban San Fernando Valley (Southern California) in the late 1940s or early 1950s. Knowing my grandfather, as I did, most likely, her mode of transportation was a convertible.
But those stories brought her joy, and I wasn’t about to take that joy away.
That’s why Kaede’s relationship with her grandfather in this novel felt so familiar to me.
His dementia is the same as my mother’s—DLB—and the author thoughtfully weaves explanations of the dis-ease throughout the narrative.
At first, Kaede, a primary school teacher, simply humors her grandfather’s stories. But he’s such a skilled storyteller that she soon finds herself drawn into his alternate universe.
“…I believe everything that happens in life is a story.”
This debut novel unfolds through six interlinked mysteries translated from Japanese by Louise Heal Kawai. When small mysteries arise in her Tokyo neighborhood, Kaede shares them with her grandfather. Despite Parkinson’s-like symptoms and dementia, his mind remains remarkably sharp in those sharing moments.
Each mystery strengthens the bond between granddaughter and grandfather. Thus, allowing the relationship between Kaede and her grandfather to form the emotional center of the novel. It is made even more meaningful knowing the author drew from his own experience caring for his father with dementia.
The cases themselves are community-based puzzles that give a thoughtful nod to classic detective fiction—much like Miss Marple solving mysteries from her chair while other characters supply the clues.
The novel starts slowly and some side characters feel lightly sketched. But the story gains momentum in the second half, especially when a mystery affects Kaede personally.
At its heart, though, this is a story about connection—about loving someone whose mind is both failing and brilliant.
For readers who have lived through something similar, there is a quiet truth here: sometimes the greatest act of love is simply stepping into their story.
Fans of cozy mysteries will find this a gentle, heartfelt debut—imperfect but touching.
Read
July 19, 2025When the Coffee Gets Cold meets Agatha Christie. Neither age nor a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) can keep Grandfather from solving difficult cases. He’s a gentle, brilliant, and dynamic sleuth you won’t soon forget.
January 6, 2026
A 27-year old solving cold cases and mysteries with her grandfather who has lewy body dementia? This book was a delight. Each section covers a different mystery and the two characters try to piece everything together based off evidence, witness testimonies, maps and diagrams. Kaede's grandfather's dementia actually begins to come in handy when can visualise the mystery in front of him due to the hallucinations he experiences as part of his condition. I didn't know much about lewy body dementia and I feel like this book was great for showcasing an experience with the illness.
If you love seeing how a mystery comes together and retracting steps, with potential motivations, looking at context clues, etc. You'll really enjoy this one.
The narrator on the audiobook is Hanako Footman and she did a brilliant job!
If you love seeing how a mystery comes together and retracting steps, with potential motivations, looking at context clues, etc. You'll really enjoy this one.
The narrator on the audiobook is Hanako Footman and she did a brilliant job!
January 10, 2026
Words cannot describe how much I adored this.
A love letter to mystery novels, fascinating, tridimensional characters, many interconnected mysteries combined with Kaede’s mundane daily life, her fears about her grandpa’s conditions, her fear of remaining alone, the most amazing romance sublot (HAHAHA the love interest says reading non-Japanese books makes no sense cause they will never compare anyway and HE IS CORRECT, FACTS!!!! I fell in love with him right away).
The ending had me so stressed! It was stunning 😭😭😭
A love letter to mystery novels, fascinating, tridimensional characters, many interconnected mysteries combined with Kaede’s mundane daily life, her fears about her grandpa’s conditions, her fear of remaining alone, the most amazing romance sublot (HAHAHA the love interest says reading non-Japanese books makes no sense cause they will never compare anyway and HE IS CORRECT, FACTS!!!! I fell in love with him right away).
The ending had me so stressed! It was stunning 😭😭😭
September 17, 2025
Né titolo, né sottotitolo, e neppure la trama sulla bandella, permettono ai lettori italiani di capire di cosa tratti questo libro. Il titolo originale suona come “Resta un grande detective” (inteso come auspicio), e infatti in molti altri paesi viene tradotto come «I detective della memoria». Di che cosa parla, dunque, questa storia? È un piacevolissimo cozy crime che, attraverso una serie di storie inanellate, ripercorre alcuni degli schemi più ricorrenti nei gialli classici. Figura centrale delle storie è in nonno della protagonista che, nonostante sia affetto da una forma iniziale di demenza a corpi di Lewy, riesce, come un moderno Poirot, a scardinare ogni enigma all’apparenza irrisolvibile.
4 stelle alla storia (premiata dai librai giapponesi come storia migliore dell’anno)
1 stella all’ennesima scelta di marketing che, anziché esaltare le peculiarità di un libro, finisce per soffocarne l’unicità.
4 stelle alla storia (premiata dai librai giapponesi come storia migliore dell’anno)
1 stella all’ennesima scelta di marketing che, anziché esaltare le peculiarità di un libro, finisce per soffocarne l’unicità.
August 3, 2025
Ich hatte leider etwas anderes erwartet. Nach der Inhaltsbeschreibung klingt es, als drehe sich die Geschichte um die Protagonistin, ihren demenzkranken Großvater und Bücher. In Wirklichkeit hilft der Großvater seiner Enkelin durch Genie und Halluzinationen, Kriminalfälle zu lösen.
