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What You Are Looking For Is in the Library
For fans of The Midnight Library and Before the Coffee Gets Cold, this charming Japanese novel shows how the perfect book recommendation can change a reader's life.
What are you looking for?
This is the famous question routinely asked by Tokyo’s most enigmatic librarian, Sayuri Komachi. Like most librarians, Komachi has read every book lining her shelves—but she also has the unique ability to read the souls of her library guests. For anyone who walks through her door, Komachi can sense exactly what they’re looking for in life and provide just the book recommendation they never knew they needed to help them find it.
Each visitor comes to her library from a different juncture in their careers and dreams, from the restless sales attendant who feels stuck at her job to the struggling working mother who longs to be a magazine editor. The conversation that they have with Sayuri Komachi—and the surprise book she lends each of them—will have life-altering consequences.
With heartwarming charm and wisdom, What You Are Looking For Is in the Library is a paean to the magic of libraries, friendship and community, perfect for anyone who has ever found themselves at an impasse in their life and in need of a little inspiration.
What are you looking for?
This is the famous question routinely asked by Tokyo’s most enigmatic librarian, Sayuri Komachi. Like most librarians, Komachi has read every book lining her shelves—but she also has the unique ability to read the souls of her library guests. For anyone who walks through her door, Komachi can sense exactly what they’re looking for in life and provide just the book recommendation they never knew they needed to help them find it.
Each visitor comes to her library from a different juncture in their careers and dreams, from the restless sales attendant who feels stuck at her job to the struggling working mother who longs to be a magazine editor. The conversation that they have with Sayuri Komachi—and the surprise book she lends each of them—will have life-altering consequences.
With heartwarming charm and wisdom, What You Are Looking For Is in the Library is a paean to the magic of libraries, friendship and community, perfect for anyone who has ever found themselves at an impasse in their life and in need of a little inspiration.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published November 9, 2020
About the author
Michiko Aoyama
18 books617 followersMichiko Aoyama was born in 1970 in Aichi Prefecture, Honshu, Japan. After university, she became a reporter for a Japanese newspaper based in Sydney before moving back to Japan to work as a magazine editor in Tokyo. What You are Looking for is in the Library was shortlisted for the Japan Booksellers' Award and became a Japanese bestseller. It is being translated into more than fifteen languages. She lives in Yokohama, Japan.
青山 美智子 Japanese name
青山美智子 Chinese name
青山 美智子 Japanese name
青山美智子 Chinese name
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 10,017 reviews
April 23, 2024
this is always true.
this book is like a smile prescription. one that like...anyone can take. almost no side effects. simple language. lots of repetition. makes you feel like any problem can be solved by a strange librarian unendingly described by her weight and 1-2 books.
anyway. in spite of that, it's pretty charming.
i find that a lot of book club fiction is actually just a book that starts off sad and ends with hope: a new job, a new potential date, whatever.
this is like 5 of those in one, with 5 different characters entering the library and coming out with books that inspire them. it's very simplistic, sometimes overly so, but is just so cheerful. i enjoyed it.
bottom line: libraries are the best.
this book is like a smile prescription. one that like...anyone can take. almost no side effects. simple language. lots of repetition. makes you feel like any problem can be solved by a strange librarian unendingly described by her weight and 1-2 books.
anyway. in spite of that, it's pretty charming.
i find that a lot of book club fiction is actually just a book that starts off sad and ends with hope: a new job, a new potential date, whatever.
this is like 5 of those in one, with 5 different characters entering the library and coming out with books that inspire them. it's very simplistic, sometimes overly so, but is just so cheerful. i enjoyed it.
bottom line: libraries are the best.
September 8, 2023
4.5⭐️
Librarian Sayuri Komachi greets all visitors at the library at Hatori Community House with this simple question, the answer to which doesn’t always come easily to the person to whom the question is directed.
“What are you looking for?”
Along with her recommendations, she adds a title that is seemingly unrelated to the patron’s query. She also adds a handmade ”bonus gift” to her patrons, that strangely resonates with the person on a deeply personal level.
“Life is one revelation after another. Things don’t always go to plan, no matter what your circumstances. But the flip side is all the unexpected, wonderful things that you could never have imagined happening. Ultimately it’s all for the best that many things don’t turn out the way we hoped. Try not to think of upset plans or schedules as personal failure or bad luck. If you can do that, then you can change, in your own self and in your life overall.”
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama (translated by Alison Watts) follows the stories of five such people, each of whom is searching for a purpose or a new direction in life. A twenty-one-year-old sales assistant feels stagnated in her career and is unable to find value in her work-life, a thirty-five-year-old accountant feels trapped in his regular job but hesitates to sacrifice stable employment in the interest of pursuing his passion for antiques as a career; an unemployed thirty-year-old aspiring illustrator is consumed by thoughts of his unfulfilled dreams to be an artist; a forty-year-old former magazine editor transferred to an unfulfilling but less demanding position after returning from maternity leave struggles with her need to branch out while maintaining a work-home balance and finally a recent retiree who questions his worth in society. After a life devoted to his career. Each of these characters, though at different junctures in life, is plagued by feelings of self-doubt and insecurity, but Ms. Komachi’s helpful suggestions prove to be profoundly impactful.
