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The Creature Keepers
At the Creature Keepers coffee shop, everything thrives on routine.
Marla runs the coffee shop with the help of her creatures. Each item on the menu treats various illnesses, and it is up to Marla to ensure that everything is perfect every day. Even when she is slowly breaking on the inside, and no one notices.
Bakti is the grandson of a clockmaker from the city of Sri Perak. When his creature suddenly stops time with a single sneeze, Bakti is forced to find a healer that he can afford.
What happens when Bakti’s genuine need for help unearths memories long buried? Will the Creature Keepers survive the chaos that unfolds, or will the mask Marla struggles to keep on finally break, allowing her friends to see past her pretenses for the first time?
Marla runs the coffee shop with the help of her creatures. Each item on the menu treats various illnesses, and it is up to Marla to ensure that everything is perfect every day. Even when she is slowly breaking on the inside, and no one notices.
Bakti is the grandson of a clockmaker from the city of Sri Perak. When his creature suddenly stops time with a single sneeze, Bakti is forced to find a healer that he can afford.
What happens when Bakti’s genuine need for help unearths memories long buried? Will the Creature Keepers survive the chaos that unfolds, or will the mask Marla struggles to keep on finally break, allowing her friends to see past her pretenses for the first time?
- GenresFantasy
128 pages, Paperback
First published April 15, 2026
About the author
Nadiah Zakaria
5 books143 followersNadiah is a Malaysian dark fantasy and horror author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 14, 2026
I had always wanted to read this author's work, but I never quite got around to it because I wasn't particularly drawn to the genres of her previous books. At long last, the perfect opportunity arrived. The moment I heard that her latest work had been described as a blend of Kiki's Delivery Service and Fantastic Beasts, I folded instantly and knew I had to pick it up.
I don't read local authors as often as I probably should, but whenever I do, I somehow end up writing much longer reviews than usual. So, forgive me if this turns into one of those reviews as I have quite a few thoughts about what worked for me and, unfortunately, what didn't.
The story follows Marla, a young baker who runs a magical café alongside a collection of delightful creatures, called The Creature Keepers. Every item on her menu is designed to cure a different illness, making her café an important part of the community. Reading this aspect immediately reminded me of Encanto's Julieta Madrigal, whose healing powers are also tied to food. It was a charming concept that drew me into the story.
From the beginning too, I am already spellbound with its visual presentation. I especially loved the illustrated city guide that helps readers understand the world and its divisions on the first page of the book. While the story itself does not spend much time exploring the wider setting, these illustrations help readers visualize the contrast between Belukar and the technologically advanced city of Sri Perak. They added a layer of charm to the reading experience and made the world feel more tangible.
All the same, what I appreciated most was the incorporation of Malay culture into the creatures, setting, and folklore. Many references felt uniquely local, rewarding readers familiar with Malay traditions while adding a refreshing cultural identity to the story. As someone who rarely reads fantasy from local authors, seeing these cultural elements woven so naturally into the story was genuinely exciting.
The healing system itself was another standout. I loved learning how each creature contributed to different remedies, such as the soup snails that swim through broth to enhance its flavor and help treat sore throats and gum infections. These whimsical details gave the world a cozy, imaginative charm. Not to say, the food descriptions were equally delightful. From the pastries to the various kuih featured throughout the story, everything sounded incredibly appetizing. The author's descriptions were vivid enough that I often found myself craving the dishes being served, which made The Creature Keepers feel warm, inviting, and alive.
However, this cozy setup is soon interrupted when Bakti, the grandson of a clockmaker from Sri Perak, arrives seeking Marla's help after his creature accidentally stops time with a sneeze. Unable to afford treatment in his own city, he travels to Belukar after hearing about Marla's reputation. His arrival serves as the catalyst for the story in uncovering what Marla has been keeping to herself.
As the story progresses, we begin to see that Marla's dedication to helping others comes at a personal cost. Beneath her cheerful service lies exhaustion, burnout, and unresolved grief. The gradual revelation of her past, particularly the loss of her parents and the role Sri Perak played in that tragedy, helps explain the resentment she has carried for years. Left to run the café and care for herself at such a young age, Marla has been forced to shoulder responsibilities that no teenager should have to bear alone.
This emotional conflict is clearly meant to be one of the story's central themes. Marla is only sixteen years old, trying to survive while carrying the weight of her grief, so her hostility toward Bakti; a boy from the city she associates with her suffering is understandable. Still, while her emotions make sense, her behavior occasionally became frustrating to read. I understand why she reacts the way she does, but at times her anger felt misplaced and unnecessarily directed at Bakti. I think stronger character writing could have better balanced her grief with her interactions, making her reactions feel less irritating and more emotionally compelling.
Unfortunately, despite the creativity of its ideas, the novella often feels limited by its length. While I understand that novellas cannot provide the same depth as full-length novels, many aspects of the world feel underdeveloped. The relationship between humans and creatures, for example, remains unclear. Are the creatures pets, companions, magical partners, or hereditary beings? Bakti has one creature that has been with him since childhood, while Marla lives alongside many. The story raises these questions without providing satisfying answers. I mean, I would loveee to know more, especially when they are described so adorably (most of them).
Similarly, Bakti's introduction feels somewhat abrupt. Although readers know from the synopsis that he will eventually meet Marla, his personal background receives only minimal attention. We are given enough information to understand his role in the plot, but not enough to make him feel fully realized. As a result, his presence sometimes feels more like a narrative device to advance Marla's journey than a character with his own story to tell.