Dabei wirken die Episoden unglaublich repeptitiv und die Auflösungen klingen anhand der vorhandenen Informationen komplett an den Haaren herbeigezogen. Die Figuren bleiben distanziert. Weder die Beziehung zwischen Kaede und ihrem Großvater noch die beiden potenziellen "Love Interests" konnten mich wirklich berühren.
Es ließ sich schnell lesen, aber begeistert hat es mich leider nicht.
Dabei wirken die Episoden unglaublich repeptitiv und die Auflösungen klingen anhand der vorhandenen Informationen komplett an den Haaren herbeigezogen. Die Figuren bleiben distanziert. Weder die Beziehung zwischen Kaede und ihrem Großvater noch die beiden potenziellen "Love Interests" konnten mich wirklich berühren.
Es ließ sich schnell lesen, aber begeistert hat es mich leider nicht.
April 21, 2026
#retoamamos (feel good)
23/ 2026
LA PEQUEÑA HABITACIÓN DE LOS MISTERIOS
Este es el segundo intento con este tipo de literatura y ha sido aún peor que el primero, así que no lo voy a volver a intentar más allá de un tercer título que compré en su día y me tocará comérmelo con patatas 😅.
No hay nada, pero nada, que me haya gustado de este libro.
La prosa es simplona, básica y sin encanto. Los personajes son arquetipos y aburridos.
La trama y el planteamiento de los hechos es totalmente absurdo. Parece una mala imitación de las novelas clásicas de misterio. Trata de seguir el esquema, pero sin pericia ni nada que contar o aportar.
Mención especial merece ese primer capítulo donde parece que el autor nos haya volcado toda la información de Wikipedia sobre la enfermedad del abuelo.
Tras este capítulo de enciclopedia comienza la historia, sonrojante, donde los personajes se reúnen de forma absurda en un bar para comentar un asesinato y descubrir al asesino solo hablando entre ellos.
Y así hasta el final.
Qué cosa más mala, por favor. Menos mal que era de eBiblio.
23/ 2026
LA PEQUEÑA HABITACIÓN DE LOS MISTERIOS
Este es el segundo intento con este tipo de literatura y ha sido aún peor que el primero, así que no lo voy a volver a intentar más allá de un tercer título que compré en su día y me tocará comérmelo con patatas 😅.
No hay nada, pero nada, que me haya gustado de este libro.
La prosa es simplona, básica y sin encanto. Los personajes son arquetipos y aburridos.
La trama y el planteamiento de los hechos es totalmente absurdo. Parece una mala imitación de las novelas clásicas de misterio. Trata de seguir el esquema, pero sin pericia ni nada que contar o aportar.
Mención especial merece ese primer capítulo donde parece que el autor nos haya volcado toda la información de Wikipedia sobre la enfermedad del abuelo.
Tras este capítulo de enciclopedia comienza la historia, sonrojante, donde los personajes se reúnen de forma absurda en un bar para comentar un asesinato y descubrir al asesino solo hablando entre ellos.
Y así hasta el final.
Qué cosa más mala, por favor. Menos mal que era de eBiblio.
January 21, 2026
This Japanese bestseller reveals a lovely relationship between a granddaughter and her grandfather, who work together to solve mysteries, even though the grandfather has a form of dementia. Heartwarming and absorbing!
August 1, 2025
Ich bin sehr hin und hergerissen. Anfangs fand ich die Geschichte sehr nett und war auch interessiert, allerdings wird das sich ständig wiederholende Format schnell langweilig. Vor allem, weil die Lösungen der Fälle und wie sie gelöst wurden oft sehr weit hergeholt waren. Die zusammenhängende Hintergrundhandlung und die Beziehung zwischen Großvater und Enkelin fand ich dann doch spannender.
Außerdem glaube ich, dass es sich hier wirklich um einen Fall handelt, in dem der Inhalt teilweise an der Übersetzung scheitert. Es wird auf sehr viele Wortspiele verwiesen, die nur im Japanischen funktionieren und die mehr schlecht als recht übersetzt und erklärt werden.
Es war trotzdem unterhaltsam anzuhören, aber ich würde empfehlen kleinere Pausen zwischen den einzelnen Fällen zu machen.
Außerdem glaube ich, dass es sich hier wirklich um einen Fall handelt, in dem der Inhalt teilweise an der Übersetzung scheitert. Es wird auf sehr viele Wortspiele verwiesen, die nur im Japanischen funktionieren und die mehr schlecht als recht übersetzt und erklärt werden.
Es war trotzdem unterhaltsam anzuhören, aber ich würde empfehlen kleinere Pausen zwischen den einzelnen Fällen zu machen.
August 21, 2025
bardzo przyjemna i po prostu fajna. Taka otulająca wersja Dziwnych obrazków 😅 Mamy różne zagadki i ich analizę. Mój jedyny zarzut jest taki, że genialny dziadek jest genialny i tyle, wystarczy mu przedstawić historię i od razu zna rozwiązanie. Więc nie dostaniecie tu prawdziwego śledztwa, ale i tak ciekawie czytało się jego przemyślane rozwiązania bazujące na detalach 😁
6/10, lekka, całkiem wciągająca i przyjemna!