Through these five interconnected stories, the author explores the need for human connection, friendship, community and above all, the fact that change and personal growth are possible at every stage in life. This short novel is an ode to the role of libraries, librarians and the transformative power of books. How books enable readers to gain perspective and inspire clarity of thought and personal change is an underlying theme in this novel. I do wish we had gotten to know a bit more about the kind and perceptive librarian Ms. Komachi, which is my only complaint.
“Readers make their own personal connections to words, irrespective of the writer’s intentions, and each reader gains something unique.”
Beautifully written in simple yet elegant prose, with realistic and well-thought-out characters and situations, insightful and inspiring, this is a sweet and heartwarming read. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and would not hesitate to recommend it to those who enjoy stories that revolve around libraries and the profound impact of books and reading on our lives.
Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the digital review copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Expected Date of Publication: September 5, 2023
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Librarian Sayuri Komachi greets all visitors at the library at Hatori Community House with this simple question, the answer to which doesn’t always come easily to the person to whom the question is directed.
“What are you looking for?”
Along with her recommendations, she adds a title that is seemingly unrelated to the patron’s query. She also adds a handmade ”bonus gift” to her patrons, that strangely resonates with the person on a deeply personal level.
“Life is one revelation after another. Things don’t always go to plan, no matter what your circumstances. But the flip side is all the unexpected, wonderful things that you could never have imagined happening. Ultimately it’s all for the best that many things don’t turn out the way we hoped. Try not to think of upset plans or schedules as personal failure or bad luck. If you can do that, then you can change, in your own self and in your life overall.”
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama (translated by Alison Watts) follows the stories of five such people, each of whom is searching for a purpose or a new direction in life. A twenty-one-year-old sales assistant feels stagnated in her career and is unable to find value in her work-life, a thirty-five-year-old accountant feels trapped in his regular job but hesitates to sacrifice stable employment in the interest of pursuing his passion for antiques as a career; an unemployed thirty-year-old aspiring illustrator is consumed by thoughts of his unfulfilled dreams to be an artist; a forty-year-old former magazine editor transferred to an unfulfilling but less demanding position after returning from maternity leave struggles with her need to branch out while maintaining a work-home balance and finally a recent retiree who questions his worth in society. After a life devoted to his career. Each of these characters, though at different junctures in life, is plagued by feelings of self-doubt and insecurity, but Ms. Komachi’s helpful suggestions prove to be profoundly impactful.
Through these five interconnected stories, the author explores the need for human connection, friendship, community and above all, the fact that change and personal growth are possible at every stage in life. This short novel is an ode to the role of libraries, librarians and the transformative power of books. How books enable readers to gain perspective and inspire clarity of thought and personal change is an underlying theme in this novel. I do wish we had gotten to know a bit more about the kind and perceptive librarian Ms. Komachi, which is my only complaint.
“Readers make their own personal connections to words, irrespective of the writer’s intentions, and each reader gains something unique.”
Beautifully written in simple yet elegant prose, with realistic and well-thought-out characters and situations, insightful and inspiring, this is a sweet and heartwarming read. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and would not hesitate to recommend it to those who enjoy stories that revolve around libraries and the profound impact of books and reading on our lives.
Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the digital review copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Expected Date of Publication: September 5, 2023
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
September 18, 2023
The book described sounds like a heartwarming and encouraging read.
I am particularly drawn to the character of Mrs. Komachi, the librarian who helps her patrons find their way forward.
She sounds like a wise and compassionate woman who recommended some books and little gifts for the visitors.
It is a reminder that we are all capable of great things.
We can all find support from others on our journey through life.
I am particularly drawn to the character of Mrs. Komachi, the librarian who helps her patrons find their way forward.
She sounds like a wise and compassionate woman who recommended some books and little gifts for the visitors.
It is a reminder that we are all capable of great things.
We can all find support from others on our journey through life.
December 5, 2023
It's December 5th, and I just finished my favorite book of the year.
I checked this book out of the library because of the title, and because I love books about books and libraries. Even so, I was prepared to be disappointed and return it unread if it didn't live up to its promise. It did, and I was charmed and intrigued from the start.
We get 6 stories, all about people of different ages and circumstances, but all of whom are distressed because they seem to have lost their way, or never found it, and are looking for some kind of change. A neighborhood community center which offers classes in various subjects is served by a library, with an unusual librarian who seems to know exactly what they are looking for, and gives them a list of books on their requested topic, but with one book that has nothing at all to do with anything remotely resembling what they asked for. Which of course turns out to be exactly what they needed.
How did she know? She didn't really, she just got them to expand their views by opening up their minds. The fun is in watching these people interpret the "strange book" in their own way and adapt its message to what they needed all along.
Mrs. Komachi: "Readers make their own personal connections to words, irrespective of the writer's intentions, and each reader gains something unique."
We readers also get the joy of making connections between each story with little nuggets of recognition between the characters as we go along. I feel like I could read this little book 5 or 6 times and get something new with each reading. That's why I'll take this back to the library, then buy my own copy when it comes out in paperback. And to take the advice of Masao:
"My plan is to appreciate every new day. And take a wide view of things."
I checked this book out of the library because of the title, and because I love books about books and libraries. Even so, I was prepared to be disappointed and return it unread if it didn't live up to its promise. It did, and I was charmed and intrigued from the start.