My issues with the worldbuilding also extended to the setting itself. For a world filled with magical creatures and fascinating concepts, it feels surprisingly small. Most of the story takes place in Marla's café, with brief visits to the library and Bakti's antique shop. Because so little of the wider world is explored, the sense of wonder never fully materializes. Consequently, the cozy atmosphere promised by the premise sometimes gives way to a more confined feeling. The book deals with heavier themes such as grief and loss, which further shifts it away from the comforting, whimsical reading experience I initially expected.
Another aspect that pulled me out of the story was how familiar many of its elements felt. While the book clearly draws inspiration from pieces like the Studio Ghibli which the author has been transparent about given that she was such a fan (same!), some similarities were difficult to ignore. As someone who enjoys Ghibli's works, I usually appreciate references and homages, but here I occasionally found myself wondering where the line lies between inspiration and adaptation. Rather than discovering a world that felt entirely its own, I was often reminded of works that seemed to have inspired it. Other readers may not find this distracting, but for me, the comparisons became difficult to overlook.
Overall, the book is filled with imaginative ideas, charming creatures, delicious food, and meaningful cultural influences. It succeeds in creating moments of warmth and wonder, particularly through its healing café concept and distinctly Malaysian-inspired elements. Conversely, it also feels constrained by its novella format. Many of its most interesting concepts—its worldbuilding, creature lore, and character dynamics—deserve far more space than they receive.
While I admire the creativity behind the story, I ultimately found the execution lacking. Had this been expanded into a full-length novel, I believe it could have been a much richer and more memorable reading experience. Regardless, I still find myself enjoying this and finished in just a sitting which ought to say something! All and above, I do think Nadiah Zakaria is a promising author, and this experience certainly hasn't put me off her work. If I get the chance to read another one of her books in the future, I'd be more than happy to give it a try. :)
I don't read local authors as often as I probably should, but whenever I do, I somehow end up writing much longer reviews than usual. So, forgive me if this turns into one of those reviews as I have quite a few thoughts about what worked for me and, unfortunately, what didn't.
The story follows Marla, a young baker who runs a magical café alongside a collection of delightful creatures, called The Creature Keepers. Every item on her menu is designed to cure a different illness, making her café an important part of the community. Reading this aspect immediately reminded me of Encanto's Julieta Madrigal, whose healing powers are also tied to food. It was a charming concept that drew me into the story.
From the beginning too, I am already spellbound with its visual presentation. I especially loved the illustrated city guide that helps readers understand the world and its divisions on the first page of the book. While the story itself does not spend much time exploring the wider setting, these illustrations help readers visualize the contrast between Belukar and the technologically advanced city of Sri Perak. They added a layer of charm to the reading experience and made the world feel more tangible.
All the same, what I appreciated most was the incorporation of Malay culture into the creatures, setting, and folklore. Many references felt uniquely local, rewarding readers familiar with Malay traditions while adding a refreshing cultural identity to the story. As someone who rarely reads fantasy from local authors, seeing these cultural elements woven so naturally into the story was genuinely exciting.
The healing system itself was another standout. I loved learning how each creature contributed to different remedies, such as the soup snails that swim through broth to enhance its flavor and help treat sore throats and gum infections. These whimsical details gave the world a cozy, imaginative charm. Not to say, the food descriptions were equally delightful. From the pastries to the various kuih featured throughout the story, everything sounded incredibly appetizing. The author's descriptions were vivid enough that I often found myself craving the dishes being served, which made The Creature Keepers feel warm, inviting, and alive.
However, this cozy setup is soon interrupted when Bakti, the grandson of a clockmaker from Sri Perak, arrives seeking Marla's help after his creature accidentally stops time with a sneeze. Unable to afford treatment in his own city, he travels to Belukar after hearing about Marla's reputation. His arrival serves as the catalyst for the story in uncovering what Marla has been keeping to herself.
As the story progresses, we begin to see that Marla's dedication to helping others comes at a personal cost. Beneath her cheerful service lies exhaustion, burnout, and unresolved grief. The gradual revelation of her past, particularly the loss of her parents and the role Sri Perak played in that tragedy, helps explain the resentment she has carried for years. Left to run the café and care for herself at such a young age, Marla has been forced to shoulder responsibilities that no teenager should have to bear alone.
This emotional conflict is clearly meant to be one of the story's central themes. Marla is only sixteen years old, trying to survive while carrying the weight of her grief, so her hostility toward Bakti; a boy from the city she associates with her suffering is understandable. Still, while her emotions make sense, her behavior occasionally became frustrating to read. I understand why she reacts the way she does, but at times her anger felt misplaced and unnecessarily directed at Bakti. I think stronger character writing could have better balanced her grief with her interactions, making her reactions feel less irritating and more emotionally compelling.
Unfortunately, despite the creativity of its ideas, the novella often feels limited by its length. While I understand that novellas cannot provide the same depth as full-length novels, many aspects of the world feel underdeveloped. The relationship between humans and creatures, for example, remains unclear. Are the creatures pets, companions, magical partners, or hereditary beings? Bakti has one creature that has been with him since childhood, while Marla lives alongside many. The story raises these questions without providing satisfying answers. I mean, I would loveee to know more, especially when they are described so adorably (most of them).
