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Every Bookshop Needs a Cat
Curl up with a good cat…
Amane Morikawa arrives at the bookshop she’s inherited from her grandfather in Onomichi, only to find a dusty space with empty bookshelves – and a group of characterful cats who’ve made it their home.
Comforted by her new feline friends, Amane begins to connect with the people around her. A clockmaker who tends to the cats. A photographer. A record shop owner. Each meeting drawing her closer to a new purpose: reopening the bookshop.
But the shop needs more than repairs … Can the cats, mysterious guardians of the bookshop, lead Amane to the missing piece that will bring it back to life?
Full of charm and creature comforts, this healing tale from Japanese bestseller Takuya Asakura shows that every reader – and every bookshop – really does need a good cat.
The perfect comfort read for those who loved We’ll Prescribe you a Cat and The Cat Who Saved Books.
Amane Morikawa arrives at the bookshop she’s inherited from her grandfather in Onomichi, only to find a dusty space with empty bookshelves – and a group of characterful cats who’ve made it their home.
Comforted by her new feline friends, Amane begins to connect with the people around her. A clockmaker who tends to the cats. A photographer. A record shop owner. Each meeting drawing her closer to a new purpose: reopening the bookshop.
But the shop needs more than repairs … Can the cats, mysterious guardians of the bookshop, lead Amane to the missing piece that will bring it back to life?
Full of charm and creature comforts, this healing tale from Japanese bestseller Takuya Asakura shows that every reader – and every bookshop – really does need a good cat.
The perfect comfort read for those who loved We’ll Prescribe you a Cat and The Cat Who Saved Books.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2026
About the author
Takuya Asakura
20 books177 followersBorn in Sapporo in 1966, Takuya Asakura graduated from the University of Tokyo. He won the first 'This Mystery is Amazing!' Grand Prize in 2002 for Yokkakan no Kiseki (The Miracle of Four Days), which was subsequently made into a film and sold over 1.3 million copies.
Takuya is also a translator and translated Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library from English into Japanese.
Takuya is also a translator and translated Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library from English into Japanese.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 31, 2026
"The seasons are indifferent to my inability to move forward. They just flow on, keeping the same unbroken rhythm. Someone like me... someone who has to cling on to them just to keep up... how am I supposed to live?"
Having gone out of business, Amane was forced to leave the company of her dream of putting herself in the publishing world. Fortunately, she happens to inherit a bookshop from her grandfather in Onomichi.
Though the moment she moves in, she is greeted by not only one, or two, but a bunch of cats inhabiting the unused space. Instead of steering clear, Amane learns to live alongside them as she makes a thorough plan to revive the shop. There's a saying that you absolutely needs at least one cat, especially if you are running a bookshop business.
The opening of the book is narrated by a cat, which surprised me greatly. I was uncertain whether I could proceed or not, thinking the entire book must be consistently directed by a cat. Thankfully it is not, for soon we get to meet Amane as she tries to find a new direction in her life.
To be frank, some parts were confusing as I was reading them. The formatting also isn't one I fancy, but all the same, I grow fond of Amane and the cats she looks after. I think it's a good pick if you are feeling quite lost in life at the moment, you'd be wishing you had some safety net to fall back on just like what Amane got from her grandfather, despite being unfamiliar to the figure all her life.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange of honest review!
September 17, 2026
Ahh, what can I say? I absolutely loved this book. I fell so in love with the setting that it’s now on my list of places to visit in Japan.
It’s set in Onomichi, a hilly, nostalgic port city in Hiroshima. It’s also famous as a hillside cat town, which kind of explains why a bookshop there would be filled with feline friends. The descriptions and places mentioned had me YouTubing vlogs of people who have been there, and I fell in love with the city even more.
The story follows Amane Morikawa, who inherits her grandfather’s bookshop in Onomichi. We follow her journey as she reconnects with people who knew her grandfather and with her old friends, as well as her journey publishing a hidden manuscript by a writer from the city.
I love how the author weaves in references to books, old Japanese writers and poets. One of them is Naoya Shiga, a renowned novelist who lived in Onomichi from 1912 to 1914 and drew inspiration from it for his work A Dark Night’s Passing. He even has a monument dedicated to him in the city.
Another reason to visit is the Onomichi Literature Path - a scenic 1-kilometer walking trail featuring 25 natural stones engraved with literary quotes from famous authors.
I could really relate to Amane’s passion for working with books, and that made me love this novel even more. The cats are equally charming. There’s a brown tabby called Halloween Jack, named after the cat mentioned in David Bowie’s song Diamond Dogs - a really cool cat, I must say!
It’s been a while since I enjoyed a healing fiction this much, and this one ticks all the boxes for me. Highly recommended if you love books, cats, and a little history of Japan - specifically Onomichi. 📖🇯🇵
It’s set in Onomichi, a hilly, nostalgic port city in Hiroshima. It’s also famous as a hillside cat town, which kind of explains why a bookshop there would be filled with feline friends. The descriptions and places mentioned had me YouTubing vlogs of people who have been there, and I fell in love with the city even more.
The story follows Amane Morikawa, who inherits her grandfather’s bookshop in Onomichi. We follow her journey as she reconnects with people who knew her grandfather and with her old friends, as well as her journey publishing a hidden manuscript by a writer from the city.
I love how the author weaves in references to books, old Japanese writers and poets. One of them is Naoya Shiga, a renowned novelist who lived in Onomichi from 1912 to 1914 and drew inspiration from it for his work A Dark Night’s Passing. He even has a monument dedicated to him in the city.
Another reason to visit is the Onomichi Literature Path - a scenic 1-kilometer walking trail featuring 25 natural stones engraved with literary quotes from famous authors.
I could really relate to Amane’s passion for working with books, and that made me love this novel even more. The cats are equally charming. There’s a brown tabby called Halloween Jack, named after the cat mentioned in David Bowie’s song Diamond Dogs - a really cool cat, I must say!
It’s been a while since I enjoyed a healing fiction this much, and this one ticks all the boxes for me. Highly recommended if you love books, cats, and a little history of Japan - specifically Onomichi. 📖🇯🇵
September 23, 2026
Thank you HarperCollins for providing me with the aARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Book and publishing enthusiast Amane has hit hard times; she has awkwardly fallen out with her friend, she no longer has living relatives and the publisher she worked for has gone bankrupt. Just when she doesn't know what to do next, she finds out that her grandfather, whom she had never met, has left her his secondhand bookstore. With nothing else lined up, Amane takes the trip to Onomichi, where she finds several cats living within the bookstore. Amane is still undecided on what she wants to do with her life, but the locals have some advice for her: if you want to set up a shop, especially a bookshop, you'll definitely need at least one cat.
It was nice having a book-loving protagonist, and it brought along some interesting insights on how publishing is run. And what could be cosier than a book about a bookstore filled with cats? Amane doesn't seem much of a cat person, but we do get a good sense of the different cats' personalities. I was especially fond of Sensei, the black cat who always sat on top of the special clock within the bookstore. It's also through Sensei that we get a second perspective to this tale. While we follow Amane in the present, we get several chapters from Sensei's point of view, where he looks back on his life with his past owner. This also brings along a little mystery as Amane discovers a hidden manuscript and she tries to find all the missing pieces of its origin.
I think it's also quite a reflective and thoughtful tale. Amane seems to be someone who tends to overthink things, which also stops her from moving forward. It's her friends, new and old, who show her how to live in the here and now, and I think that's also shown nicely by the different paths everyone has taken and how it's led them to where they are now.
Any cat or book lover would be well served with this one. It's also made me want to visit Onomichi; apparently, there is a Cat Alley, and the book's descriptions gave me a really nice impression.
July 4, 2026
I used to be what you can call a dog person, and I never would have thought that one day I would have a cat.
Well, life not only brought me a cat in fact it brought me tree!
Two tiger cats one grey and white, the other brown and black. And the latest is white and black.
Just as told in this book, cats are odd creatures whom are hard to decipher.
But they do act as if there’s a whole world of thought going on in their heads, of which we can only presume we understand.
The story follows a young woman on a crossroad in her life, which leads her back to her childhood town.