We get 6 stories, all about people of different ages and circumstances, but all of whom are distressed because they seem to have lost their way, or never found it, and are looking for some kind of change. A neighborhood community center which offers classes in various subjects is served by a library, with an unusual librarian who seems to know exactly what they are looking for, and gives them a list of books on their requested topic, but with one book that has nothing at all to do with anything remotely resembling what they asked for. Which of course turns out to be exactly what they needed.
How did she know? She didn't really, she just got them to expand their views by opening up their minds. The fun is in watching these people interpret the "strange book" in their own way and adapt its message to what they needed all along.
Mrs. Komachi: "Readers make their own personal connections to words, irrespective of the writer's intentions, and each reader gains something unique."
We readers also get the joy of making connections between each story with little nuggets of recognition between the characters as we go along. I feel like I could read this little book 5 or 6 times and get something new with each reading. That's why I'll take this back to the library, then buy my own copy when it comes out in paperback. And to take the advice of Masao:
"My plan is to appreciate every new day. And take a wide view of things."
August 8, 2023
An interesting and nicely written book about five different people who find their way to a rather special library at a time when they need help in their lives. Perhaps it is the Librarian who is really special because she gives each one a reading list with one book tagged on the end which seems outlandish. In fact it is the most important one as each person discovers.
I found it an enjoyable read with a pleasant Japanese atmosphere and some magic realism to help the characters improve their lives. Each character was nicely rounded. In fact only the Librarian was left partly undefined. Her physical description was detailed (and rather strange) but her background was hazy.
Altogether a good read and a happy way to pass a few hours. Four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I found it an enjoyable read with a pleasant Japanese atmosphere and some magic realism to help the characters improve their lives. Each character was nicely rounded. In fact only the Librarian was left partly undefined. Her physical description was detailed (and rather strange) but her background was hazy.
Altogether a good read and a happy way to pass a few hours. Four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 29, 2022
Cette lecture est arrivée au bon moment. J'avais vraiment besoin d'un feel good, sans prise de tête.
Les différentes histoires ne m'ont peut-être pas toutes autant touchée mais j'ai versé des larmes plus d'une fois...
Je me répète dans mes critiques sur des livres japonais mais vraiment, il y a quelque chose dans la littérature japonaise qui me touche et m'émeut. Une simplicité, une poésie, une attention sur les petites choses (mais aussi les grandes) de la vie.
Ici, j'ai particulièrement apprécié le fait qu'on voit des personnages d'âges différents, avec des vies très différentes. J'ai aimé retrouver chaque personnage dans les histoires des autres (même si c'était seulement une mention) et les petits liens entre eux.
Le livre aborde des thèmes que j'ai réellement appréciés : évidemment le thème principal du rêve, la vie après la retraite, trouver sa place dans la société, qu'est ce que la société finalement, la condition des femmes (on sent que le livre est écrit par une femme!)...
Je ressors de cette lecture pleine d'émotions et avec beaucoup d'espoir.
Les différentes histoires ne m'ont peut-être pas toutes autant touchée mais j'ai versé des larmes plus d'une fois...
Je me répète dans mes critiques sur des livres japonais mais vraiment, il y a quelque chose dans la littérature japonaise qui me touche et m'émeut. Une simplicité, une poésie, une attention sur les petites choses (mais aussi les grandes) de la vie.
Ici, j'ai particulièrement apprécié le fait qu'on voit des personnages d'âges différents, avec des vies très différentes. J'ai aimé retrouver chaque personnage dans les histoires des autres (même si c'était seulement une mention) et les petits liens entre eux.
Le livre aborde des thèmes que j'ai réellement appréciés : évidemment le thème principal du rêve, la vie après la retraite, trouver sa place dans la société, qu'est ce que la société finalement, la condition des femmes (on sent que le livre est écrit par une femme!)...
Je ressors de cette lecture pleine d'émotions et avec beaucoup d'espoir.
September 24, 2024
"The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library." Albert Einstein (1879-1955. Theoretical physicist)
She was directionless. A semi-colleague suggested the community house that provided near free classes which then led her to the library that was available to her for living in that part of the city.
And…That one visit, opened doors. Never could she have imagined the possibilities of what she was capable of creating for herself by revisiting a children’s book recommended by the librarian.
Especially when that wasn’t what she had asked for when she came in. She is also handed a gift by the librarian…
Which… At the time the gift is given doesn’t make sense.
But…As the story builds, the gift eventually becomes clear.
Nor…How the books or gift would affect her outlook on life and the people she interacted with in her life.
"Google can bring you back 100,000 answers, a librarian can bring you back the right one." Neil Gaiman (b. 1960. English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, audio theatre, and films)
And…That was just the beginning for this book of short stories, that showcased the impact libraries have on all of us.
Each story finds characters face-to-face with the same librarian, being asked what books they need…
And then…Being given a list that also includes a book that seems unrelated to what they thought they needed…
As well as a gift from the librarian that will soon make sense by the end of the story.
Each individual is transformed from their experience at the library.
The stories are simple, and yet…
Thoughtful and pleasing. The illustrations that accompany the beginning of each story captures the contemporary aesthetic beautifully.
How can we not appreciate the value of what libraries do for us and our communities?
As well as showing how inter-connected we are, as a community of people.