Similarly, Bakti's introduction feels somewhat abrupt. Although readers know from the synopsis that he will eventually meet Marla, his personal background receives only minimal attention. We are given enough information to understand his role in the plot, but not enough to make him feel fully realized. As a result, his presence sometimes feels more like a narrative device to advance Marla's journey than a character with his own story to tell.
My issues with the worldbuilding also extended to the setting itself. For a world filled with magical creatures and fascinating concepts, it feels surprisingly small. Most of the story takes place in Marla's café, with brief visits to the library and Bakti's antique shop. Because so little of the wider world is explored, the sense of wonder never fully materializes. Consequently, the cozy atmosphere promised by the premise sometimes gives way to a more confined feeling. The book deals with heavier themes such as grief and loss, which further shifts it away from the comforting, whimsical reading experience I initially expected.
Another aspect that pulled me out of the story was how familiar many of its elements felt. While the book clearly draws inspiration from pieces like the Studio Ghibli which the author has been transparent about given that she was such a fan (same!), some similarities were difficult to ignore. As someone who enjoys Ghibli's works, I usually appreciate references and homages, but here I occasionally found myself wondering where the line lies between inspiration and adaptation. Rather than discovering a world that felt entirely its own, I was often reminded of works that seemed to have inspired it. Other readers may not find this distracting, but for me, the comparisons became difficult to overlook.
Overall, the book is filled with imaginative ideas, charming creatures, delicious food, and meaningful cultural influences. It succeeds in creating moments of warmth and wonder, particularly through its healing café concept and distinctly Malaysian-inspired elements. Conversely, it also feels constrained by its novella format. Many of its most interesting concepts—its worldbuilding, creature lore, and character dynamics—deserve far more space than they receive.
While I admire the creativity behind the story, I ultimately found the execution lacking. Had this been expanded into a full-length novel, I believe it could have been a much richer and more memorable reading experience. Regardless, I still find myself enjoying this and finished in just a sitting which ought to say something! All and above, I do think Nadiah Zakaria is a promising author, and this experience certainly hasn't put me off her work. If I get the chance to read another one of her books in the future, I'd be more than happy to give it a try. :)
June 7, 2026
Love love love ! That's what I can say 🥰 a cafe, coffees, local desserts- kuih lapis, banana cake, bingka ubi, friendship and creatures ! There's phoenix, llamas, toad, bunny, papercrane, moles, snails and there's more that I can list here.
I finished the novella felt contented. Marla being the one everyone relied on (I can relate so much) without no one for her. This book portrayed everyday struggles, grieves and friendships conflict that everyone can relate to. That's not the end of the world. Allah is truly kind. We'll have our happiness when we choose to have one. This is an ordinary story that happens maybe to the majority of us, with magical twist. I wish we have those creatures in real life haha.
I think there's no need for me to tell the synopis of the novella here hihi. Check it out, ok 🥰 congratulations @nadiahzkr ! 💕
I finished the novella felt contented. Marla being the one everyone relied on (I can relate so much) without no one for her. This book portrayed everyday struggles, grieves and friendships conflict that everyone can relate to. That's not the end of the world. Allah is truly kind. We'll have our happiness when we choose to have one. This is an ordinary story that happens maybe to the majority of us, with magical twist. I wish we have those creatures in real life haha.
I think there's no need for me to tell the synopis of the novella here hihi. Check it out, ok 🥰 congratulations @nadiahzkr ! 💕
June 2, 2026
don’t be fooled with the cute cosy cover. nadiah zakaria unpacks a whole lot of emotions in this one. my favourite part about nadiah’s writing is the layers and depths of the stories, and in the creature keepers we can still see this. i bet i’ll reread and experience the reading journey in a whole different way
May 15, 2026
The Creatures Keeper by Nadiah Zakaria tells the story of Marla, an orphan who takes over her parents' cafe after their death. The cafe is not an ordinary cafe. The pastries and ‘kuih’ served at the cafe have special properties that can heal sick creatures.
On the surface, this book appeared as a cosy, whimsical and charming fantasy. However, as we go deeper into the story, I feel the cosy set-up is a mask, just like the mask that Marla put on when she welcomed customers into her cafe. The story touches on one’s emotional and mental well-being. How a person who seems fine, is battling a battle that we can’t see or even refuse to see.
In this story, Marla is struggling by herself. She was still grieving the death of her parents but had to act tough and move on with life. The villagers come to Creatures Keeper to find a cure and comfort for their creatures and themselves, but they can’t seem to see that Marla herself needs comfort and attention. She was screaming inside, but it felt like her voice couldn’t reach the people around her. Even Brennan, who is close to Marla oblivious to Marla’s crying for help. That is until Bakti, a boy from the place that Marla despised most, came to seek Marla’s help. Marla, who is like a ticking time bomb, exploded, and all her trouble and grievances spilt.
I have trouble writing a review for this novella. When I start reading the book, I’m enjoying the cosiness and whimsical setting. I love Fantastic Beasts, and this story reminded me of it. But as I read further, I feel like something is crushing on my heart. I know we all have our own struggles and are battling something that only we know. We want to keep it to ourselves, but at the same time, we want to be seen. We want to be heard, but at the same time, not judged. We want to live, but also gone so the pain is no more. We hide our struggle with a smile on our faces, and hope tomorrow will be either better or tomorrow will be our end.