6/10, lekka, całkiem wciągająca i przyjemna!
November 19, 2025
Przyjemne.
March 14, 2026
Kaede es una joven profesora de primaria cuya vida gira en torno a su abuelo. Antiguo director de colegio, ávido lector (costumbre que Kaede ha heredado), su aguda inteligencia y perspicacia le son de gran ayuda para resolver los pequeños misterios del día a día. Aquejado de la enfermedad de los cuerpos de Lewy, un trastorno neurodegenerativo progresivo, cada vez es menor el tiempo de lucidez que puede dedicar a su pasatiempo favorito, pero aun puede resolver los misterios que se le presentan.
Cuando compré este libro, y sobre todo, cuando empecé a leerlo, me esperaba un libro de resolución de misterios amable y entretenido. Pero en realidad no es solo eso. El autor describe bastante bien la enfermedad que aqueja al anciano y como afecta a su relación con su entorno, sobre todo con la familia.
A pesar de que reconozco el mérito de saber transmitir los conocimientos del autor sobre la enfermedad y la relación abuelo-nieta, no he podido conectar con la historia. Sigo insistiendo en leer libros de autores japoneses, y generalmente me pasa lo mismo: no conecto. Esto parece una relación imposible, pero no me rindo.
Cuando compré este libro, y sobre todo, cuando empecé a leerlo, me esperaba un libro de resolución de misterios amable y entretenido. Pero en realidad no es solo eso. El autor describe bastante bien la enfermedad que aqueja al anciano y como afecta a su relación con su entorno, sobre todo con la familia.
A pesar de que reconozco el mérito de saber transmitir los conocimientos del autor sobre la enfermedad y la relación abuelo-nieta, no he podido conectar con la historia. Sigo insistiendo en leer libros de autores japoneses, y generalmente me pasa lo mismo: no conecto. Esto parece una relación imposible, pero no me rindo.
March 29, 2026
Una chufa
January 9, 2026
Dieses Buch hat sich angefühlt, wie eine japan Reise, mit naruto x dem Spiel Midnight Ramen Flair,
und ein bisschen Detektiv Literatur. es war auf eine besondere Weise unterhaltsam, so wie auch spannend, wobei vorallem das Thema der Demenz für mich sehr interessant war.
Man kann also sagen es ist eine erfrischende Lektüre gewesen, mit ein paar wichtigen Themen und Worten die von einer großen und kleinen Bedeutung sind! Und trotz dieser großen Worte hat das Buch dennoch ein paar kleine aber feine Schwächen, die sich durch das Buch ziehen, aber mich wenn ich nun einmal drin war auch nicht emens gestört haben weil alles andere überwiegt hat. 😌
Also alles in allen eine schöne Geschichte zum eben mal kurz abtauchen. 🏮
und ein bisschen Detektiv Literatur. es war auf eine besondere Weise unterhaltsam, so wie auch spannend, wobei vorallem das Thema der Demenz für mich sehr interessant war.
Man kann also sagen es ist eine erfrischende Lektüre gewesen, mit ein paar wichtigen Themen und Worten die von einer großen und kleinen Bedeutung sind! Und trotz dieser großen Worte hat das Buch dennoch ein paar kleine aber feine Schwächen, die sich durch das Buch ziehen, aber mich wenn ich nun einmal drin war auch nicht emens gestört haben weil alles andere überwiegt hat. 😌
Also alles in allen eine schöne Geschichte zum eben mal kurz abtauchen. 🏮
February 20, 2026
przyjemne
July 30, 2024
4.5-5
Je suis tombée par hasard sur ce livre en librairie : il a attiré mon attention par sa couverture et son titre d'abord, puis par l'évocation, dans le synopsis, de ce grand-père sherlockholmesque et de sa petite-fille institutrice.
J'ai passé un très bon moment, sans prise de tête. Je ne m'attendais pas forcément à un roman à suspense insoutenable, notamment parce que ces mystères sont ceux du quotidien de Kaede qui vient voir son grand-père pour les comprendre, à défaut de toujours les résoudre. J'ai aimé la dernière partie aussi, plus haletante, ainsi que la fin très ouverte, qui pourrait s'avérer frustrante pour d'autres lecteurs.
J'ai aussi trouvé très touchante la relation entre la jeune femme et son grand-père : encore une fois, ce n'était pas l'amour "amoureux" qui était le plus mis en avant et j'ai beaucoup apprécié. Cela ne veut pas dire que Kaede n'a pas de prétendants, cela dit, et j'ai également aimé la pudeur et le développement de ces relations annexes. L'auteur ne nous donne jamais vraiment l'avis de la jeune femme sur ces hommes,
Enfin, j'ai apprécié les nombreuses références à la littérature policière, qu'elle soit anglophone ou japonaise ! J'ai aimé qu'elle soit mise à l'honneur et cela m'a donné envie de m'y remettre.
Je lirai avec plaisir les prochains livres de l'auteur !
Je suis tombée par hasard sur ce livre en librairie : il a attiré mon attention par sa couverture et son titre d'abord, puis par l'évocation, dans le synopsis, de ce grand-père sherlockholmesque et de sa petite-fille institutrice.