She inherits a second hand bookshop from her grandfather whom she never met.
At first she’s lost, not knowing what to do next with her life. Yet the shop comes with a surprise, a bunch of cats.
They’ll play a significant role in her discovery of town, meeting the right people and helping her connecting the dots.
How the story unfolds made me think of one of my favorite quotes “Life finds a way”.
And the ending (that I won’t spoiler) had me moved, which is quite exceptional.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me this opportunity.
Well, life not only brought me a cat in fact it brought me tree!
Two tiger cats one grey and white, the other brown and black. And the latest is white and black.
Just as told in this book, cats are odd creatures whom are hard to decipher.
But they do act as if there’s a whole world of thought going on in their heads, of which we can only presume we understand.
The story follows a young woman on a crossroad in her life, which leads her back to her childhood town.
She inherits a second hand bookshop from her grandfather whom she never met.
At first she’s lost, not knowing what to do next with her life. Yet the shop comes with a surprise, a bunch of cats.
They’ll play a significant role in her discovery of town, meeting the right people and helping her connecting the dots.
How the story unfolds made me think of one of my favorite quotes “Life finds a way”.
And the ending (that I won’t spoiler) had me moved, which is quite exceptional.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me this opportunity.
September 21, 2026
let's be so real we all read a book for its cover from time to time and this book was it for me! I was confused for some parts as I didn't know how some of the timelines would come together but I think that was mainly due to the audiobook. I loved some of the points that were raised about the publishing industry and how books can come to be seen as products as opposed to experiences. 3.5 star!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is, quite possibly, the perfect healing fiction story. While pretty simple, it's a nice story to spend time with. The writing does a lot to make the book feel richer and more layered than it probably is.
😻 Not only are there loads of cats, we get sections told from their perspective!
😻 A truly incredible setting in Onomichi, which I could vividly picture!
😻 The theme of Japanese literature throughout the book was great and gave me some new recs to check out! I also appreciated the Japanese idioms that peppered the book, it was great these were explained rather than westernized!
😻 The pace is steady. This isn't a book to rocket through but one to read over a few sessions
😻 Theme of community connections worked for me, both how Amane was meeting other shopkeepers and healing relationships from her past
😻 While a bit neat and tidy, I still loved the connection between Amane and Sensei's stories
😻 The weather cat puppet. I need to figure out of this is a real thing, because it was wonderful
😻 ZERO communing with the dead
If you need a gentle read for a rainy day, want to hang out with some cats, or armchair travel to Onomichi, check out this book. I thought I was burned out of this genre, but this felt fresh and I really enjoyed it! 4.5/5
😾 Note on the cover: The Vanishing Cherry Blossom Bookshop probably had the most beautiful book cover of 2025, where this one feels so... blah. I worry it's AI-generated: I mean, that black cat has five legs, doesn't he? And the perfect spot across the two front legs of the rightmost cat?
😻 Not only are there loads of cats, we get sections told from their perspective!
😻 A truly incredible setting in Onomichi, which I could vividly picture!
😻 The theme of Japanese literature throughout the book was great and gave me some new recs to check out! I also appreciated the Japanese idioms that peppered the book, it was great these were explained rather than westernized!
😻 The pace is steady. This isn't a book to rocket through but one to read over a few sessions
😻 Theme of community connections worked for me, both how Amane was meeting other shopkeepers and healing relationships from her past
😻 While a bit neat and tidy, I still loved the connection between Amane and Sensei's stories
😻 The weather cat puppet. I need to figure out of this is a real thing, because it was wonderful
😻 ZERO communing with the dead
If you need a gentle read for a rainy day, want to hang out with some cats, or armchair travel to Onomichi, check out this book. I thought I was burned out of this genre, but this felt fresh and I really enjoyed it! 4.5/5
😾 Note on the cover: The Vanishing Cherry Blossom Bookshop probably had the most beautiful book cover of 2025, where this one feels so... blah. I worry it's AI-generated: I mean, that black cat has five legs, doesn't he? And the perfect spot across the two front legs of the rightmost cat?
September 11, 2026
A comforting, cozy premise that tackled a view on literature and book publishing industry in a day-to-day arc. Set in a small town of Onomichi, I followed Amane who just returned to her hometown after losing her publishing job and was inherited with a bookshop that once owned by her late grandfather. With a help of a black cat that always sat otop of a tall hall clock inside the bookshop, Amane found a hidden unpublished manuscript that upon reading, it has hooked her to discover a new sense of direction in realizing her dream.
Truly loved how Onomichi felt like a character and way the central setting of Amane’s little run-down bookshop was crafted. I get to see the neighborhood and its community while Amane was out on her strolls meeting her new neighbors from a clockmaker to photographer and a record-shop owner; a friendly encounter with a glimpse of heartfelt reflection throughout, bit drama-ish on its emotional conflict, friendship and familial insights yet I liked how the exploration and esp the interactions go in between the characters.
The cats are my fav and I appreciate that they are not just a deco to the plot but really exist as part of the tale having their own perspectives in between; that surreal Sensei the black cat who traversed the past and present acting like a guardian because of the mistress’ words— I was curious but also loved how his story lured me towards the mystery on both the bookshop and Amane’s backstory. Interesting details on the book publishing part, those talks on music and books as well about writers and writings.
A lovely, quiet tale overall and I liked how the ‘magic’ works for Amane in finding her way back to what she loves to do. Would recommend to lovers of healing and slice-of-life fiction or if you love a book about book and second chance stories. Do prepare catnipsss!
(review copy courtesy of Times Reads)
Truly loved how Onomichi felt like a character and way the central setting of Amane’s little run-down bookshop was crafted. I get to see the neighborhood and its community while Amane was out on her strolls meeting her new neighbors from a clockmaker to photographer and a record-shop owner; a friendly encounter with a glimpse of heartfelt reflection throughout, bit drama-ish on its emotional conflict, friendship and familial insights yet I liked how the exploration and esp the interactions go in between the characters.
The cats are my fav and I appreciate that they are not just a deco to the plot but really exist as part of the tale having their own perspectives in between; that surreal Sensei the black cat who traversed the past and present acting like a guardian because of the mistress’ words— I was curious but also loved how his story lured me towards the mystery on both the bookshop and Amane’s backstory. Interesting details on the book publishing part, those talks on music and books as well about writers and writings.
A lovely, quiet tale overall and I liked how the ‘magic’ works for Amane in finding her way back to what she loves to do. Would recommend to lovers of healing and slice-of-life fiction or if you love a book about book and second chance stories. Do prepare catnipsss!
(review copy courtesy of Times Reads)
September 11, 2026
This book is exactly what you expect it to be. It has cats, books, a cozy Japanese small town, and a hint of magical realism. It's a prototypical Japanese slice-of-life comfort read. If you like these books, you will like this one. If you've never read one of these, this would be a reasonable one to start with. It's a bit better written than some from this genre I've read lately.
If the cover speaks to you, then this book is for you. There's not really anything else I need to say - just look at those cats and pick it up!
If the cover speaks to you, then this book is for you. There's not really anything else I need to say - just look at those cats and pick it up!
September 18, 2026
Cute and quaint story, but didn't captivate me.
August 1, 2026
First, I want to start thanking netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review.
This was such a nice palete cleanser read. A solid 4 ⭐️
‘If you’re going to run a shop here in Onomichi, you absolutely need one or two cat regulars –especially if it’s a bookshop.’
I’d like to start by saying that japanese literature has some of the coziest (sometimes underline sad or intentionally thoughtfull thinking) narratives when the subject is inner healing, self discovery and such.
In this book we follow Amane, a adult woman that always loved and dreamed on working with books, after seen herself jobless she goes back to her hometown where she inherited a second hand bookshop from her late granddad (whom she had no contact with).
During the year the book follows, we see Amane rediscovering her passion for books, publishing, but also about her hometown, old and new friendships and most of all herself and the cats of Onomichi.
The writing is also simple but with a good flow and easy descriptions osf scenarios or scenes.
Definitely a good book for those who enjoy a short break from genres like fantasy or such, or are just fans of japanese literature.