As I reached the end of the story, the heaviness I felt lifted a little. I’m glad things turned out the best for Marla. Her ending gave hope that all is not lost.
On the surface, this book appeared as a cosy, whimsical and charming fantasy. However, as we go deeper into the story, I feel the cosy set-up is a mask, just like the mask that Marla put on when she welcomed customers into her cafe. The story touches on one’s emotional and mental well-being. How a person who seems fine, is battling a battle that we can’t see or even refuse to see.
In this story, Marla is struggling by herself. She was still grieving the death of her parents but had to act tough and move on with life. The villagers come to Creatures Keeper to find a cure and comfort for their creatures and themselves, but they can’t seem to see that Marla herself needs comfort and attention. She was screaming inside, but it felt like her voice couldn’t reach the people around her. Even Brennan, who is close to Marla oblivious to Marla’s crying for help. That is until Bakti, a boy from the place that Marla despised most, came to seek Marla’s help. Marla, who is like a ticking time bomb, exploded, and all her trouble and grievances spilt.
I have trouble writing a review for this novella. When I start reading the book, I’m enjoying the cosiness and whimsical setting. I love Fantastic Beasts, and this story reminded me of it. But as I read further, I feel like something is crushing on my heart. I know we all have our own struggles and are battling something that only we know. We want to keep it to ourselves, but at the same time, we want to be seen. We want to be heard, but at the same time, not judged. We want to live, but also gone so the pain is no more. We hide our struggle with a smile on our faces, and hope tomorrow will be either better or tomorrow will be our end.
As I reached the end of the story, the heaviness I felt lifted a little. I’m glad things turned out the best for Marla. Her ending gave hope that all is not lost.
April 19, 2026
can i pet that dawg
May 15, 2026
I love that Nadiah proves she has nothing against happy endings 🫶🏼
April 24, 2026
whatever nadiah writes, I'll eat it up, eat it eat it up. i beta read this twice, so I'm gonna count it idc. proper review once I've read the final piece <3
June 16, 2026
3.5/5
reading this made me crave seri muka
also marla deserved to be angrier, and brennan can go choke
the creature keeper's is another one of the author's wonderful novellas with inspirations from ghibli movies and fantastic beasts. however, just bcs this is a cottagecore cozy fantasy with cute fantastical creatures (i want some dust bunnies of my ownnn) does not mean there isn't something a little darker underneath.
honestly, with how short the book is, i really enjoyed how the world of tembaga was displayed to show how a society with mythical creatures would function, and we get a glimpse of what marla's day to day looks like (before it all got turned for the worst).
the only downside i wasn't the biggest fan of was the characters. aside from marla, the rest of the character i think could've been more fleshed out, though i understand that that's one of the downsides of a novella. bakti annoyed me so bad when he came in and started messing up the shop, and brennan made marla feel bad bcs she didn't want to help him? okay and so what its HER shop. marla is deserves rest bcs she shoudln't have to shoulder all of the shop on her own. also i did not like brennan. yes he did own up to his own shortcomings and had character development and he IS a teenager but i still don't like him. even when he was apologising to marla it was a lot of "i i i, me me me," like bro why are u centering yourself during someone's lowest point. maybe there's something unhealed in me who knows~
anyway. i really liked reading this. short and sweet and wow im gonna go find some buah melaka.
reading this made me crave seri muka
also marla deserved to be angrier, and brennan can go choke
the creature keeper's is another one of the author's wonderful novellas with inspirations from ghibli movies and fantastic beasts. however, just bcs this is a cottagecore cozy fantasy with cute fantastical creatures (i want some dust bunnies of my ownnn) does not mean there isn't something a little darker underneath.
honestly, with how short the book is, i really enjoyed how the world of tembaga was displayed to show how a society with mythical creatures would function, and we get a glimpse of what marla's day to day looks like (before it all got turned for the worst).
the only downside i wasn't the biggest fan of was the characters. aside from marla, the rest of the character i think could've been more fleshed out, though i understand that that's one of the downsides of a novella. bakti annoyed me so bad when he came in and started messing up the shop, and brennan made marla feel bad bcs she didn't want to help him? okay and so what its HER shop. marla is deserves rest bcs she shoudln't have to shoulder all of the shop on her own. also i did not like brennan. yes he did own up to his own shortcomings and had character development and he IS a teenager but i still don't like him. even when he was apologising to marla it was a lot of "i i i, me me me," like bro why are u centering yourself during someone's lowest point. maybe there's something unhealed in me who knows~
anyway. i really liked reading this. short and sweet and wow im gonna go find some buah melaka.
May 24, 2026
“the creature keeper’s coffee club” needs to be a sequel i think this is my fav nadiah book to date!!?? I LOVE THE COZY
July 14, 2026
Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐.5
What if the place you least expected to belong became the place that helped you discover the parts of yourself you had been avoiding?
The Creature Keepers may appear as a cosy tale of a magical coffee shop and mythical creatures, but beneath its comforting atmosphere lies a deeper exploration of silent grief, hidden wounds, and difficult truths we sometimes wish we never had to face.