J'ai passé un très bon moment, sans prise de tête. Je ne m'attendais pas forcément à un roman à suspense insoutenable, notamment parce que ces mystères sont ceux du quotidien de Kaede qui vient voir son grand-père pour les comprendre, à défaut de toujours les résoudre. J'ai aimé la dernière partie aussi, plus haletante, ainsi que la fin très ouverte, qui pourrait s'avérer frustrante pour d'autres lecteurs.
J'ai aussi trouvé très touchante la relation entre la jeune femme et son grand-père : encore une fois, ce n'était pas l'amour "amoureux" qui était le plus mis en avant et j'ai beaucoup apprécié. Cela ne veut pas dire que Kaede n'a pas de prétendants, cela dit, et j'ai également aimé la pudeur et le développement de ces relations annexes. L'auteur ne nous donne jamais vraiment l'avis de la jeune femme sur ces hommes,
Enfin, j'ai apprécié les nombreuses références à la littérature policière, qu'elle soit anglophone ou japonaise ! J'ai aimé qu'elle soit mise à l'honneur et cela m'a donné envie de m'y remettre.
Je lirai avec plaisir les prochains livres de l'auteur !
February 23, 2026
I saw this one in my local Waterstones last year and was instantly drawn to it because of how beautiful the cover is….
Unfortunately I was left somewhat disappointed with this book, it was not what I expected at all. I did enjoy though, but not as much as I was hoping to.
I feel like the only real chapters that I liked or did anything of the story were 1, 4 and 5. If the book was just those 3 chapters but more stretched out, I think this would of been a lot better for me. I don’t think the other chapters actually went anywhere and were a little boring. This could be a me problem but I don’t think we got enough time with Grandfather. His diagnosis was absolutely heartbreaking but very very well written though.
Maybe I didn’t full understand this book and I was expecting more of an actual detective story (like the last chapter really) and not have the other mystery’s and kind of stories or tales than Grandfather and Kaede tell figuring out what happened. The last chapter saved it though, that was still a little slow but really good.
Book Title: My Grandfather, the Master Detective
Author: Masateru Konishi
Pages: 343
Rating: 🐅🐅.5
Started: 4th January
Finished: 7th January
Unfortunately I was left somewhat disappointed with this book, it was not what I expected at all. I did enjoy though, but not as much as I was hoping to.
I feel like the only real chapters that I liked or did anything of the story were 1, 4 and 5. If the book was just those 3 chapters but more stretched out, I think this would of been a lot better for me. I don’t think the other chapters actually went anywhere and were a little boring. This could be a me problem but I don’t think we got enough time with Grandfather. His diagnosis was absolutely heartbreaking but very very well written though.
Maybe I didn’t full understand this book and I was expecting more of an actual detective story (like the last chapter really) and not have the other mystery’s and kind of stories or tales than Grandfather and Kaede tell figuring out what happened. The last chapter saved it though, that was still a little slow but really good.
Book Title: My Grandfather, the Master Detective
Author: Masateru Konishi
Pages: 343
Rating: 🐅🐅.5
Started: 4th January
Finished: 7th January
April 15, 2026
Slice-of-life meets mystery crime in a warm familial backdrop that centered on a bond in between a young woman and her grandfather who lives with Lewy Body Dementia. I followed Kaede, a school teacher who loves classic detective fiction and often encountering strange and puzzling incidents that intrigued her to consult her grandfather; a retired school principal and a former member of a university mystery club for his insight in unfolding the mystery behind those incidents.
From a locked-room murder at an izakaya to a missing person case, a perplexed incident of an extra person appearing mysteriously and an intense stabbing case involving Kaede’s close friend, the premise gets tangled in episodic style; both thrilling and empathetic in tone with an easy to digest storytelling. It fascinates me everytime on how Kaede’s grandfather could weave his tale of hypotheses despite not being present at the scene, giving all the possible deductions on how the crime or those incidents might occurred while just leisurely puffing his cigarette.
Loved the details on the dementia part— so informatively explored and quite heartwarming too to see how the dynamic and relationship in between Kaede and her grandfather developed throughout his symptoms. Admirable friendship of Kaede with Shiki and Iwata— I liked their interactions a lot and though it gets bit sad at the end of how the realisation comes for grandfather, I somehow relieved that both Shiki and Iwata were there.
A cozy comforting overall despite its touch of mystery and crime— can be a light detective themed read if you’re into an investigation genre also a reflective one if you’re into a slice-of-life or healing premise.
**saw that it has a sequel, bit anticipating because of that last scene of Kaede and her grandfather 🙌🏻
(thank you Pansing Distribution for the gifted review copy!)
From a locked-room murder at an izakaya to a missing person case, a perplexed incident of an extra person appearing mysteriously and an intense stabbing case involving Kaede’s close friend, the premise gets tangled in episodic style; both thrilling and empathetic in tone with an easy to digest storytelling. It fascinates me everytime on how Kaede’s grandfather could weave his tale of hypotheses despite not being present at the scene, giving all the possible deductions on how the crime or those incidents might occurred while just leisurely puffing his cigarette.
Loved the details on the dementia part— so informatively explored and quite heartwarming too to see how the dynamic and relationship in between Kaede and her grandfather developed throughout his symptoms. Admirable friendship of Kaede with Shiki and Iwata— I liked their interactions a lot and though it gets bit sad at the end of how the realisation comes for grandfather, I somehow relieved that both Shiki and Iwata were there.