This was such a nice palete cleanser read. A solid 4 ⭐️
‘If you’re going to run a shop here in Onomichi, you absolutely need one or two cat regulars –especially if it’s a bookshop.’
I’d like to start by saying that japanese literature has some of the coziest (sometimes underline sad or intentionally thoughtfull thinking) narratives when the subject is inner healing, self discovery and such.
In this book we follow Amane, a adult woman that always loved and dreamed on working with books, after seen herself jobless she goes back to her hometown where she inherited a second hand bookshop from her late granddad (whom she had no contact with).
During the year the book follows, we see Amane rediscovering her passion for books, publishing, but also about her hometown, old and new friendships and most of all herself and the cats of Onomichi.
The writing is also simple but with a good flow and easy descriptions osf scenarios or scenes.
Definitely a good book for those who enjoy a short break from genres like fantasy or such, or are just fans of japanese literature.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There are some books that feel like a warm cup of tea on a quiet afternoon, and Every Bookshop Needs a Cat is very much one of them. Gentle, cosy and quietly thoughtful, this is a story to settle into rather than rush through.
Amane Morikawa returns to her childhood town of Onomichi after inheriting her grandfather’s bookshop. What she finds is a dusty, neglected space with empty shelves — and a group of cats who have made themselves very much at home. As Amane begins getting to know the people and animals around the shop, she slowly starts to find her way towards reopening it and, perhaps, finding a new sense of purpose for herself.
I really enjoyed the gentle pacing of this book. There are no dramatic twists or big revelations driving the story; instead, it focuses on people, books, cats and the small connections that can gradually help us move forward. One line in particular really stayed with me: “The seasons are indifferent to my inability to move forward... How am I supposed to live?” It captures so well the quiet sense of being stuck that runs through Amane’s story.
One of my favourite aspects was getting Sensei the cat’s perspective. His POV was unexpected but surprisingly insightful, giving the story a unique perspective and allowing us to see Amane and the people around her in a different way. I especially loved the relationship that develops between Amane and Sensei — there is something wonderfully understated and tender about it.
The descriptions of Onomichi also really worked for me. I could picture the town so clearly, and by the end I desperately wanted to wander its streets, browse its bookshops and sit somewhere quiet with a book. The sense of community was another highlight, as was the way Japanese literature, traditions and everyday life are woven naturally into the story.
My only real criticism is the cover. It is beautiful at first glance, but the more I looked at it, the more something felt slightly off. The black cat in particular appears to have three front legs, which unfortunately made me wonder whether the artwork had been AI-generated. It feels at odds with the warmth and care of the story itself.
This is a lovely choice if you’re looking for a quiet, comforting read about books, cats, community and finding your way forward when life hasn’t quite gone according to plan. This reminded me of the charm of Japanese stories such as The Cat Who Saved Books and The Full Moon Coffee Shop, with its gentle pace, cosy atmosphere and quietly healing themes, while still having an identity of its own.
Recommended for: readers who enjoy cosy bookshop stories, cats, Japanese settings and gentle “healing” fiction; particularly those who prefer character-driven stories over dramatic plot twists.
Content warnings: grief, loss, loneliness, family difficulties, emotional distress.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Amane Morikawa returns to her childhood town of Onomichi after inheriting her grandfather’s bookshop. What she finds is a dusty, neglected space with empty shelves — and a group of cats who have made themselves very much at home. As Amane begins getting to know the people and animals around the shop, she slowly starts to find her way towards reopening it and, perhaps, finding a new sense of purpose for herself.
I really enjoyed the gentle pacing of this book. There are no dramatic twists or big revelations driving the story; instead, it focuses on people, books, cats and the small connections that can gradually help us move forward. One line in particular really stayed with me: “The seasons are indifferent to my inability to move forward... How am I supposed to live?” It captures so well the quiet sense of being stuck that runs through Amane’s story.
One of my favourite aspects was getting Sensei the cat’s perspective. His POV was unexpected but surprisingly insightful, giving the story a unique perspective and allowing us to see Amane and the people around her in a different way. I especially loved the relationship that develops between Amane and Sensei — there is something wonderfully understated and tender about it.
The descriptions of Onomichi also really worked for me. I could picture the town so clearly, and by the end I desperately wanted to wander its streets, browse its bookshops and sit somewhere quiet with a book. The sense of community was another highlight, as was the way Japanese literature, traditions and everyday life are woven naturally into the story.
My only real criticism is the cover. It is beautiful at first glance, but the more I looked at it, the more something felt slightly off. The black cat in particular appears to have three front legs, which unfortunately made me wonder whether the artwork had been AI-generated. It feels at odds with the warmth and care of the story itself.
This is a lovely choice if you’re looking for a quiet, comforting read about books, cats, community and finding your way forward when life hasn’t quite gone according to plan. This reminded me of the charm of Japanese stories such as The Cat Who Saved Books and The Full Moon Coffee Shop, with its gentle pace, cosy atmosphere and quietly healing themes, while still having an identity of its own.
Recommended for: readers who enjoy cosy bookshop stories, cats, Japanese settings and gentle “healing” fiction; particularly those who prefer character-driven stories over dramatic plot twists.
Content warnings: grief, loss, loneliness, family difficulties, emotional distress.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to HarperCollins UK (HarperFiction) and NetGalley for the ARC! The review is personal and unaltered by external factors.
5/5
“Every Bookshop Needs a Cat” by Takuya Asakura is a slice of life novel set in Onomichi, a seaside town, following the lives of Amane Morikawa, an editor from Tokyo whose workplace had gone bankrupt, and Sonoko Kuonji, a writer whose works have been lost due to the passage of time and tumultuous eras in Japan. Following the loss of her job, Amane has inherited a second-hand bookshop from her maternal grandfather, and returns to her hometown after having left in her teen years, after the death of her mother and her switching schools as her father took over her guardianship and education. Returning to Onomichi, Amane goes through a lot of self-reflection, discovering once more not only her love for literature and books, but also reconnecting with her roots and the community around her. And, of course, the cats of Onomichi.
Amane’s character is quite delightful to read; being in her 20s, she has the first slump of her adult life after having lost her job, and her state of suspense following her move has her questioning everything she’s done so far. However, her roots still stay the same, as her love for literature and publishing ultimately wins, Amane reopening the second-hand bookshop her grandfather had left her. The development and enlightenment of her mind happens through Amane’s newly found friendships in the town, along with her reconnecting with friends she’d failed to keep in touch with, in addition to having a newly found responsibility as a part-time cat guardian — as her house is frequented by a decent amount of cats she has “inherited” from her grandfather as well.
In parallel, through Sensei’s perspective, we see flashbacks of Sonoko Kuonji’s life, and how it connects to Amane herself. Like a puzzle, all the pieces settle in beautifully by the end of the novel, and we see two women connected by similar destinies, both accomplishing their dreams with the help of one another. With a touch of magic realism typical to the shinto faith, Takuya Asakura manages to bring a heart-warming resolution to her book, having female bonds transcend time and space.
The prose is rather lyrical at times, this feature highlighted by the simple yet emotional language used by the author and beautifully handled by the translator. I genuinely felt that there was nothing lost in translation and even found the translator’s usage of vocabulary and language elegantly warm.
I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoyed “Days at the Morisaki Bookshop” by Satoshi Yagisawa, “Natsume's Book of Friends” by Yuki Midorikawa as well as the aesthetic of the Ghibli films “Whisper of the Heart” and “From Up on Poppy Hill”.
5/5
“Every Bookshop Needs a Cat” by Takuya Asakura is a slice of life novel set in Onomichi, a seaside town, following the lives of Amane Morikawa, an editor from Tokyo whose workplace had gone bankrupt, and Sonoko Kuonji, a writer whose works have been lost due to the passage of time and tumultuous eras in Japan. Following the loss of her job, Amane has inherited a second-hand bookshop from her maternal grandfather, and returns to her hometown after having left in her teen years, after the death of her mother and her switching schools as her father took over her guardianship and education. Returning to Onomichi, Amane goes through a lot of self-reflection, discovering once more not only her love for literature and books, but also reconnecting with her roots and the community around her. And, of course, the cats of Onomichi.