This story was translated from Japanese by Alison Watts. I have included some of my favorite library quotes below.
"Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life." Sidney Sheldon (1917-2007. American writer and producer)
"You want weapons? We’re in a library. Books are the best weapon in the world. This room’s the greatest arsenal we could have. Arm yourself!" Russell T. Davies (b. 1963. Welsh screenwriter and television producer) in science fiction series Doctor Who.
Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that of an ignorant nation. Walter Cronkite (1916-2009. American broadcast journalist, in American Library Association "Libraries Change Lives" Campaign, 1995)
"I'm a Librarian, Librarianship is my religion, Libraries are my temple, and Catalog is my key weapon to unlock the wealth of wisdom and knowledge stored in the libraries." Salman Haider (Librarian, cataloger, blogger, and creator of Librarianship Studies & Information Technology blog)
She was directionless. A semi-colleague suggested the community house that provided near free classes which then led her to the library that was available to her for living in that part of the city.
And…That one visit, opened doors. Never could she have imagined the possibilities of what she was capable of creating for herself by revisiting a children’s book recommended by the librarian.
Especially when that wasn’t what she had asked for when she came in. She is also handed a gift by the librarian…
Which… At the time the gift is given doesn’t make sense.
But…As the story builds, the gift eventually becomes clear.
Nor…How the books or gift would affect her outlook on life and the people she interacted with in her life.
"Google can bring you back 100,000 answers, a librarian can bring you back the right one." Neil Gaiman (b. 1960. English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, audio theatre, and films)
And…That was just the beginning for this book of short stories, that showcased the impact libraries have on all of us.
Each story finds characters face-to-face with the same librarian, being asked what books they need…
And then…Being given a list that also includes a book that seems unrelated to what they thought they needed…
As well as a gift from the librarian that will soon make sense by the end of the story.
Each individual is transformed from their experience at the library.
The stories are simple, and yet…
Thoughtful and pleasing. The illustrations that accompany the beginning of each story captures the contemporary aesthetic beautifully.
How can we not appreciate the value of what libraries do for us and our communities?
As well as showing how inter-connected we are, as a community of people.
This story was translated from Japanese by Alison Watts. I have included some of my favorite library quotes below.
"Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life." Sidney Sheldon (1917-2007. American writer and producer)
"You want weapons? We’re in a library. Books are the best weapon in the world. This room’s the greatest arsenal we could have. Arm yourself!" Russell T. Davies (b. 1963. Welsh screenwriter and television producer) in science fiction series Doctor Who.
Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that of an ignorant nation. Walter Cronkite (1916-2009. American broadcast journalist, in American Library Association "Libraries Change Lives" Campaign, 1995)
"I'm a Librarian, Librarianship is my religion, Libraries are my temple, and Catalog is my key weapon to unlock the wealth of wisdom and knowledge stored in the libraries." Salman Haider (Librarian, cataloger, blogger, and creator of Librarianship Studies & Information Technology blog)
August 9, 2023
A bestseller in Japan, Michiko Aoyama’s novel combines realism with a dash of fantasy. In a series of interlinked stories, five seemingly separate people have a transformative encounter with a mysterious librarian in their neighbourhood library. Each of them is at a different stage in life, all of them are somehow stuck: from newly-retired Masao who doesn’t know what to do with his time to Natsumi who’s been sidelined at work since becoming a mother to recent graduate Tomoko dissatisfied with her dead-end job. The otherworldly librarian, Sayuri Komachi, seems to act like a kind of magical or spiritual creature, a form of benevolent yokai or perhaps a goddess, whose book recommendations lead these readers in unexpected directions.
Aoyama’s style reminded me a little of Lonely Castle in the Mirror. Her story’s simply told, a little formulaic, perhaps a little trite, but still a relatively inventive variation on the self-help/life lessons genre. It’s a calm, gentle piece that flows well, Aoyama’s characters are engaging, and their situations provide interesting insights into aspects of contemporary Japanese society, particularly when it comes to relations between self and work. Unlike many Western “inspirational” books, this is less focused on the individual and much more on the individual as part of a wider community - from family to neighbours to co-workers. I wondered whether this emphasis was meant to reflect mainstream Japanese culture or whether it was an attempt to address increasing social fragmentation – for example Aoyama’s insistence on the benefits of intergenerational understanding and cooperation. Translated by Alison Watts.
Thanks to Netgalley UK and publisher Doubleday for an ARC
Aoyama’s style reminded me a little of Lonely Castle in the Mirror. Her story’s simply told, a little formulaic, perhaps a little trite, but still a relatively inventive variation on the self-help/life lessons genre. It’s a calm, gentle piece that flows well, Aoyama’s characters are engaging, and their situations provide interesting insights into aspects of contemporary Japanese society, particularly when it comes to relations between self and work. Unlike many Western “inspirational” books, this is less focused on the individual and much more on the individual as part of a wider community - from family to neighbours to co-workers. I wondered whether this emphasis was meant to reflect mainstream Japanese culture or whether it was an attempt to address increasing social fragmentation – for example Aoyama’s insistence on the benefits of intergenerational understanding and cooperation. Translated by Alison Watts.
Thanks to Netgalley UK and publisher Doubleday for an ARC
October 15, 2023
I connected mostly with Natsumi, a mom struggling to do it all, and a little with Ryo, a man with a dream of “one day”.