A cozy comforting overall despite its touch of mystery and crime— can be a light detective themed read if you’re into an investigation genre also a reflective one if you’re into a slice-of-life or healing premise.
**saw that it has a sequel, bit anticipating because of that last scene of Kaede and her grandfather 🙌🏻
(thank you Pansing Distribution for the gifted review copy!)
January 8, 2026
Ich bin da ziemlich unbefangen ran gegangen. Eine Enkelin besucht ihren Großvater. Aber dann geht es los: Detektivgeschichten, mit Logik zu lösen, wie in den großen Klassikern, welche auch erwähnt. Tragische Familiengeschichte. Freundschaft. Liebe. Alles drin und alles erzählt in einem ruhigen, entspannten Tempo. Sehr schön zu lesen, berührend, japanisch. Wie man heraus lesen kann: Das Buch hat mich berührt und beschäftigt. Diesen Großvater vergesse ich nicht mehr.
March 7, 2026
1000 stars. I’m obsessed with this book. I was so captivated and held in place by this book and I didn’t want it to end. I love these characters SO much and oh my gosh the grandpa is the most adorable ever. Smart, sassy, savvy and I just wanted to squeeze him. The mysteries in this book were creative and the way they were picked apart and solved - chefs kiss. The story is emotional and poignant and lovely. The writing was gorgeous and I want to read everything this author writes!
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was so cozy and soothing and emotional and utter perfection .
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC and ALC, my thoughts and review are my own.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was so cozy and soothing and emotional and utter perfection .
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC and ALC, my thoughts and review are my own.
May 4, 2026
Dal titolo non mi aspettavo un mix di gialli da risolvere tramite una chiacchierate tra nonno e nipote.
Una lettura piacevole
Una lettura piacevole
September 18, 2025
Un libro molto bello dolce e introspettivo, che ci ricorda che, anche quando le persone che amiamo non ci sono piú, restano impresse nel nostro cuore e nei ricordi.
Lo sa bene la giovane protagonista che ogni giorno racconta al nonno delle storie, e con una tazza di te caldo in mano cerca di farsi spazio nella sua memoria.
Lo sa bene la giovane protagonista che ogni giorno racconta al nonno delle storie, e con una tazza di te caldo in mano cerca di farsi spazio nella sua memoria.
April 26, 2026
If you've been following me for a while you'll know I love translated Japanese fiction & solving a good puzzle, so I am very grateful to Pan Macmillan Australia for gifting me my copy 💌
My favourite part of this story was definitely the beautiful depiction of the important and beautiful bond between a grandfather & granddaughter 🥹❤️🩹 It was so special to see their loving relationship, and I thought the portrayal of the grief of seeing a loved one go through health issues & decline, through the representation of Lewy Body Dementia, was phenomenal. Massive shout out to all the very informative facts & statistics about Dementia weaved into the narrative 👏🏽
Overall, I found this to be a charming & cosy mystery novel, that I honestly struggled to put down at times! I loved that each mystery was vastly different and how commentary of common tropes & references to classic authors of the genre was embedded throughout. I had so much fun trying to solve each murder mystery, and very much appreciated the inclusion of visual diagrams/floor plans 🔎
If you're looking for a quaint read with heartfelt characters & some mystery, you definitely should check out this 4⭐️ read! I am hoping that there are future books added to this series as I am desperate to know what happens next 🤞🏽
My favourite part of this story was definitely the beautiful depiction of the important and beautiful bond between a grandfather & granddaughter 🥹❤️🩹 It was so special to see their loving relationship, and I thought the portrayal of the grief of seeing a loved one go through health issues & decline, through the representation of Lewy Body Dementia, was phenomenal. Massive shout out to all the very informative facts & statistics about Dementia weaved into the narrative 👏🏽
Overall, I found this to be a charming & cosy mystery novel, that I honestly struggled to put down at times! I loved that each mystery was vastly different and how commentary of common tropes & references to classic authors of the genre was embedded throughout. I had so much fun trying to solve each murder mystery, and very much appreciated the inclusion of visual diagrams/floor plans 🔎
If you're looking for a quaint read with heartfelt characters & some mystery, you definitely should check out this 4⭐️ read! I am hoping that there are future books added to this series as I am desperate to know what happens next 🤞🏽
September 30, 2025
3.5 🌟🌟🌟
No sé si lo catalogaría como libro de misterio pero ha sido una lectura divertida y ligerita expuesto de una manera que no había leído antes. Siempre puedo confiar en mis autores japoneses para que esto pase. Aún así en los ‘acertijos’ de mitad del libro las cavilaciones me parecieron poco fundamentadas, tipo que se estaba liando el rizo con una idea y era así porque el abuelo superdotado lo decía. Creo que lo hubiera disfrutado más si conociera sobre los libros de misterio clásicos, pero aún así muchas referencias estaban explicadas en buena medida para los que no sabemos ni papa y para los que sí no se aburran. Y eso es todo.