Amane’s character is quite delightful to read; being in her 20s, she has the first slump of her adult life after having lost her job, and her state of suspense following her move has her questioning everything she’s done so far. However, her roots still stay the same, as her love for literature and publishing ultimately wins, Amane reopening the second-hand bookshop her grandfather had left her. The development and enlightenment of her mind happens through Amane’s newly found friendships in the town, along with her reconnecting with friends she’d failed to keep in touch with, in addition to having a newly found responsibility as a part-time cat guardian — as her house is frequented by a decent amount of cats she has “inherited” from her grandfather as well.
In parallel, through Sensei’s perspective, we see flashbacks of Sonoko Kuonji’s life, and how it connects to Amane herself. Like a puzzle, all the pieces settle in beautifully by the end of the novel, and we see two women connected by similar destinies, both accomplishing their dreams with the help of one another. With a touch of magic realism typical to the shinto faith, Takuya Asakura manages to bring a heart-warming resolution to her book, having female bonds transcend time and space.
The prose is rather lyrical at times, this feature highlighted by the simple yet emotional language used by the author and beautifully handled by the translator. I genuinely felt that there was nothing lost in translation and even found the translator’s usage of vocabulary and language elegantly warm.
I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoyed “Days at the Morisaki Bookshop” by Satoshi Yagisawa, “Natsume's Book of Friends” by Yuki Midorikawa as well as the aesthetic of the Ghibli films “Whisper of the Heart” and “From Up on Poppy Hill”.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
[ARC REVIEW 📖]
Every Bookshop Needs A Cat
Author : Takuya Asakura
Translator : Yuka Maeno
Onomichi is a town by the sea, full of twisting, maze-like alleyways & steep slopes. This same town is well-known for its many stories, one where countless literary masters left their footprints in, & most of all, a town full of cats.
This 13-chapter novel begins w/ the protagonist of the story, Ms. Amane Morikawa, who inherited her grandfather's (Toriumi) 2nd-hand bookshop "Tamauradŏ", a shop painted in white on the glass of four sliding doors w/c stood at the north-west corner of 4-way junction located in the city of Onomichi. Upon entering the shop, there were a few things that she directly noticed : 1.) the smell w/c was earthy like dust, 2.) the air w/c was warmer inside than outside, & 3.) the cats w/c were all around the shop, watching her every move.
This is a slow-paced lyrical prose w/ no bombastic plot. It is a slice-of-life narration of the mundane life of the protagonist, who was once an editor, but then lost her job due to the company going bankrupt. By twist of fate, inheriting her grandfather's shop "saved" her in a way from being completely lost. While trying to decide what she wants to do in life, she recalls her educational-to-career journey including her friendship w/ her previous classmate Kana Shirakawa. While continuing to stay in Onomichi, she discovers parts of the town she never had the chance to explore during her childhood, & felt a twinge of guilt at this realisation. As time passes, she does a ton of self-reflection, rediscovering her love & passion for books, as well as building connections w/ people that gave her a new purpose in life --- to re-open the bookshop.
There are so many things I want to point out that stayed w/ me : 1.) The cat's ("Sensei") POV as it narrates its side of the story w/ the mistress novelist Sonoko Kuonji, from the prologue, to the interlude & to the epilogue, 2.) the kind community of people who were friends w/ Toriumi-san, & 3.) the sneaky & witty felines who bring Ms. Morikawa everywhere to uncover new adventures!
Overall, I enjoyed this! It gave me a lot of insight & time to self-reflect as well. Ms. Morikawa was such a lovely character! Also out of curiosity, I listened to "Dance of Hours" on Spotify & the melody was indeed familiar! Never knew the song's title till just now! 🤯
Thank you Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction & to the author for the opportunity to read! 🥹🫶
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S.
Follow me for more book reviews on:
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Every Bookshop Needs A Cat
Author : Takuya Asakura
Translator : Yuka Maeno
Onomichi is a town by the sea, full of twisting, maze-like alleyways & steep slopes. This same town is well-known for its many stories, one where countless literary masters left their footprints in, & most of all, a town full of cats.
This 13-chapter novel begins w/ the protagonist of the story, Ms. Amane Morikawa, who inherited her grandfather's (Toriumi) 2nd-hand bookshop "Tamauradŏ", a shop painted in white on the glass of four sliding doors w/c stood at the north-west corner of 4-way junction located in the city of Onomichi. Upon entering the shop, there were a few things that she directly noticed : 1.) the smell w/c was earthy like dust, 2.) the air w/c was warmer inside than outside, & 3.) the cats w/c were all around the shop, watching her every move.
This is a slow-paced lyrical prose w/ no bombastic plot. It is a slice-of-life narration of the mundane life of the protagonist, who was once an editor, but then lost her job due to the company going bankrupt. By twist of fate, inheriting her grandfather's shop "saved" her in a way from being completely lost. While trying to decide what she wants to do in life, she recalls her educational-to-career journey including her friendship w/ her previous classmate Kana Shirakawa. While continuing to stay in Onomichi, she discovers parts of the town she never had the chance to explore during her childhood, & felt a twinge of guilt at this realisation. As time passes, she does a ton of self-reflection, rediscovering her love & passion for books, as well as building connections w/ people that gave her a new purpose in life --- to re-open the bookshop.
There are so many things I want to point out that stayed w/ me : 1.) The cat's ("Sensei") POV as it narrates its side of the story w/ the mistress novelist Sonoko Kuonji, from the prologue, to the interlude & to the epilogue, 2.) the kind community of people who were friends w/ Toriumi-san, & 3.) the sneaky & witty felines who bring Ms. Morikawa everywhere to uncover new adventures!
Overall, I enjoyed this! It gave me a lot of insight & time to self-reflect as well. Ms. Morikawa was such a lovely character! Also out of curiosity, I listened to "Dance of Hours" on Spotify & the melody was indeed familiar! Never knew the song's title till just now! 🤯
Thank you Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction & to the author for the opportunity to read! 🥹🫶
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S.
Follow me for more book reviews on:
❥ Instagram @bookwormdenz
❥ Threads @denz.kaye
❥ Meta @bookworm.denz
❥ Goodreads @bookwormdenz
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Every Bookshop Needs A Cat by Takuya Asakura, translated by Yuka Maeno
This is the kind of book you read when you are recovering/going through a very bad burn out, or feeling tired and stagnant in your life. Personally, I felt that this book showed what it means for life to unfold, aka your efforts + time required for things to fall in place.
This book follows Amane Morikawa who moves back to her hometown Onomichi after losing her job in Tokyo. Defeated, lost, and scared she moves into the second-hand bookstore/house she inherited from her grandfather. The bookshop is occupied by cats - lots of them, who seem to have found their haven in the bookshelves and other cozy corners. Thus, we start the journey of Amane trying to move on and reopening the bookshop.
This seems like a very cliched, typical translated fiction, but the realistic timeline it shows with respect to healing and recovering is what makes it so special to me. We have months going by without anything significant happening and we have a limited number of people (side characters) that are a part/become part of Amane's life. Nonetheless, we also have a beautiful depiction of reconnection, along with feline magic full of love and playfulness.
Cats are as much a part of this story as our main character Amane, and have beautiful distinctive personalities that we get to see as the story progresses. We also get to listen to some parts of the story from the cats' perspective too. And honestly, this was so fun!
I completed reading this book at an extremely uneven pace over the course of a month and a half. Sometimes, I read like there was no tomorrow and sometimes reading even a single page felt like a chore. This might make the book feel very inconsistent, but that is the most charming aspect of this book.
The main character is relatable, and is fleshed out well, but the side characters were not fleshed out enough. They had their personalities and stories which weren't explored enough, which sometimes gave me the impression that they were there just to support Amane and have no part of their own. But, I will especially remember the conversations between Marie and Amane. They were such good reminders for overthinkers like Amane and me. > <
Overall, I loved this book. It reaffirmed my belief that books find you and not the other way around. For me, it was a 5 star because some aspects resonated with me very deeply.