Overall this was sweet and heartwarming, but I don’t think I’ll remember much beyond the general calm feeling and the representation of fat people. I understand it’s indicative of Japanese culture but it was really startling to read that a character had a fright by seeing a fat/big/plus sized woman. She was also compared to Baymax and the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man and like… ouch.
Overall this was sweet and heartwarming, but I don’t think I’ll remember much beyond the general calm feeling and the representation of fat people. I understand it’s indicative of Japanese culture but it was really startling to read that a character had a fright by seeing a fat/big/plus sized woman. She was also compared to Baymax and the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man and like… ouch.
September 24, 2024
As a bibliophile, I've always envisioned a sanctuary of words, a cozy bookstore where I can lose myself in stories and find solace in the company of fellow book lovers. I yearn for a space where people can discover the joy of reading and find books that resonate with their souls. More than just a place to buy books, I dream of a bookstore that becomes a community hub, a place where people can connect and share their love of literature.
After reading What You Are Looking For Is In The Lobrary by the treasured Japanese healing writer Michiko Aoyama, I suddenly felt confident about opening a bookstore.
This novel tells the stories of 5 people of different ages and occupations and their relationships with books.
The 1 that resonate to me the most is Ryo, is a 35-year-old accountant at a furniture manufacturing company who has always wanted to open an antique shop but has been hesitant.
A turning point came when he accompanied his girlfriend to a training session, there is a library there, and the person in charge of recommending books is a woman named Sayuri Komachi. She may look a bit scary, but she can always find seemingly strange but perfectly suitable books for readers, helping them solve their problems.
In this case, in addition to books that might be helpful to his dream of opening an antique shop, Sayuri also recommended him a book with “The Magic of Plants". Plants and opening an antique shop are completely unrelated, aren't they?
However, it was the plants in this book that helped Ryo resolve his long-standing dilemma. People living on the ground often tend to only focus on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of plants. But for plants, the above-ground and below-ground parts actually coexist and support each other, without interfering with each other.
A major reason why Ryo couldn't decide to open a shop was that he was very worried about quitting his current job. In fact, work and opening a shop can coexist. Work is for making a living, and opening a shop is a passion; work hard when you're at work and nourish your spirit with your passion after work.
As Ryo said, his biggest wish in opening a shop is to provide a connection. He wants to be a bridge, preparing a space for these old objects and the people who seek them, allowing people who come here to hold the old objects in their hands and confirm the moving moment of their encounter.
Like... if you always wait for the right time, those beautiful wishes may become increasingly out of reach. If you put this beauty in the right place, the wishes you originally wanted to realize "in the future" may be realized "tomorrow".
We all harbor dreams that we hope to fulfill, and we long to share something positive with the world. If you've discovered a way to express your creativity or passion, don't hesitate to share it with others. Just as Sayuri helped Ryo find his purpose, we can use our own unique talents to enrich the lives of those around us. Remember, we are all writing our own stories, and our lives are intertwined with the lives of others.
3.4 / 5 stars
After reading What You Are Looking For Is In The Lobrary by the treasured Japanese healing writer Michiko Aoyama, I suddenly felt confident about opening a bookstore.
This novel tells the stories of 5 people of different ages and occupations and their relationships with books.
The 1 that resonate to me the most is Ryo, is a 35-year-old accountant at a furniture manufacturing company who has always wanted to open an antique shop but has been hesitant.
A turning point came when he accompanied his girlfriend to a training session, there is a library there, and the person in charge of recommending books is a woman named Sayuri Komachi. She may look a bit scary, but she can always find seemingly strange but perfectly suitable books for readers, helping them solve their problems.
In this case, in addition to books that might be helpful to his dream of opening an antique shop, Sayuri also recommended him a book with “The Magic of Plants". Plants and opening an antique shop are completely unrelated, aren't they?
However, it was the plants in this book that helped Ryo resolve his long-standing dilemma. People living on the ground often tend to only focus on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of plants. But for plants, the above-ground and below-ground parts actually coexist and support each other, without interfering with each other.
A major reason why Ryo couldn't decide to open a shop was that he was very worried about quitting his current job. In fact, work and opening a shop can coexist. Work is for making a living, and opening a shop is a passion; work hard when you're at work and nourish your spirit with your passion after work.
As Ryo said, his biggest wish in opening a shop is to provide a connection. He wants to be a bridge, preparing a space for these old objects and the people who seek them, allowing people who come here to hold the old objects in their hands and confirm the moving moment of their encounter.
Like... if you always wait for the right time, those beautiful wishes may become increasingly out of reach. If you put this beauty in the right place, the wishes you originally wanted to realize "in the future" may be realized "tomorrow".
We all harbor dreams that we hope to fulfill, and we long to share something positive with the world. If you've discovered a way to express your creativity or passion, don't hesitate to share it with others. Just as Sayuri helped Ryo find his purpose, we can use our own unique talents to enrich the lives of those around us. Remember, we are all writing our own stories, and our lives are intertwined with the lives of others.
3.4 / 5 stars
July 24, 2024
Herzliche Glückwünsche zur Veröffentlichung 🎊 Ich war erpicht, das Buch bis zum 18. Juli 2023 auszulesen. Ich konnte es kaum abwarten, meiner Familie und Freunden dieses Buch zum Schmökern weiterzuempfehlen.