No sé si lo catalogaría como libro de misterio pero ha sido una lectura divertida y ligerita expuesto de una manera que no había leído antes. Siempre puedo confiar en mis autores japoneses para que esto pase. Aún así en los ‘acertijos’ de mitad del libro las cavilaciones me parecieron poco fundamentadas, tipo que se estaba liando el rizo con una idea y era así porque el abuelo superdotado lo decía. Creo que lo hubiera disfrutado más si conociera sobre los libros de misterio clásicos, pero aún así muchas referencias estaban explicadas en buena medida para los que no sabemos ni papa y para los que sí no se aburran. Y eso es todo.
July 11, 2025
J’ai énormément aimé ce roman ! C’est sincèrement l’une de mes meilleures lectures, et je ne m’y attendais pas !
Au début, j’ai cru que je n’allais pas apprécier cette lecture, mais dès la deuxième partie du roman, je suis immédiatement rentré dedans.
Je conseille ce roman à tous ceux qui aiment les tranches de vie et les polars. C’est un mélange des deux genres.
Au début, j’ai cru que je n’allais pas apprécier cette lecture, mais dès la deuxième partie du roman, je suis immédiatement rentré dedans.
Je conseille ce roman à tous ceux qui aiment les tranches de vie et les polars. C’est un mélange des deux genres.
May 2, 2026
❝Kenapa orang yang disebut detektif, baik dulu maupun sekarang, selalu saja menunda-nunda untuk mengutarakan kesimpulan mereka?❞
Gimana kalau seorang lansia yang bahkan nggak bisa membedakan antara kenyataan dan halusinasi, justru jadi yang paling mahir memecahkan berbagai kisah misteri?
Ini bukan pertama kalinya aku baca novel dengan genre CTM (Crime-Thriller-Mystery) dengan tokoh yang bukanlah seorang detektif swasta atau anggota kepolisian, hanya saja baru kali ini aku nemuin yang tokohnya nggak mengunjungi lokasi kejadian, nggak mewawancarai saksi, tapi tetap bisa membingkai rentetan peristiwa dan nemuin "pelaku" sebenarnya.
Kaede rutin mengunjungi kakeknya—Kakek Himonya—yang saat ini mengidap Lewy Body Dementia untuk memastikan kondisi sang kakek dan berbagi kisah misteri yang didapati dalam kesehariannya. Kaede yang tumbuh sebagai maniak cerita misteri karena didikan Kakek Himonya, selalu yakin bahwa kakeknya itu akan punya jawaban untuk setiap kasus yang diceritakannya.
Menarik sekali mengetahui fakta bahwa Kakekku Detektif Jagoan yang meraih penghargaan utama Kono Mystery ga Sugoi! ke-21 ini awalnya berjudul Cerita di Balik Asap. Sebab, kita dapat melihat deduksi tepat sasaran yang disusun Kakek Himonya setelah menyalakan rokoknya dan sosok berbeda yang kembali muncul tepat ketika asapnya menghilang.
Dari mulai kasus pembunuhan, orang hilang yang mustahil, sampai penguntit menyeramkan. Memang merupakan misteri ringan dan nggak butuh waktu berlarut untuk menyelesaikannya, tapi tetap terasa menegangkan ketika Kakek berusaha "bermain-main" sehingga alur cerita misterinya berubah di pertengahan cerita.
Selama ini aku tahunya demensia hanya meliputi penurunan daya ingat (yang ternyata adalah Demensia Alzheimer), tetapi Masateru Konishi lewat buku ini memberitahu kita tiga tipe demensia. Lewy Body Dementia yang diderita Kakek Himonya memungkinkan dirinya mengalami halusinasi pengelihatan. Apalagi, waktu aku tidak menyadari detail kecil yang ternyata adalah bagian dari halusinasi kakek, menegaskan bahwa walau dia begitu piawai memecahkan teka-teki yang ada, kita nggak dapat mengesampingkan fakta bahwa penyakitnya beneran ada di dalam sana 🥲💔
Kita belajar dari Kaede gimana merawat penderita LBD, di satu sisi juga merasakan rapuhnya dia ketika melihat kondisi kesehatan kakeknya perlahan menurun. Selain ikatan Kaede dengan Kakek Himonya yang hangat dan menyentuh hati, aku juga suka sekali dengan love interest-nya! Lucu-lucu banget! Iya aku pakai term "lucu-lucu" soalnya yang naksir Kaede ada dua orang!
Go grab this book kalau kalian senang ikut terlibat memecahkan kasus misteri ringan! Mungkin, nggak semua dari kita masih punya kakek di dunia ini, maka interaksi Kadae dan Kakek Himonya bisa mengobati sedikit kerinduan; ketika Kadae menghidupkan dunia kakeknya dengan memecahkan cerita misteri bersama, dan Kakek Himonya yang melampaui segala keterbatasannya demi berupaya melindungi cucu kesayangannya.
November 24, 2025
My Grandfather, the Master Detective
Author : Masateru Konishi
Translator : Louise Heal Kawai
Now this book's a total charmer!
27 year-old primary school teacher Kaede and her (former school principal) grandfather Himonya-san are not your typical tandem duo for "weaving tales" in order to solve classic crime stories and mysteries.
The reason for this is because, Himonya-san has been diagnosed with Dementia, particularly DLB (Dementia with Lewy Bodies), which give off a distinctive symptom, unique to this variation of dementia, which is the visual hallucinations.