This book might not be for everyone since the plot takes time to unfold and doesn't have a grand, dramatic end. With a light hint of magical realism, I would recommend to go into this book a little blindly without reading too deeply into the blurb or the reviews. This will definitely add to the experience!
Thank you so much Harperfiction and Netgalley for giving me a chance to read this book.
Note: All thoughts are my own and have been written without the use of AI.
This is the kind of book you read when you are recovering/going through a very bad burn out, or feeling tired and stagnant in your life. Personally, I felt that this book showed what it means for life to unfold, aka your efforts + time required for things to fall in place.
This book follows Amane Morikawa who moves back to her hometown Onomichi after losing her job in Tokyo. Defeated, lost, and scared she moves into the second-hand bookstore/house she inherited from her grandfather. The bookshop is occupied by cats - lots of them, who seem to have found their haven in the bookshelves and other cozy corners. Thus, we start the journey of Amane trying to move on and reopening the bookshop.
This seems like a very cliched, typical translated fiction, but the realistic timeline it shows with respect to healing and recovering is what makes it so special to me. We have months going by without anything significant happening and we have a limited number of people (side characters) that are a part/become part of Amane's life. Nonetheless, we also have a beautiful depiction of reconnection, along with feline magic full of love and playfulness.
Cats are as much a part of this story as our main character Amane, and have beautiful distinctive personalities that we get to see as the story progresses. We also get to listen to some parts of the story from the cats' perspective too. And honestly, this was so fun!
I completed reading this book at an extremely uneven pace over the course of a month and a half. Sometimes, I read like there was no tomorrow and sometimes reading even a single page felt like a chore. This might make the book feel very inconsistent, but that is the most charming aspect of this book.
The main character is relatable, and is fleshed out well, but the side characters were not fleshed out enough. They had their personalities and stories which weren't explored enough, which sometimes gave me the impression that they were there just to support Amane and have no part of their own. But, I will especially remember the conversations between Marie and Amane. They were such good reminders for overthinkers like Amane and me. > <
Overall, I loved this book. It reaffirmed my belief that books find you and not the other way around. For me, it was a 5 star because some aspects resonated with me very deeply.
This book might not be for everyone since the plot takes time to unfold and doesn't have a grand, dramatic end. With a light hint of magical realism, I would recommend to go into this book a little blindly without reading too deeply into the blurb or the reviews. This will definitely add to the experience!
Thank you so much Harperfiction and Netgalley for giving me a chance to read this book.
Note: All thoughts are my own and have been written without the use of AI.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is one of those Japanese feel-good books that I adore reading and it’s full of books and cats so it’s a win-win. Twenty-something Amane returns to Onomichi, the hometown of her youth, with her head down. She had been working in Tokyo in publishing, a job she adored, but the company has now failed and so she has come back. At the same time she has inherited her late grandfather’s second-hand bookshop. For the first time in her life she feels she has been knocked down and doesn’t know what to do. As for the bookshop, she finds not only that it is dusty, full of empty bookshelves, but it also has a collection of cats who seem to have made it their home. It also contains a huge hall clock that plays the ‘Dance of Hours’ at noon everyday and on top of this there is a black cat. Each chapter is a month as we follow Aname starting with March followed by April and so on. As the months pass she begins to reconnect with old friends she left behind when she went to Tokyo as well as others in the neighbourhood. The clockmaker who had been looking after not only the clock but also the cats, A photographer and a record shop owner. We see Amane is an almost state of suspended animation as she questions everything. The thing she knows is that her love of books has never waned but can she ever return to publishing? She also knows that she does want to reopen her grandfather’s shop. This is a very gentle read and the pace is steady, not too slow. What is also super is that we also get a POV from the cat on top of the clock, he is the bookend to this novel - the prologue and the epilogue with a couple or so interludes in-between. The sense of community within this novel is strong and as for the cats - well life is always better with a cat. With the addition of a long deceased author, Sonoko Kuonji, this book is a sort of puzzle that fits together perfectly. A lovely read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I had read The Vanishing Cherry Blossom Bookshop previously from the same author and I adored it because of how charming, whimsical and highly poignant it was, so when Every Bookshop Needs a Cat was announced I knew I had to read it.
For me, it is a wholesome, whimsical and beautifully written book, which feels a bit like a hug in a book. The prose is beautiful and the descriptions of the book’s setting of Onomichi are stunning. One point in the book describes a set of photographs in a gallery showing Japan’s landscape and wildlife and I genuinely felt as though I could visualize them for myself, they were that exact and vividly described.
The plot between the bookstore and the cats was so well done. I loved how Armane needed to start a new life in Onomichi and the bookshop and the cats helped her do that, even though she would prefer to be still living in Tokyo in her editor’s job at a small publishing house. The mystical aspects with the cats was so interesting and the back and forth timelines was very easy to follow, interludes included.
I just found it a very beautifully written, thought-provoking and emotional read. 5 stars without a doubt. I would highly recommend it, especially as it is a great short read, under 300 pages, and is a beautiful insight into life in Japan, Japanese culture and folklore. It’s also a beautiful love letter to bookshops, books and traditional publishing, especially in the age we are in now with everything being available online with the click/tap of a button/screen, along with AI in the mix and people gravitating back to a more analogue lifestyle.
Thank you to Harpercollins UK and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
For me, it is a wholesome, whimsical and beautifully written book, which feels a bit like a hug in a book. The prose is beautiful and the descriptions of the book’s setting of Onomichi are stunning. One point in the book describes a set of photographs in a gallery showing Japan’s landscape and wildlife and I genuinely felt as though I could visualize them for myself, they were that exact and vividly described.
The plot between the bookstore and the cats was so well done. I loved how Armane needed to start a new life in Onomichi and the bookshop and the cats helped her do that, even though she would prefer to be still living in Tokyo in her editor’s job at a small publishing house. The mystical aspects with the cats was so interesting and the back and forth timelines was very easy to follow, interludes included.
I just found it a very beautifully written, thought-provoking and emotional read. 5 stars without a doubt. I would highly recommend it, especially as it is a great short read, under 300 pages, and is a beautiful insight into life in Japan, Japanese culture and folklore. It’s also a beautiful love letter to bookshops, books and traditional publishing, especially in the age we are in now with everything being available online with the click/tap of a button/screen, along with AI in the mix and people gravitating back to a more analogue lifestyle.
Thank you to Harpercollins UK and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rated 3.5/4/5
Netgalley Review
The writing was gentle and thought provoking. There were lots of little details that, whilst seemingly random at the beginning, cleverly all tied up by the end. I enjoyed seeing how everything gradually came together.
The book was made up of a Prologue, Chapters and ended with an Epilogue. There were also little interludes where we got to see the story from the cats' point of view. There were some dates and titles throughout the book which gave you a hint as to what you were going to read about as well as grounding the story well. When you did swap perspectives, it was always clear whose point of view you were reading from.
There was an interesting flow between the chapters created by the different points of view. It was very cleverly laid out and well thought through as to how it was all going to come together. There was a slow, delicate pace to the book with seemingly random moments gradually coming together to create a satisfying end.
The characters were great. I enjoyed seeing how the main character got to know the various people in her home town. The cats were an excellent addition and added a nice extra layer to the story. There were some lovely heartwarming moments throughout the story between the characters which was nice to read about. I particularly enjoyed seeing the supporting characters happily helping out the main character in one way or another on her journey.
Lastly the settings. There were some lovely descriptions and moments that really brought the story to life. The overall village life was a joy to read about.
Overall a gentle, slow paced, heartwarming read.
Netgalley Review
The writing was gentle and thought provoking. There were lots of little details that, whilst seemingly random at the beginning, cleverly all tied up by the end. I enjoyed seeing how everything gradually came together.
The book was made up of a Prologue, Chapters and ended with an Epilogue. There were also little interludes where we got to see the story from the cats' point of view. There were some dates and titles throughout the book which gave you a hint as to what you were going to read about as well as grounding the story well. When you did swap perspectives, it was always clear whose point of view you were reading from.
There was an interesting flow between the chapters created by the different points of view. It was very cleverly laid out and well thought through as to how it was all going to come together. There was a slow, delicate pace to the book with seemingly random moments gradually coming together to create a satisfying end.