At the heart of this book is Marla, a sixteen-year-old girl who inherited a small coffee shop called The Creature Keepers after her parents passed away when she was little. Together with her pet creatures, she bakes magical pastries and kuih that can heal creatures suffering from illnesses. One day, she receives a letter from a mysterious boy named Bakti, who seeks her help in finding a remedy for his sick pet mole. The downside? He comes from Sri Perak, the town Marla despises the most. Bakti’s arrival to The Creature Keepers gradually unfolds a hidden side of Marla that she has long buried from everyone, including her closest friends, Brennan and Ivy.
I found the book’s atmosphere incredibly charming, which was the setup of a magical coffee shop nestled in a peaceful town where mythical creatures quietly coexist with humans. It felt as if magic was truly an ordinary part of everyday life. I also loved the inclusion of Malaysian kuih as part of the story. Usually, fantasy would use Western imagery that was more familiar to English readers, so it felt refreshing to read about a world rooted in distinctly Malaysian experiences. Rather than treating culture as ornamental, it naturally weaves into the narrative, making the magical elements feel even closer to home.
Another aspect I particularly admired was the thoughtful portrayal of grief and tragedy. While there are slightly brief moments of violence, the book focuses more on the unspoken space that loss leaves behind. This space is filled with forgotten memories and restrained longing that naturally shapes Marla's personality as she navigates a tough phase. By taking this approach, the book allows younger readers to engage with difficult emotions without relying on gruesome scenes, letting sorrow exist alongside warmth, empathy, and hope.
I do, however, think Bakti’s arc could have been further developed. At first, I assumed his background would play a much larger role in the central conflict. When reaching the resolution, his storyline drifts away from the original plot despite his importance to Marla’s relationship with Brennan. As a result, Marla and Bakti’s relationship, which seemed destined to become the strongest emotional thread, never fully reached its potential. The book also hints at a much larger world beyond Tembaga. The legacy of Bakti’s family, The Clockmakers and the history of their town, Sri Perak, eventually left me with many questions. To what extent did The Clockmakers shape the lives of their townspeople? Was the divide between Sri Perak and Belukar simply a difference in values, or was there a deeper political history behind it? There could be a much richer mythology arc, but given the novella’s length, I understand that simplicity was relevant to ensure Marla’s personal journey was focused instead.
Overall, The Creature Keepers is a delightful read if you enjoy cosy fantasy, character-driven stories, and found family. It is also an accessible read for younger audiences, or for anyone looking to curl up with a comforting book and finish it in a single afternoon.
What if the place you least expected to belong became the place that helped you discover the parts of yourself you had been avoiding?
The Creature Keepers may appear as a cosy tale of a magical coffee shop and mythical creatures, but beneath its comforting atmosphere lies a deeper exploration of silent grief, hidden wounds, and difficult truths we sometimes wish we never had to face.
At the heart of this book is Marla, a sixteen-year-old girl who inherited a small coffee shop called The Creature Keepers after her parents passed away when she was little. Together with her pet creatures, she bakes magical pastries and kuih that can heal creatures suffering from illnesses. One day, she receives a letter from a mysterious boy named Bakti, who seeks her help in finding a remedy for his sick pet mole. The downside? He comes from Sri Perak, the town Marla despises the most. Bakti’s arrival to The Creature Keepers gradually unfolds a hidden side of Marla that she has long buried from everyone, including her closest friends, Brennan and Ivy.
I found the book’s atmosphere incredibly charming, which was the setup of a magical coffee shop nestled in a peaceful town where mythical creatures quietly coexist with humans. It felt as if magic was truly an ordinary part of everyday life. I also loved the inclusion of Malaysian kuih as part of the story. Usually, fantasy would use Western imagery that was more familiar to English readers, so it felt refreshing to read about a world rooted in distinctly Malaysian experiences. Rather than treating culture as ornamental, it naturally weaves into the narrative, making the magical elements feel even closer to home.
Another aspect I particularly admired was the thoughtful portrayal of grief and tragedy. While there are slightly brief moments of violence, the book focuses more on the unspoken space that loss leaves behind. This space is filled with forgotten memories and restrained longing that naturally shapes Marla's personality as she navigates a tough phase. By taking this approach, the book allows younger readers to engage with difficult emotions without relying on gruesome scenes, letting sorrow exist alongside warmth, empathy, and hope.
I do, however, think Bakti’s arc could have been further developed. At first, I assumed his background would play a much larger role in the central conflict. When reaching the resolution, his storyline drifts away from the original plot despite his importance to Marla’s relationship with Brennan. As a result, Marla and Bakti’s relationship, which seemed destined to become the strongest emotional thread, never fully reached its potential. The book also hints at a much larger world beyond Tembaga. The legacy of Bakti’s family, The Clockmakers and the history of their town, Sri Perak, eventually left me with many questions. To what extent did The Clockmakers shape the lives of their townspeople? Was the divide between Sri Perak and Belukar simply a difference in values, or was there a deeper political history behind it? There could be a much richer mythology arc, but given the novella’s length, I understand that simplicity was relevant to ensure Marla’s personal journey was focused instead.
Overall, The Creature Keepers is a delightful read if you enjoy cosy fantasy, character-driven stories, and found family. It is also an accessible read for younger audiences, or for anyone looking to curl up with a comforting book and finish it in a single afternoon.