Despite his illness, his keen sharpness and judgment are retained, which he, together with Kaede, take advantage of to get to the bottom of unsolved mysteries. Being once a member of the Waseda Mystery Club in Tokyo, his experience and intelligence, makes him one of the master detectives, perfect to help solve the mystery murders, riddles and puzzles that Kaede stumbled upon.
This six-chapter book is filled with the different types of mystery stories Kaede encounters in her everyday life; from a classic locked-room murder mystery conveniently supplemented with vividly drawn illustrations and diagrams of the crime scene, to that unexpected creepy stalker plot twist one never expected.
Firstly, the fluid writing style and medium-to-fast-paced flow made it easy for me to "soak in and immerse" myself in the story. Definitely unique and cleverly constructed that it took my whole attention and I could not put the book down.
Secondly, I am astonished as to how well-researched this book is in terms of DLB as a whole. As a healthcare worker myself, I learned and got to know more information about it!
Thirdly, this is not the usual cozy mystery combo novel one would expect; yet heartwarming in a sense, due to Kaeda's and her grandfather's relationship.
I felt Kaede's longing and grief over his condition, but then again, she shows to everyone just how proud she is of him. This to me clearly shows her love, strong family bond and relationship, as well as resilience and solidarity, as someone who has a family member suffering such condition. Such poignant and pleasant sentimental moments made me think about how hard it is to have someone dear to you so close, yet so far.
Lastly, I just love how low-key and a tad personal the author is raising awareness of this type of dementia; health education, yet not didactic at all!
All in all, this is a definite must-read for those who like a good combo of mystery riddles and puzzles plus heartwarming stories with a love-triangle twist!
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S. If anyone wants to follow my book reviews I am on Instagram & Goodreads (bookwormdenz), as well as Threads (denz.kaye). Let me know so we can connect! 📚
Author : Masateru Konishi
Translator : Louise Heal Kawai
Now this book's a total charmer!
27 year-old primary school teacher Kaede and her (former school principal) grandfather Himonya-san are not your typical tandem duo for "weaving tales" in order to solve classic crime stories and mysteries.
The reason for this is because, Himonya-san has been diagnosed with Dementia, particularly DLB (Dementia with Lewy Bodies), which give off a distinctive symptom, unique to this variation of dementia, which is the visual hallucinations.
Despite his illness, his keen sharpness and judgment are retained, which he, together with Kaede, take advantage of to get to the bottom of unsolved mysteries. Being once a member of the Waseda Mystery Club in Tokyo, his experience and intelligence, makes him one of the master detectives, perfect to help solve the mystery murders, riddles and puzzles that Kaede stumbled upon.
This six-chapter book is filled with the different types of mystery stories Kaede encounters in her everyday life; from a classic locked-room murder mystery conveniently supplemented with vividly drawn illustrations and diagrams of the crime scene, to that unexpected creepy stalker plot twist one never expected.
Firstly, the fluid writing style and medium-to-fast-paced flow made it easy for me to "soak in and immerse" myself in the story. Definitely unique and cleverly constructed that it took my whole attention and I could not put the book down.
Secondly, I am astonished as to how well-researched this book is in terms of DLB as a whole. As a healthcare worker myself, I learned and got to know more information about it!
Thirdly, this is not the usual cozy mystery combo novel one would expect; yet heartwarming in a sense, due to Kaeda's and her grandfather's relationship.
I felt Kaede's longing and grief over his condition, but then again, she shows to everyone just how proud she is of him. This to me clearly shows her love, strong family bond and relationship, as well as resilience and solidarity, as someone who has a family member suffering such condition. Such poignant and pleasant sentimental moments made me think about how hard it is to have someone dear to you so close, yet so far.
Lastly, I just love how low-key and a tad personal the author is raising awareness of this type of dementia; health education, yet not didactic at all!
All in all, this is a definite must-read for those who like a good combo of mystery riddles and puzzles plus heartwarming stories with a love-triangle twist!
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S. If anyone wants to follow my book reviews I am on Instagram & Goodreads (bookwormdenz), as well as Threads (denz.kaye). Let me know so we can connect! 📚
April 29, 2026
A review of this one caught my imagination. I like translations of Japanese novels and I like books that are different. This ticks both boxes.
The characters are all simply drawn but there was no problem visualising them. The situations/actions in the book were also well described and ably assisted by a few clear sketches to ensure we had all the information an armchair sleuth could need.
I have read other stories of old men remembering mysteries or old adventures but this one is different.
A granddaughter visiting her elderly relative who is suffering from Lewy Body Dementia. The love they have for each other is very obvious. His mind is still alert although he has problems with hallucinations. His method of solving mysteries is to make stories out of them and test the stories for feasibility.
The book is about his daughter bringing him mysteries to solve to help keep his mind active, while at the same time a background of the main characters is building up for a real problem which provides an exciting climax and brings everything together.
With its many references to earlier literary mysteries and their authors, I really enjoyed this and hope to see more from this new author.
28th April 2026
The characters are all simply drawn but there was no problem visualising them. The situations/actions in the book were also well described and ably assisted by a few clear sketches to ensure we had all the information an armchair sleuth could need.