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Michiko Aoyama hat in ihrem Buch fünf Geschichten mit optimistischen und kraftvollen Botschaften ausgetüftelt. Wer liebt nicht Bücher über Bücher? Jedes Mal, wenn einer der Protagonisten oder eine der Protagonistinnen die Bücherei betrat, um Frau Sayuri Komachi zu beratschlagen, welche Bücher ihren akuten Bedürfnissen dient, war ich gespannt, was die Bibliothekarin tatsächlich empfehlen würde, denn sie kann auf geheime, unausgesprochne Bedürfnisse der Individuen eingehen. Es geschehen keine Wunder per se, aber Schritt für Schritt treten in ihren Leben Veränderungen ein, die sie selbst initiieren. In jeder Geschichte fand ich Elemente, mit denen ich mich selbst identifiziert habe und jedes Kapitel löste ein Gefühl aus Gelassenheit und Zufriedenheit in mir aus.
Der strukturierte Erzählstil macht es einfach, dem Fluss der Handlung zu folgen.
Wer möchte nicht in eine To-sho-shitsu = Bibliothek, um mit Frau Komachi Prachtexemplare von Bücher zu eruieren und ihre Kraft auf Menschen beobachten?
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Michiko Aoyama hat in ihrem Buch fünf Geschichten mit optimistischen und kraftvollen Botschaften ausgetüftelt. Wer liebt nicht Bücher über Bücher? Jedes Mal, wenn einer der Protagonisten oder eine der Protagonistinnen die Bücherei betrat, um Frau Sayuri Komachi zu beratschlagen, welche Bücher ihren akuten Bedürfnissen dient, war ich gespannt, was die Bibliothekarin tatsächlich empfehlen würde, denn sie kann auf geheime, unausgesprochne Bedürfnisse der Individuen eingehen. Es geschehen keine Wunder per se, aber Schritt für Schritt treten in ihren Leben Veränderungen ein, die sie selbst initiieren. In jeder Geschichte fand ich Elemente, mit denen ich mich selbst identifiziert habe und jedes Kapitel löste ein Gefühl aus Gelassenheit und Zufriedenheit in mir aus.
Der strukturierte Erzählstil macht es einfach, dem Fluss der Handlung zu folgen.
Wer möchte nicht in eine To-sho-shitsu = Bibliothek, um mit Frau Komachi Prachtexemplare von Bücher zu eruieren und ihre Kraft auf Menschen beobachten?
November 7, 2023
I'm a hater for this book. Overhyped for me & I feel betrayed. This is nothing like the vibe or the aura of before the coffee gets cold. & this isn't any magical or sort of woow book.
The only think I liked in this book was the chapter title " NEET, not in employment, education, or training". That was the only creative thing for me.
Things & characters seemed so out of the blue, the way the moral of the story had to be spoon-fed at the end with how the book finally made the customer feel good about themselves??? Big no for me. That was more depressing than healing to read!
The only think I liked in this book was the chapter title " NEET, not in employment, education, or training". That was the only creative thing for me.
Things & characters seemed so out of the blue, the way the moral of the story had to be spoon-fed at the end with how the book finally made the customer feel good about themselves??? Big no for me. That was more depressing than healing to read!
November 22, 2022
This book is so poetic and small but with a great message. It’s never too late to start over.
We read about five different characters who feel lost in life and this small library of community center as well as the people who work there can change their lives.
This goes to my TOP this year.
Everyone should read this book.
Why not offer as Christmas’ gift?
We read about five different characters who feel lost in life and this small library of community center as well as the people who work there can change their lives.
This goes to my TOP this year.
Everyone should read this book.
Why not offer as Christmas’ gift?
January 6, 2024
A great series of interconnected stories – moving, intriguing and very well crafted.
June 11, 2023
Awhhh this book. This book is exactly what I need in my current state of life. The phase of uncertainty, the dire and tiredness of working, the feeling of can I be more in the world of employment.
One theme tied in this book is the highlight of each aspect of work, employment, and the harsh and tiring life of working.
How do I talk about this book? I'm glad this book got a translation because I think its the book for everyone who is going through hard times in their life, the questions we might ask at some point in our life when it comes to jobs, the uncertainty of the future, and this book provided possible situations and I believe we can relate to these characters.
What you are looking for? The librarian Sayuri Komachi asked these people who came to the small community library seeking for books but coming out with life lessons learned as they gained new directions and help which comes in the form of Komachi's little gift. Told in five different characters in various stages of their life: the first person is a young woman who works as a saleswoman at a clothes shop with the hope of a better job, a man who wants to open an antique shop but is unhappy with his accounting job, a newborn mother who resumed work in her magazine job but got transferred to another department, an unemployed man in his 30s who still struggle to secure a job and a retired old man who finally retired from his job of 45 years. We followed these characters in their jobs, their struggles and not knowing how to navigate their lives as they are feeling lost and unsure what should they do in their jobs. For me personally who is struggling with a job, I found myself relating to the first story and the unemployed man. This story somehow gets me feeling so many emotions, I felt courage and comfort, and I found hope alongside these characters, and that is why I like this book.