June 4, 2026
The novel unfolds in a cozy coffee shop run by Marla Puspawangi. On the surface, everything thrives on routine: Marla keeps the café running with the help of her magical creatures, & every item on her menu, from steaming cups of tea to delicate kuih, is crafted to treat creatures suffering from a variety of ailments. It's a charming premise that immediately reminded me of Fantastic Beasts, with reimagined creatures woven seamlessly into everyday Malaysian life. Beneath that warmth however, Marla carries childhood wounds that no one around her seems to notice. The story begins to stir when Bakti stumbles into her world. His creature suffers from a strange flu that stops time whenever it sneezes. Unbeknownst to Bakti, his search for an affordable healer uncovers Marla's long-buried memories and past trauma. What begins as a simple quest for a cure gradually becomes something far more profound.
The creatures are wonderfully vivid & whimsical, & I especially loved how Nadiah weaves traditional Malay kuih into the narrative as a form of healing. Recipes passed down through generations carry the weight of memory, love, & inheritance in every layer of kuih lapis & every swirl of pandan custard. The novel offers a beautiful metaphor for the way we process childhood trauma: not through a single magical cure, but by nourishing ourselves back to wholeness through the care, traditions, & people who came before us & continue to remain by our side.
At its heart though, this novel is about how healing should never be a solitary endeavor. Marla is the kind of person who would rather bury her emotions beneath daily routines & suffer in silence than speak of her pain, because sometimes pain can't be simply translated into words & shared with others. Watching her gradually learn to reach out & open up struck a deep chord with me. The story suggests that while ancestral remedies can ground us, true recovery happens in community, among friends who notice our fractures & choose to stay. There's no grand enchantment that erases every hurt. Instead, it's this honesty that makes the novel linger long after it ends. What remains is not the magic but the messy, imperfect humanity shared over a plate of food. It's a heartfelt reminder that we heal best not in isolation, but together, with coffee & kuih, open hearts, & the stories passed from one generation to the next.
The creatures are wonderfully vivid & whimsical, & I especially loved how Nadiah weaves traditional Malay kuih into the narrative as a form of healing. Recipes passed down through generations carry the weight of memory, love, & inheritance in every layer of kuih lapis & every swirl of pandan custard. The novel offers a beautiful metaphor for the way we process childhood trauma: not through a single magical cure, but by nourishing ourselves back to wholeness through the care, traditions, & people who came before us & continue to remain by our side.
At its heart though, this novel is about how healing should never be a solitary endeavor. Marla is the kind of person who would rather bury her emotions beneath daily routines & suffer in silence than speak of her pain, because sometimes pain can't be simply translated into words & shared with others. Watching her gradually learn to reach out & open up struck a deep chord with me. The story suggests that while ancestral remedies can ground us, true recovery happens in community, among friends who notice our fractures & choose to stay. There's no grand enchantment that erases every hurt. Instead, it's this honesty that makes the novel linger long after it ends. What remains is not the magic but the messy, imperfect humanity shared over a plate of food. It's a heartfelt reminder that we heal best not in isolation, but together, with coffee & kuih, open hearts, & the stories passed from one generation to the next.
May 23, 2026
I never thought I would see Nadiah Zakaria writing cozy fantasy, but here we are! You really should never say never because you don’t know what life leads you to.
The Creature Keepers is a short, 128 pages young adult cozy fantasy story that you could finish in one sitting. Perferably during lunch or dinner, so you wouldn’t go craving kuih keria, kuih lapis, or even a slice of bengkang ubi.
The story explores a fictional world where humans have magical pets and Marla is the sole owner of Creature Keepers, a coffeeshop situated in the outskirt of fictional town Belukar that serves healing foods and drinks she inherited from her parents at the tender age of thirteen. I think it’s a reccuring theme on Nadiah Zakaria’s books to have main characters with such young age and the heavy burden of responsibility on their shoulders. Gee, Nadiah, those shoulders could break!
Honestly, because the book is only 128 pages, I feel the story is quite rushed. It feels like there are so many questions left unanswered, and it makes the whole plot not tied tightly together. There are so much to explore from the worldbuilding alone. Maybe because I’m used reading longer stories and more elaborate worldbuilding, short stories like this feels unfamiliar and not enough (I am greedy, sue me).
But, I will give Nadiah credit for writing characters that you can relate even if you’re not living in magical world. Grief works in silence and often times people hide it to move on. Nadiah perfectly potrays how this silence grief became a ticking bomb and how people can be so oblivious to this silent grief until it was too late.
For overall ratings, I will give The Creature Keepers a 3.5/5 stars (4 since Goodreads don’t recognize decimals). The storyline is very interesting and every characters stand out perfectly. I love the dynamics between the characters and the banters between Marla and Brennan is very real (If you happens to see me back home, that is how I banter with my baristas). And while the writing is very beautiful and easy to read, the story’s pace is still too fast for me. I really hope the worldbuilding and the plot itself was explored a little bit more.
This book is perfect for those who want a quick read in between busy schedules, during commutes, or just want something light in between heavy topic books.
The Creature Keepers is a short, 128 pages young adult cozy fantasy story that you could finish in one sitting. Perferably during lunch or dinner, so you wouldn’t go craving kuih keria, kuih lapis, or even a slice of bengkang ubi.
The story explores a fictional world where humans have magical pets and Marla is the sole owner of Creature Keepers, a coffeeshop situated in the outskirt of fictional town Belukar that serves healing foods and drinks she inherited from her parents at the tender age of thirteen. I think it’s a reccuring theme on Nadiah Zakaria’s books to have main characters with such young age and the heavy burden of responsibility on their shoulders. Gee, Nadiah, those shoulders could break!