I have read other stories of old men remembering mysteries or old adventures but this one is different.
A granddaughter visiting her elderly relative who is suffering from Lewy Body Dementia. The love they have for each other is very obvious. His mind is still alert although he has problems with hallucinations. His method of solving mysteries is to make stories out of them and test the stories for feasibility.
The book is about his daughter bringing him mysteries to solve to help keep his mind active, while at the same time a background of the main characters is building up for a real problem which provides an exciting climax and brings everything together.
With its many references to earlier literary mysteries and their authors, I really enjoyed this and hope to see more from this new author.
28th April 2026
September 5, 2025
Die Erzählweise dieses Buches ist bemerkenswert und ich habe alle eingebauten Rätsel und Geschichten innerhalb der Geschichte geliebt! Ein liebevolles Buch über Literatur und die Magie, die darin liegt, Geschichten zu erzählen.
Neben den ganzen kleineren Geschichten gibt es einen weiteren spannenden Handlungsstrang, sodass es nicht langweilig wird. Ich habe bei jedem neuen Hinweis mitgerätselt und war gespannt auf die Ideen unserer beiden Protagonisten Kaede und ihrem Großvater.
Die Beziehung zwischen den beiden ist sehr schön dargestellt und hat mein Herz erwärmt. Im Verhältnis von Kaede zu anderen Nebencharakteren hätte ich mir allerdings ein bisschen mehr Tiefe gewünscht.
Zudem habe ich viel über das Thema Demenz, genauer gesagt über „DLB“ (Dementia with Lewy Bodies – Demenz mit Lewy-Körpern), gelernt. Die Autorin hat alles einfach, verständlich und kompetent erklärt.
Ich konnte der Hörbuchsprecherin Charlotte Puder sehr gut zuhören und sie hat den einzelnen Personen durch unterschiedliche Sprechweisen viel Charakter verliehen.
3.75*
Vielen Dank an „Argon“ für die Bereitstellung des Rezensionsexemplars über NetGalley. Diese Rezension ist meine freie Meinung in eigenen Worten.
Neben den ganzen kleineren Geschichten gibt es einen weiteren spannenden Handlungsstrang, sodass es nicht langweilig wird. Ich habe bei jedem neuen Hinweis mitgerätselt und war gespannt auf die Ideen unserer beiden Protagonisten Kaede und ihrem Großvater.
Die Beziehung zwischen den beiden ist sehr schön dargestellt und hat mein Herz erwärmt. Im Verhältnis von Kaede zu anderen Nebencharakteren hätte ich mir allerdings ein bisschen mehr Tiefe gewünscht.
Zudem habe ich viel über das Thema Demenz, genauer gesagt über „DLB“ (Dementia with Lewy Bodies – Demenz mit Lewy-Körpern), gelernt. Die Autorin hat alles einfach, verständlich und kompetent erklärt.
Ich konnte der Hörbuchsprecherin Charlotte Puder sehr gut zuhören und sie hat den einzelnen Personen durch unterschiedliche Sprechweisen viel Charakter verliehen.
3.75*
Vielen Dank an „Argon“ für die Bereitstellung des Rezensionsexemplars über NetGalley. Diese Rezension ist meine freie Meinung in eigenen Worten.
August 24, 2025
Ich habe das Buch bei einer Leserunde gewonnen, dafür bedanke ich mich.
Es ist mein zweiter Roman von einem japanischen Autor. Es war etwas besser als gedacht, aber hatte auch keine hohen Erwartungen.
Der klapptext spricht mich sehr an und wurde direkt auf den ersten Seiten schon enttäuscht, da es wenig damit zu tun hatte.
Der Autor verführt den Zähler in rätselhaften Elementen. Ich persönlich fand es stellenweise sehr bizarr, könnte mir aber vorstellen, dass Krimifans sowas mögen. Für mich war es eher ok.
Die Sprache ist einfach gehalten, Emotionen und Sympathien entwickeln sich nur sehr langsam.
Die Demenz find ich gut beschrieben und auch die Halluzinationen.
Die Bibliothek spielt jedoch nur eine Nebenrolle.stellenweise spielen Bücher eine Rolle, aber im allgemeinen sind sie nur Nebensache.
Ich empfehle das Buch jedem weiter, der japanische Literatur mag.
Es ist mein zweiter Roman von einem japanischen Autor. Es war etwas besser als gedacht, aber hatte auch keine hohen Erwartungen.
Der klapptext spricht mich sehr an und wurde direkt auf den ersten Seiten schon enttäuscht, da es wenig damit zu tun hatte.
Der Autor verführt den Zähler in rätselhaften Elementen. Ich persönlich fand es stellenweise sehr bizarr, könnte mir aber vorstellen, dass Krimifans sowas mögen. Für mich war es eher ok.
Die Sprache ist einfach gehalten, Emotionen und Sympathien entwickeln sich nur sehr langsam.
Die Demenz find ich gut beschrieben und auch die Halluzinationen.
Die Bibliothek spielt jedoch nur eine Nebenrolle.stellenweise spielen Bücher eine Rolle, aber im allgemeinen sind sie nur Nebensache.
Ich empfehle das Buch jedem weiter, der japanische Literatur mag.
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