The characters were great. I enjoyed seeing how the main character got to know the various people in her home town. The cats were an excellent addition and added a nice extra layer to the story. There were some lovely heartwarming moments throughout the story between the characters which was nice to read about. I particularly enjoyed seeing the supporting characters happily helping out the main character in one way or another on her journey.
Lastly the settings. There were some lovely descriptions and moments that really brought the story to life. The overall village life was a joy to read about.
Overall a gentle, slow paced, heartwarming read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The story starts when Amane Morikawa inherits her grandfather’s old bookshop in Onomichi. When she arrives, she finds a dusty space with empty shelves and a bunch of cats who’ve already moved in and made themselves at home. Freshly out of work and returning to a place she’d stepped away from for years, Amane slowly finds comfort in these furry new friends. As she gets to know the people around town, she starts to reconnect with her love for books, her hometown, and even parts of herself. She sets her heart on reopening the shop, but it’s not going to be easy; maybe these cats knew how.
I’ve always loved how Japanese stories often feel so peaceful and healing, and this one hits just right. The plot is straightforward and moves at a nice, steady pace. This isn’t a book you’ll race through, but one you’ll want to take your time with and enjoy over a few sittings. Even with a simple story, the writing feels full and thoughtful, making everything come alive so clearly. Onomichi especially feels like such a lovely place. I could picture its streets and the buildings perfectly as I read.
And the cats are wonderful! We even get to read the story from their point of view, which is such a fun and sweet touch. Everything wraps up so warm and neatly.
If you’re looking for something calm and comforting, this is such a lovely choice. It’s also perfect when you want something gentler, a nice break from faster, more intense stories like fantasy or thrillers. It’s the kind of book that leaves you feeling a little lighter and happier once you’ve finished.
Thank you to HarperFiction and NetGalley for providing me with this advance copy.
I’ve always loved how Japanese stories often feel so peaceful and healing, and this one hits just right. The plot is straightforward and moves at a nice, steady pace. This isn’t a book you’ll race through, but one you’ll want to take your time with and enjoy over a few sittings. Even with a simple story, the writing feels full and thoughtful, making everything come alive so clearly. Onomichi especially feels like such a lovely place. I could picture its streets and the buildings perfectly as I read.
And the cats are wonderful! We even get to read the story from their point of view, which is such a fun and sweet touch. Everything wraps up so warm and neatly.
If you’re looking for something calm and comforting, this is such a lovely choice. It’s also perfect when you want something gentler, a nice break from faster, more intense stories like fantasy or thrillers. It’s the kind of book that leaves you feeling a little lighter and happier once you’ve finished.
Thank you to HarperFiction and NetGalley for providing me with this advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
A young woman who's stumbling in the dark, unsure of where her life is taking her. A forgotten bookstore, only inhabited by a group of cats with a mix of personalities- and a peculiar clock hiding a secret that could finally give Amane the push she needs to find meaning. One story that combines the two, bringing a sense of hope, mystery, nostalgia and love for literature.
This book was so incredibly comforting, Amane is a very relatable character and I really connected with her passion for books and yearning for stories. The story really unfolds the more you read on, and then as a reader you start making these exciting connections that reveal the past and future. Whilst the plot focused a lot on Amane's development, of her finding joy and a place to call home, I also really enjoyed the discovery and mystery of the cats and the clock. It was very whimsical and somehow magically coincidental!
The settings are so lush and poetic, we read as the seasons pass and mirror Amane's journey, there was also some beautiful philosophy within. Obviously I adored the cats, especially Sensei, and the wonder that came with him. Throughout the story we also meet a range of characters who all make an impact of Amane's goal and overall growth, it was nice to see and I especially loved the way things ended.
Overall, this was a highly enjoyable story, perfect for reading if you're feeling a little lost or unsure, or if you just want a feel good, inspirational read with a side of felines!
4/5 🌟
A young woman who's stumbling in the dark, unsure of where her life is taking her. A forgotten bookstore, only inhabited by a group of cats with a mix of personalities- and a peculiar clock hiding a secret that could finally give Amane the push she needs to find meaning. One story that combines the two, bringing a sense of hope, mystery, nostalgia and love for literature.
This book was so incredibly comforting, Amane is a very relatable character and I really connected with her passion for books and yearning for stories. The story really unfolds the more you read on, and then as a reader you start making these exciting connections that reveal the past and future. Whilst the plot focused a lot on Amane's development, of her finding joy and a place to call home, I also really enjoyed the discovery and mystery of the cats and the clock. It was very whimsical and somehow magically coincidental!
The settings are so lush and poetic, we read as the seasons pass and mirror Amane's journey, there was also some beautiful philosophy within. Obviously I adored the cats, especially Sensei, and the wonder that came with him. Throughout the story we also meet a range of characters who all make an impact of Amane's goal and overall growth, it was nice to see and I especially loved the way things ended.
Overall, this was a highly enjoyable story, perfect for reading if you're feeling a little lost or unsure, or if you just want a feel good, inspirational read with a side of felines!
4/5 🌟
September 24, 2026
A sweet, if somewhat strange tale, that was a perfect palette cleanser and warmed something inside.
For all that this is meant to be about a bookshop, the actual bookshop doesn't come to life until about the last chapter. Instead this is a story about a young woman finding her way in the world, rediscovering her passions and learning to just be.
Everyone else in this book was remarkably tolerant to Amane, she blows up the deepest friendship she ever had in one phone conversation, and all it takes is another to fix it years later. She ignores someone for nearly six months, only speaks to them again when she wants something, and they forgive her behaviour. It is all about healing, growth, but it was remarkable how kind everyone was. As these books are.
The cats are lovely, each had their own personality and I loved the gradual unveiling of their lives, getting to learn names and where else they visited. It really captured the cat mentality. Without a doubt, the cats are fantastic, be they the weather cat - which is an adorable little aside, the cats wanting to watch it on tv was so cute - or the ones that stalk the shops, they are the true stars of this book.
And after all...
‘If you’re going to run a shop here in Onomichi, you absolutely need one or two cat regulars –especially if it’s a bookshop.’
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
For all that this is meant to be about a bookshop, the actual bookshop doesn't come to life until about the last chapter. Instead this is a story about a young woman finding her way in the world, rediscovering her passions and learning to just be.
Everyone else in this book was remarkably tolerant to Amane, she blows up the deepest friendship she ever had in one phone conversation, and all it takes is another to fix it years later. She ignores someone for nearly six months, only speaks to them again when she wants something, and they forgive her behaviour. It is all about healing, growth, but it was remarkable how kind everyone was. As these books are.
The cats are lovely, each had their own personality and I loved the gradual unveiling of their lives, getting to learn names and where else they visited. It really captured the cat mentality. Without a doubt, the cats are fantastic, be they the weather cat - which is an adorable little aside, the cats wanting to watch it on tv was so cute - or the ones that stalk the shops, they are the true stars of this book.
And after all...
‘If you’re going to run a shop here in Onomichi, you absolutely need one or two cat regulars –especially if it’s a bookshop.’
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Every Bookshop Needs a Cat is pure comfort — a warm, tender story that feels like stepping into a quiet corner of a bookshop and finding exactly the book you didn’t know you needed. Takuya Asakura blends charm, melancholy, and quiet hope into a tale that unfolds with the soft rhythm of everyday life.
Amane is a beautifully understated protagonist, carrying grief, uncertainty, and the weight of starting over. Her arrival at her grandfather’s neglected bookshop — and the discovery of the cats who’ve claimed it as their own — sets the tone for a story that’s as much about healing as it is about community. The cats are delightful without ever tipping into whimsy; they feel like gentle guardians, nudging Amane toward connection and purpose.
The supporting cast — a clockmaker, a photographer, a record‑shop owner — adds warmth and texture, each encounter slowly stitching Amane back into the world. The bookshop itself becomes a sanctuary, a place where stories, people, and memories quietly intertwine.
This is a soothing, atmospheric read perfect for fans of The Cat Who Saved Books and anyone who loves gentle Japanese fiction filled with heart, introspection, and a touch of magic.