Honestly, because the book is only 128 pages, I feel the story is quite rushed. It feels like there are so many questions left unanswered, and it makes the whole plot not tied tightly together. There are so much to explore from the worldbuilding alone. Maybe because I’m used reading longer stories and more elaborate worldbuilding, short stories like this feels unfamiliar and not enough (I am greedy, sue me).
But, I will give Nadiah credit for writing characters that you can relate even if you’re not living in magical world. Grief works in silence and often times people hide it to move on. Nadiah perfectly potrays how this silence grief became a ticking bomb and how people can be so oblivious to this silent grief until it was too late.
For overall ratings, I will give The Creature Keepers a 3.5/5 stars (4 since Goodreads don’t recognize decimals). The storyline is very interesting and every characters stand out perfectly. I love the dynamics between the characters and the banters between Marla and Brennan is very real (If you happens to see me back home, that is how I banter with my baristas). And while the writing is very beautiful and easy to read, the story’s pace is still too fast for me. I really hope the worldbuilding and the plot itself was explored a little bit more.
This book is perfect for those who want a quick read in between busy schedules, during commutes, or just want something light in between heavy topic books.
June 6, 2026
First of all, the cover is very captivating. La-wow betul!
Second of all, stories written by Nadiah Zakaria never disappoint. This book healed my reading slump. Just like Bane of Widuri which was written by the same author, The Creature Keepers left me amazed by the world she created. Belukar and Sri Perak feel truly magical—a blend of Harry Potter, Spirited Away, and Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop.
In this novella, Marla Puspawangi (I absolutely adore the classic name "Puspawangi"!) runs a coffee shop that serves local kuih with healing properties for magical creatures suffering from various ailments. Marla has also lost both of her parents. Everyone around her seems to assume that she is coping well, but she isn't. She carries burdens that others often overlook, and she deserves rest too. Reading her story reminded me of doctors in government hospitals, single parents, and delivery drivers—people who constantly put the needs of others before their own.
Marla's opposite is Brennan. The author describes him as "traitorous and ignorant. All he cared about was Sri Perak (the modern part of the country) and his silly dreams." Brennan is full of ideas and ambitions, and he expects Marla to help bring them to life, often forgetting that she has limits of her own. In some ways, he reminded me of myself. There are times when I become so focused on my own goals that I fail to consider the people around me.
Throughout the story, Marla learns to slow down, while Brennan learns to become more considerate and sensitive towards others. Their journeys are connected by Bakti and his creature, Kip, who help bridge the gap between them.
The Creature Keepers is more than just a charming fantasy novella. Its characters feel deeply human, and chances are you'll recognize a part of yourself in one of them. While reading, I also noticed subtle political undertones in the tension between rural Belukar and modern Sri Perak. I found myself imagining Belukar as Kedah or Kelantan, while Sri Perak felt more like Kuala Lumpur or Johor—a contrast between tradition and modernity that adds another layer to the story.
Second of all, stories written by Nadiah Zakaria never disappoint. This book healed my reading slump. Just like Bane of Widuri which was written by the same author, The Creature Keepers left me amazed by the world she created. Belukar and Sri Perak feel truly magical—a blend of Harry Potter, Spirited Away, and Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop.
In this novella, Marla Puspawangi (I absolutely adore the classic name "Puspawangi"!) runs a coffee shop that serves local kuih with healing properties for magical creatures suffering from various ailments. Marla has also lost both of her parents. Everyone around her seems to assume that she is coping well, but she isn't. She carries burdens that others often overlook, and she deserves rest too. Reading her story reminded me of doctors in government hospitals, single parents, and delivery drivers—people who constantly put the needs of others before their own.
Marla's opposite is Brennan. The author describes him as "traitorous and ignorant. All he cared about was Sri Perak (the modern part of the country) and his silly dreams." Brennan is full of ideas and ambitions, and he expects Marla to help bring them to life, often forgetting that she has limits of her own. In some ways, he reminded me of myself. There are times when I become so focused on my own goals that I fail to consider the people around me.
Throughout the story, Marla learns to slow down, while Brennan learns to become more considerate and sensitive towards others. Their journeys are connected by Bakti and his creature, Kip, who help bridge the gap between them.
The Creature Keepers is more than just a charming fantasy novella. Its characters feel deeply human, and chances are you'll recognize a part of yourself in one of them. While reading, I also noticed subtle political undertones in the tension between rural Belukar and modern Sri Perak. I found myself imagining Belukar as Kedah or Kelantan, while Sri Perak felt more like Kuala Lumpur or Johor—a contrast between tradition and modernity that adds another layer to the story.
June 23, 2026
My four-year-old daughter picked up this book because of the cover and asked me to read it for her as her bedtime story.
Starting off strong, this book gives that cozy, warm and feels like a hug feeling. However I do find this book to be lacking and underdeveloped and I wish this book could be longer to see its full potential. The main character, Marla clearly has some anger issues and even when her anger is justified, reading it gives unpleasant feelings. I also thought the ending is a bit rushed.
Overall, pick this up if you want an easy read, and be prepared to drool over all the Malaysian food references.