We are all lost in our own ways and having some inspiration and help from others gave us hope. Komachi is like a magician, she knows exactly what these characters are really looking for in their situation, she provided some sort of gift in the form of books and the felted objects she created herself to them and these items help them discover their true form, for them to realize their talent, for these people to regain a sense of hope. Please read this book, its so good
Thank you to Edelweiss and Hanover Press for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review
One theme tied in this book is the highlight of each aspect of work, employment, and the harsh and tiring life of working.
How do I talk about this book? I'm glad this book got a translation because I think its the book for everyone who is going through hard times in their life, the questions we might ask at some point in our life when it comes to jobs, the uncertainty of the future, and this book provided possible situations and I believe we can relate to these characters.
What you are looking for? The librarian Sayuri Komachi asked these people who came to the small community library seeking for books but coming out with life lessons learned as they gained new directions and help which comes in the form of Komachi's little gift. Told in five different characters in various stages of their life: the first person is a young woman who works as a saleswoman at a clothes shop with the hope of a better job, a man who wants to open an antique shop but is unhappy with his accounting job, a newborn mother who resumed work in her magazine job but got transferred to another department, an unemployed man in his 30s who still struggle to secure a job and a retired old man who finally retired from his job of 45 years. We followed these characters in their jobs, their struggles and not knowing how to navigate their lives as they are feeling lost and unsure what should they do in their jobs. For me personally who is struggling with a job, I found myself relating to the first story and the unemployed man. This story somehow gets me feeling so many emotions, I felt courage and comfort, and I found hope alongside these characters, and that is why I like this book.
We are all lost in our own ways and having some inspiration and help from others gave us hope. Komachi is like a magician, she knows exactly what these characters are really looking for in their situation, she provided some sort of gift in the form of books and the felted objects she created herself to them and these items help them discover their true form, for them to realize their talent, for these people to regain a sense of hope. Please read this book, its so good
Thank you to Edelweiss and Hanover Press for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review
May 5, 2023
A senhora Komachi olhou para mim de frente.
-Eu não sei nada que você não saiba, nem lhe dei nada, na verdade. Os significados dos brindes que dou às pessoas são elas mesmas quem lhos dão. E com os livros é a mesma coisa. Quando alguém lê um livro, frui, das suas palavras, algo muito pessoal que em nada tem que ver com as intenções do autor.
-Eu não sei nada que você não saiba, nem lhe dei nada, na verdade. Os significados dos brindes que dou às pessoas são elas mesmas quem lhos dão. E com os livros é a mesma coisa. Quando alguém lê um livro, frui, das suas palavras, algo muito pessoal que em nada tem que ver com as intenções do autor.
October 2, 2023
Una linda historia, pero muy plana para mi gusto.
Este libro solo tiene 5 capítulos, sobre 5 personas que están viviendo un momento de incertidumbre, indecisión y que de casualidad visitan la Biblioteca de la señora Komachi. En este lugar, la bibliotecaria les recomienda un libro que los ayudará a cambiar el rumbo de sus vidas.
Leer este libro se siente como terapia, es algo así como una "novela de autoayuda". Representa a personajes con problemas que podrían ser los de cualquiera de nosotros y con los que es fácil empatizar: una madre cansada de cargar con mucho sobre sus hombros, un estudiante que no ha encontrado la forma de desarrollar su pasión, un hombre ya ha jubilado que no sabe qué hacer ahora con su vida, etc.
Lo interesante es que estos temas se van solucionado de manera muy realista. No hay heroes, personajes perfectos o magia involucradaSino solo personas que, guiadas por los libros, impulsan un cambio en su vida.
Esto hace que sus mensajes se sientan cercanos y posibles de aplicar a nuestra propia vida.
Aunque este factor real y cotidiano me llamó la atención hace también que el libro a ratos se sienta un poco plano y poco emocionante. Es equivalente a leer la vida de personas 100% comunes y corrientes. Y aunque al principio lo sentí novedoso, después de un rato ya ansiaba un poco más de drama.
En ningún caso creo que sea un mal libro por esta razón. Solo no creo ser 100% el público objetivo. Soy más de historias dramáticas que de tramas tan sutiles.
De todas formas, fue una buena y muy linda lectura. Y me quedo con el mensaje principal: que los libros pueden cambiar la percepción de una persona y ayudarla en un dificil momento de su vida.
Este libro solo tiene 5 capítulos, sobre 5 personas que están viviendo un momento de incertidumbre, indecisión y que de casualidad visitan la Biblioteca de la señora Komachi. En este lugar, la bibliotecaria les recomienda un libro que los ayudará a cambiar el rumbo de sus vidas.
Leer este libro se siente como terapia, es algo así como una "novela de autoayuda". Representa a personajes con problemas que podrían ser los de cualquiera de nosotros y con los que es fácil empatizar: una madre cansada de cargar con mucho sobre sus hombros, un estudiante que no ha encontrado la forma de desarrollar su pasión, un hombre ya ha jubilado que no sabe qué hacer ahora con su vida, etc.
Lo interesante es que estos temas se van solucionado de manera muy realista. No hay heroes, personajes perfectos o magia involucradaSino solo personas que, guiadas por los libros, impulsan un cambio en su vida.
Esto hace que sus mensajes se sientan cercanos y posibles de aplicar a nuestra propia vida.
