Book review: Days at the Morisaki Bookshop Satoshi Yagisawa , Eric Ozawa (Translator)

 Rating: ★★★★ 4 star read

*Days at the Morisaki Bookshop* is a heartwarming and reflective novel that beautifully explores themes of family, love, and personal growth, all through the lens of a woman-centered narrative. The writing style is refreshingly simple and easy to follow, making it the perfect book to break a reading slump. The pacing and prose are gentle, inviting you to relax and immerse yourself in the story without feeling overwhelmed.

At its core, this book is about Takako's evolving relationship with her uncle, Saturo. Their bond is tender and deeply familial, almost like a father-daughter connection. I absolutely adored the sweetness of their relationship, especially in the first half of the book, which is filled with warmth and moments of quiet joy. It's the kind of familial bond that makes you feel cozy and reassured.

However, the second half of the novel takes a bit of a turn when Saturo's wife, Momoko, returns after a five-year absence. Her unexplained departure initially left me feeling conflicted. Her reasons for leaving were heartbreaking, yet I couldn't help but feel frustrated by the lack of communication in her marriage with Saturo. This part of the book sheds light on the isolation that can arise in a relationship when unresolved issues fester. The portrayal of their struggles felt real, almost painfully so, and it was hard not to sympathize with both characters. It’s a story about the silent pain that sometimes lurks in marital relationships, reminding us how essential open communication is.

Despite the tension and heartbreak, the book concludes on a hopeful note. It may not tie up every loose end, but the resolution feels fitting and offers a sense of healing, not just for the characters but for the reader as well.

*Days at the Morisaki Bookshop* is an excellent read in many ways. It beautifully captures the healing power of books, the intricacies of familial relationships, and the complexities of marriage. Though it’s not without its emotional hurdles, the story leaves you with a sense of peace and understanding. I would give it a solid 4-star rating, especially for those who appreciate stories about relationships that heal and the quiet power of personal growth.


Get your copy of the book at Indigo or Amazon