April 28, 2026
Loved the concept and the colourful imagery throughout my read. It was giving Fantastic Beasts Coffee Shop vibes throughout but I needed MORE *sobs*. Some parts felt a little bumpy — like are we reading Marla’s POV or Brennan’s or Bakti..? And I kept on looking forward to reading in depth on the characters’ backstories because their stories felt like they were a little hanging. Nevertheless, I truly enjoyed it — loved the happy ending from Nadiah, and for a novella, it was an easy and fun read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2026
No hate on the author at all coz I love her Bane Of Widuri book so much. This one just turns out to be a bit of a let down due to expectations!
So, the book is marketed as a cozy fantasy as the settings does scream that genre but somehow the tone I get doesn’t matched it. It felt like full of angst, sighs, prejudice, anxiety and loneliness. Only the last 5 pages or so screams cozy. Like where’s the slow morning cafe vibes, the calmness with the creatures, the warmth community? It just felt off throughout the book.
So, the book is marketed as a cozy fantasy as the settings does scream that genre but somehow the tone I get doesn’t matched it. It felt like full of angst, sighs, prejudice, anxiety and loneliness. Only the last 5 pages or so screams cozy. Like where’s the slow morning cafe vibes, the calmness with the creatures, the warmth community? It just felt off throughout the book.
July 17, 2026
Classic Nadiah Zakaria's book. Cute at the front, then suddenly bammm trauma dump.
It starts with a slow, whimsical day of Marla opening her cafe, but there's always a hint of loneliness. Until Bakti came to her cafe, chaos happened. Brennan ohh Brennan. Damn, he pissed me off, but luckily, he knows how to be a gentleman and apologised profusely for his ignorance.
Since it's a novella, some parts don't make sense, and it feels like there are missing parts in it. Overall, it's still a good read!
It starts with a slow, whimsical day of Marla opening her cafe, but there's always a hint of loneliness. Until Bakti came to her cafe, chaos happened. Brennan ohh Brennan. Damn, he pissed me off, but luckily, he knows how to be a gentleman and apologised profusely for his ignorance.
Since it's a novella, some parts don't make sense, and it feels like there are missing parts in it. Overall, it's still a good read!
April 21, 2026
Cerita yang lain daripada yang lain, sangat fresh. Kedai kopi yang menghidangkan kopi, kuih dan kek tradisional untuk merawat haiwan² magikal daripada penyakit yg mereka hadapi.
Pembacaan yang ringan tapi ada pesanan dan tauladan.
Cuma terkadang tu tak terbayang dek mata betapa magikalnya seekor haiwan tu sampai bole berubah bentuk mengikut keadaan. Atau mungkin saya yang tak faham sangat dengan penulisan bahasa Inggeris.
Tahniah penulis untuk buku yang bagus ini 👍🏻
Pembacaan yang ringan tapi ada pesanan dan tauladan.
Cuma terkadang tu tak terbayang dek mata betapa magikalnya seekor haiwan tu sampai bole berubah bentuk mengikut keadaan. Atau mungkin saya yang tak faham sangat dengan penulisan bahasa Inggeris.
Tahniah penulis untuk buku yang bagus ini 👍🏻
April 29, 2026
A very heartwarming story. Very cute. Worth picking up for something cozy and relaxing. There's a very important message, one that I think everyone needs to hear.
Overall, amaze amaze amaze.
Playlist rec:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5L4... (shuffled)
Overall, amaze amaze amaze.
Playlist rec:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5L4... (shuffled)
July 12, 2026
This is my first time reading one of nadiah zakaria's book. I've been following her on social media for quite while and love how she talk about books so I decided to give a try of her book. I love how magical, whimsical the story is. And most importantly is that she included all the traditional kuih also! I do enjoyed reading this, need to read more of her books ❤️
July 19, 2026
I love the settings in this story and the vibes the author is giving.However, I think this book should be more longer cause the way it build up from the beginning is so good but after that chaos event happened, the story sort of slowly lost and the ending is quite rush.It is like watching kisah Benar in one episode.🥲
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2026
Nadiah zakaria books never dissapoints me. The setup with the vibe of Kiki’s Delivery service and should i say Harry Potter makes my inner child imagination go wild.
I would never give up on Nadiah’s writing. Love it! 💯
I would never give up on Nadiah’s writing. Love it! 💯
June 8, 2026
Nadiah usually famous with dark fantasy horror but this is a very decent book even with mediocre storyline. The essence of magic and fantasy is well described in the book. Overall i enjoy this book but i need darker storyline.
April 29, 2026
it was my fault thinking that this was a super cute cozy story 😭😭😭
instead it was a super adorable heart wrenching and stabbing me all the way 🫠
instead it was a super adorable heart wrenching and stabbing me all the way 🫠
May 21, 2026
I was high as a kite when i read this book. And sooo hungry omg all the foods in this book😭😭😭
Btw id like it more if ada backstory on Bakri
Btw id like it more if ada backstory on Bakri
May 29, 2026
Honestly it’s really good and I can see this being turned into an animated film one day.
June 23, 2026
This would've been so amazing if expanded into full length novel
Is it weird that I want this cafe to exist so I can eat all of the food. I drooled as I read.
Is it weird that I want this cafe to exist so I can eat all of the food. I drooled as I read.
June 26, 2026
Easy 5 stars !
July 2, 2026
3.75/5⭐
July 6, 2026
Love it! Wish there are more books about life in Belukar and Sri Perak
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