A lovely, restorative story — and yes, every bookshop truly does need a cat.
With thanks to Takuya Asakura, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Amane is a beautifully understated protagonist, carrying grief, uncertainty, and the weight of starting over. Her arrival at her grandfather’s neglected bookshop — and the discovery of the cats who’ve claimed it as their own — sets the tone for a story that’s as much about healing as it is about community. The cats are delightful without ever tipping into whimsy; they feel like gentle guardians, nudging Amane toward connection and purpose.
The supporting cast — a clockmaker, a photographer, a record‑shop owner — adds warmth and texture, each encounter slowly stitching Amane back into the world. The bookshop itself becomes a sanctuary, a place where stories, people, and memories quietly intertwine.
This is a soothing, atmospheric read perfect for fans of The Cat Who Saved Books and anyone who loves gentle Japanese fiction filled with heart, introspection, and a touch of magic.
A lovely, restorative story — and yes, every bookshop truly does need a cat.
With thanks to Takuya Asakura, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A beautiful tale of self-discovery, identity, and agency told through the perspective of a supernatural cat, Sensei, and Amane, a granddaughter who has inherited a small second-hand bookshop.
Amane finds herself redundant when the publishing company she works for closes under debt. With little money, she leaves Tokyo and returns home to Onomichi, where she discovers that her inheritance is a rather ancient bookshop called Tamaurado. Immediately, she notices that it is practically overrun by cats, with one particular black cat perched on an old clock, overseeing everything.
Her return triggers memories of childhood and lost friendships, which are renewed through the help of the mystical cats. Each connection helps guide her self-discovery, offering direction, and slowly we see her begin to emerge.
Through Sensei’s voice, we are given the backstory of Sonoko Kuonji, a brilliant writer of children’s morality stories, and discover how she is linked to Amane. In many ways, both women achieve their dreams with the help of one another.
Takuya Asakura has delivered a beautifully crafted tale that is warm, atmospheric, and immersive, transporting the reader into Onomichi and its quiet magic.
A great read which I highly recommend.
Thank you to Team HarperFiction and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ahead of publication.
Amane finds herself redundant when the publishing company she works for closes under debt. With little money, she leaves Tokyo and returns home to Onomichi, where she discovers that her inheritance is a rather ancient bookshop called Tamaurado. Immediately, she notices that it is practically overrun by cats, with one particular black cat perched on an old clock, overseeing everything.
Her return triggers memories of childhood and lost friendships, which are renewed through the help of the mystical cats. Each connection helps guide her self-discovery, offering direction, and slowly we see her begin to emerge.
Through Sensei’s voice, we are given the backstory of Sonoko Kuonji, a brilliant writer of children’s morality stories, and discover how she is linked to Amane. In many ways, both women achieve their dreams with the help of one another.
Takuya Asakura has delivered a beautifully crafted tale that is warm, atmospheric, and immersive, transporting the reader into Onomichi and its quiet magic.
A great read which I highly recommend.
Thank you to Team HarperFiction and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ahead of publication.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Actual Rating: 3.5⭐
I was so excited to pick this one up—Japanese literature and cats? That combo was basically calling my name!
The setting is gorgeous. The author paints such a vivid picture that I felt like I was right there in a quiet little town in Japan, surrounded by shelves of books and fluffy cats.
Amane’s journey was lovely to follow too—watching her grow while building a new life after inheriting her grandfather’s bookshop (complete with its resident cats!) a wonderfully heart warming feel…
The cats weren’t magical like I half expected, but I actually enjoyed how they became the thread connecting people in the town. They brought folks together, helped them open up, and created this warm sense of community.
My only struggle was the pacing. It’s definitely written for readers who love to sink into a slow, atmospheric narrative.
For me, it sometimes felt like the story stretched longer than it needed to. Still, I can see how others might find that immersive and calming.
Overall, this was a lovely, refreshing read—perfect after tackling something heavier. It reminded me to slow down, savor the moment, and just enjoy the story.
This was my first book by this author, but definitely not my last!
I received a review copy through netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the publisher!
I was so excited to pick this one up—Japanese literature and cats? That combo was basically calling my name!
The setting is gorgeous. The author paints such a vivid picture that I felt like I was right there in a quiet little town in Japan, surrounded by shelves of books and fluffy cats.
Amane’s journey was lovely to follow too—watching her grow while building a new life after inheriting her grandfather’s bookshop (complete with its resident cats!) a wonderfully heart warming feel…
The cats weren’t magical like I half expected, but I actually enjoyed how they became the thread connecting people in the town. They brought folks together, helped them open up, and created this warm sense of community.
My only struggle was the pacing. It’s definitely written for readers who love to sink into a slow, atmospheric narrative.
For me, it sometimes felt like the story stretched longer than it needed to. Still, I can see how others might find that immersive and calming.
Overall, this was a lovely, refreshing read—perfect after tackling something heavier. It reminded me to slow down, savor the moment, and just enjoy the story.
This was my first book by this author, but definitely not my last!
I received a review copy through netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the publisher!
October 1, 2026
I bought this book judging by the cover, guilty as charged. I simply couldn’t resist those cute cats, and I thought it would be a cozy story about two of my favorite things in the world, cats and books.
But unfortunately, the whole story seems to have been lost in translation.
I would normally expect a book translated into English to be translated by a native English speaker, as that’s generally how professional translation works. The target language should ideally be the translator’s native language. That doesn’t seem to be the case here, and unfortunately, you can easily tell the difference while reading the book.
The language is so basic that at times it felt like I was reading a story written for kids. And the idioms have been translated so literally that they lose much of the depth and meaning they presumably have in Japanese. I’m genuinely sad that those nuances didn’t make it into the English version.
As a translator myself, this is probably an occupational hazard for me, and it’s one of the reasons I normally avoid reading translated books. I’m sure the original is a heartwarming, cozy story, but the English version comes across as bland and, at times, almost like a text that has been translated rather than a book originally written in English.
Although, I have to admit the cats were cute. At least there is that :)
But unfortunately, the whole story seems to have been lost in translation.
I would normally expect a book translated into English to be translated by a native English speaker, as that’s generally how professional translation works. The target language should ideally be the translator’s native language. That doesn’t seem to be the case here, and unfortunately, you can easily tell the difference while reading the book.
The language is so basic that at times it felt like I was reading a story written for kids. And the idioms have been translated so literally that they lose much of the depth and meaning they presumably have in Japanese. I’m genuinely sad that those nuances didn’t make it into the English version.
As a translator myself, this is probably an occupational hazard for me, and it’s one of the reasons I normally avoid reading translated books. I’m sure the original is a heartwarming, cozy story, but the English version comes across as bland and, at times, almost like a text that has been translated rather than a book originally written in English.
Although, I have to admit the cats were cute. At least there is that :)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was adorable. I love cozy feelgood novels and here was such a lovely setting! And is there a good book some cats wouldn´t make even better?
Booklover Amane used to work in publishing company, but ended up leaving Tokyo and moving to Onomichi after inheriting her grandfather´s antiquarian bookshop - even still never really knowing him.
The shop is so tiny it helds just a few customers at once, but when Amane arrives, she finds out the shop is full of cats, coming and going as they please. Except the big black one, which seems to guard the antique hall clock...
While Amane is wondering about how to get on, she gets to know other shopkeepers around and little by little, her life starts to feel more clear. While months pass by, she has found a new path to follow and ambitions to reach - as well as important friendships.
I have readen several Asian and Japanese books, and recognize the slowness in the storytelling, but in this book it was so soothing and comforting I noticed relaxing more than usually while reading. Such an enjoyable story to forget the daily life, just enjoy and take a moment for yourself.
Thank you for the e-arc Netgalley, author and the publisher HarperCollins UK / HarperFiction. This was a joy to read.
Booklover Amane used to work in publishing company, but ended up leaving Tokyo and moving to Onomichi after inheriting her grandfather´s antiquarian bookshop - even still never really knowing him.
The shop is so tiny it helds just a few customers at once, but when Amane arrives, she finds out the shop is full of cats, coming and going as they please. Except the big black one, which seems to guard the antique hall clock...
While Amane is wondering about how to get on, she gets to know other shopkeepers around and little by little, her life starts to feel more clear. While months pass by, she has found a new path to follow and ambitions to reach - as well as important friendships.
I have readen several Asian and Japanese books, and recognize the slowness in the storytelling, but in this book it was so soothing and comforting I noticed relaxing more than usually while reading. Such an enjoyable story to forget the daily life, just enjoy and take a moment for yourself.
Thank you for the e-arc Netgalley, author and the publisher HarperCollins UK / HarperFiction. This was a joy to read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amane Morikawa arrives at the bookshop she’s inherited from her grandfather in Onomichi, only to find a dusty space with empty bookshelves – and a group of characterful cats who’ve made it their home.
Comforted by her new feline friends, Amane begins to connect with the people around her. A clockmaker who tends to the cats. A photographer. A record shop owner. Each meeting drawing her closer to a new purpose: reopening the bookshop.
But the shop needs more than repairs … Can the cats, mysterious guardians of the bookshop, lead Amane to the missing piece that will bring it back to life?
I love how this book is written. It’s a gentle, emotional in places, story that is reflective on life. It tells of friendship and healing.
The characters are well developed and not overly complex and I like the way that there are interludes that are told from the cats point of view.
It’s a short easy read without overly complex plots and left me feeling like I had had a big hug at the end. Would recommend this read, particularly if you just want to be in the story.
Thank you to Thank you to #NetGalley and Harper Collins, for my copy of EveryBookshopNeedsacat
Comforted by her new feline friends, Amane begins to connect with the people around her. A clockmaker who tends to the cats. A photographer. A record shop owner. Each meeting drawing her closer to a new purpose: reopening the bookshop.
But the shop needs more than repairs … Can the cats, mysterious guardians of the bookshop, lead Amane to the missing piece that will bring it back to life?
I love how this book is written. It’s a gentle, emotional in places, story that is reflective on life. It tells of friendship and healing.
The characters are well developed and not overly complex and I like the way that there are interludes that are told from the cats point of view.
It’s a short easy read without overly complex plots and left me feeling like I had had a big hug at the end. Would recommend this read, particularly if you just want to be in the story.
Thank you to Thank you to #NetGalley and Harper Collins, for my copy of EveryBookshopNeedsacat
August 24, 2026
Thank you to Takuya Asakura and HarperCollins UK, Harper Fiction for an eARC of this book on NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This was a charming and delightful tale, with the perfect number of cats. The story follows Amane who has unexpectedly inherited her grandfather’s bookshop (despite having never met him). The bookshop is in need of some love, but thankfully Amane finds a small horde of cats who seem to be guardians of the bookshop and have a few mysteries of their own.
The cats are such a central part of the story, and we even get a few chapters from the POV of a cat. Their descriptions leapt off the page and I loved reading about how they helped Amane reconnect with the home town she had forgotten.
Over the course of a year, Amane finds friendship, both old and new, and starts to rediscover herself among the dusty shelves and familiar streets.
Despite being relatively slow paced and short, it was so beautifully written that I wanted to take my time with it. Beneath every chapter were numerous layers of deeper meaning and emotion.
Overall, this was a comforting read with plenty of heart and a lot of cats!
This was a charming and delightful tale, with the perfect number of cats. The story follows Amane who has unexpectedly inherited her grandfather’s bookshop (despite having never met him). The bookshop is in need of some love, but thankfully Amane finds a small horde of cats who seem to be guardians of the bookshop and have a few mysteries of their own.
The cats are such a central part of the story, and we even get a few chapters from the POV of a cat. Their descriptions leapt off the page and I loved reading about how they helped Amane reconnect with the home town she had forgotten.
Over the course of a year, Amane finds friendship, both old and new, and starts to rediscover herself among the dusty shelves and familiar streets.
Despite being relatively slow paced and short, it was so beautifully written that I wanted to take my time with it. Beneath every chapter were numerous layers of deeper meaning and emotion.
Overall, this was a comforting read with plenty of heart and a lot of cats!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book is a literary hug — it has everything I wanted and more. The cosy bookstore setting, the beautiful feline companions, and a sense of wonder and whimsy that was just magical.
It captured the transformative power that a cat can bring into your life, the magic of a good book and just how important having connection with other people is, all through a beautifully spun story of a girl and her new feline friends trying to reopen a long forgotten bookstore.
Most of the prose is wonderful, well paced, poetic but not outrageously so, with a streams of consciousness flow to it that was endearing and compelling. My only issue was that the language at times felt a bit stiff, which could have been a translation issue — sentences being longer than really needed, thoughts the very lovely narrator, although usually in third person, shares with themselves a little too formal, but it didn’t completely ruin the flow or pace. It’s a slow, quiet story about discovering your heritage, your community and and of course, about cats.
Best read with a cat on your lap.
It captured the transformative power that a cat can bring into your life, the magic of a good book and just how important having connection with other people is, all through a beautifully spun story of a girl and her new feline friends trying to reopen a long forgotten bookstore.
Most of the prose is wonderful, well paced, poetic but not outrageously so, with a streams of consciousness flow to it that was endearing and compelling. My only issue was that the language at times felt a bit stiff, which could have been a translation issue — sentences being longer than really needed, thoughts the very lovely narrator, although usually in third person, shares with themselves a little too formal, but it didn’t completely ruin the flow or pace. It’s a slow, quiet story about discovering your heritage, your community and and of course, about cats.
Best read with a cat on your lap.
August 23, 2026
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Takuya Asakura and HarperCollins for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
3.5 ⭐️
Firstly, this book drew so many parallels to my own experiences that I felt touched (and shocked) at the protagonist’s year in the life as a publisher. It definitely gave the book a personal touch for me.
This was a very sweet story about Amane, a young girl looking to find her purpose when her grandfather passes, leaving her with a bookshop seemingly run by cats.
This is the perfect book to pick up if you are looking for something light, as it’s very surface level. There are a few interesting side characters and it felt to me that it was set in an earlier time - perhaps the 90s?
The frame narrative comes together to reveal the total story, which was a nice touch. The enjoyment of the cats as all knowing yet silent creatures was charming.
Definitely a read to curl up with during the autumnal months, with a blanket and a hot chocolate.
3.5 ⭐️
Firstly, this book drew so many parallels to my own experiences that I felt touched (and shocked) at the protagonist’s year in the life as a publisher. It definitely gave the book a personal touch for me.
This was a very sweet story about Amane, a young girl looking to find her purpose when her grandfather passes, leaving her with a bookshop seemingly run by cats.
This is the perfect book to pick up if you are looking for something light, as it’s very surface level. There are a few interesting side characters and it felt to me that it was set in an earlier time - perhaps the 90s?
The frame narrative comes together to reveal the total story, which was a nice touch. The enjoyment of the cats as all knowing yet silent creatures was charming.
Definitely a read to curl up with during the autumnal months, with a blanket and a hot chocolate.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*Actual rating is 4.25 stars*
A book trend that has really resonated with me is the translated Japanese cat centred books. My latest such read, Every Bookshop Needs a Cat, is a slice of life story about loving books, finding your footing in life and the everyday magic that cats provide. As such, there’s no big drama, just the small moments and retrospectives between people and the joy of connecting with other people. Not to mention the poignantly heartfelt power of books, how stories connect to people's life and over the decades. This book was a very chill read, without being boring, that was a nice break from everyday stress and thicker books. It was exactly the kind of book I needed.
—
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperFiction for an e-arc of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A book trend that has really resonated with me is the translated Japanese cat centred books. My latest such read, Every Bookshop Needs a Cat, is a slice of life story about loving books, finding your footing in life and the everyday magic that cats provide. As such, there’s no big drama, just the small moments and retrospectives between people and the joy of connecting with other people. Not to mention the poignantly heartfelt power of books, how stories connect to people's life and over the decades. This book was a very chill read, without being boring, that was a nice break from everyday stress and thicker books. It was exactly the kind of book I needed.
—
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperFiction for an e-arc of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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