Aunque este factor real y cotidiano me llamó la atención hace también que el libro a ratos se sienta un poco plano y poco emocionante. Es equivalente a leer la vida de personas 100% comunes y corrientes. Y aunque al principio lo sentí novedoso, después de un rato ya ansiaba un poco más de drama.
En ningún caso creo que sea un mal libro por esta razón. Solo no creo ser 100% el público objetivo. Soy más de historias dramáticas que de tramas tan sutiles.
De todas formas, fue una buena y muy linda lectura. Y me quedo con el mensaje principal: que los libros pueden cambiar la percepción de una persona y ayudarla en un dificil momento de su vida.
Read
August 2, 2023This is an incredibly sweet, charming, and wholesome novel about feeling lost, and finding your way with the help and support of others.
Five chapters tell the stories of five people who all live in the same ward of Tokyo. A young sales assistant from the countryside, a man who dreams of owning his own business, a forty-year-old mother, an unemployed NEET, and a newly-retired man.
During each of their tales, these protagonists will visit their local library and meet Sayuri Komachi, a patient and kind librarian who will give them what books they want, as well as one extra book that will help them get unstuck.
My full thoughts: https://booksandbao.com/japanese-lite...
Five chapters tell the stories of five people who all live in the same ward of Tokyo. A young sales assistant from the countryside, a man who dreams of owning his own business, a forty-year-old mother, an unemployed NEET, and a newly-retired man.
During each of their tales, these protagonists will visit their local library and meet Sayuri Komachi, a patient and kind librarian who will give them what books they want, as well as one extra book that will help them get unstuck.
My full thoughts: https://booksandbao.com/japanese-lite...
October 9, 2022
“O Que Procuras Está Na Biblioteca” é um livro que contém histórias de vida de 5 personagens.
em poucas páginas conhecemos cada uma delas e o que estão a passar naquele momento das suas vidas.
para quem, como eu, gosta de refletir e de tirar algo transmitido pelos livros para a sua vida, este livro é um must read.
de uma forma muito simples mas pensada, a autora consegue criar uma narrativa que me fez ficar agarrada a cada história, tanto para perceber como iria terminar como que reflexão tiraria dali.
e não é engraçado que eu consegui identificar-me em cada uma destas histórias e relacionar-me com cada personagem?
mesmo aquelas que estão noutra faixa etária ou com vidas tão diferentes, eu senti-me representada em cada uma!
sabem como me senti no momento em que virei a última página?
leve, com um sorriso no rosto, lágrimas nos olhos e um sentimento de conforto gigante, assim como esta capa maravilhosa transmite.
e sabem mais uma coisa?
às vezes almejamos tanto ou “cobiçamos” a vida dos outros, queremos ter tudo e fazer tudo, com medo de estarmos a perder o momento. às vezes queremos ser outras pessoas, viver outras vidas.
mas só podemos viver esta que nos foi dada, concedida. podemos viver mais leves, agradecendo pelo mais pequeno detalhe até à maior vitória ou conquista. até podemos agradecer às derrotas, falhas, tristezas (não é algo fácil), mas tudo isso é o conjunto de quem somos hoje.
quanto a viver outras vidas, os livros ajudam-nos nesse caminho, pelo menos falo por mim própria.
quanto mais leio mais agradeço a minha vida, quem sou e em quem me tenho tornado.
este livro ensinou-me e mostrou-me que é possível viver uma vida tranquila, que podemos fazer tantas coisas, que a idade é só um número. que nunca estamos demasiado adiantados ou atrasados, estamos onde temos de estar.
e n��o somos mais ou menos por isso.
sou só eu, a fazer a minha caminhada.
termino dizendo:
estejam atentos às vossas leituras, aos livros que vos chamam. eles podem ter um significado muito maior do que aquele que imaginam. 🥹
“e se um livro pudesse mudar a tua vida?”
posso afirmar que quando termino um livro com o sentimento como este me deixou, sei que a minha vida mudou mais um bocadinho. ✨
em poucas páginas conhecemos cada uma delas e o que estão a passar naquele momento das suas vidas.
para quem, como eu, gosta de refletir e de tirar algo transmitido pelos livros para a sua vida, este livro é um must read.
de uma forma muito simples mas pensada, a autora consegue criar uma narrativa que me fez ficar agarrada a cada história, tanto para perceber como iria terminar como que reflexão tiraria dali.
e não é engraçado que eu consegui identificar-me em cada uma destas histórias e relacionar-me com cada personagem?
mesmo aquelas que estão noutra faixa etária ou com vidas tão diferentes, eu senti-me representada em cada uma!
sabem como me senti no momento em que virei a última página?
leve, com um sorriso no rosto, lágrimas nos olhos e um sentimento de conforto gigante, assim como esta capa maravilhosa transmite.
e sabem mais uma coisa?
às vezes almejamos tanto ou “cobiçamos” a vida dos outros, queremos ter tudo e fazer tudo, com medo de estarmos a perder o momento. às vezes queremos ser outras pessoas, viver outras vidas.
mas só podemos viver esta que nos foi dada, concedida. podemos viver mais leves, agradecendo pelo mais pequeno detalhe até à maior vitória ou conquista. até podemos agradecer às derrotas, falhas, tristezas (não é algo fácil), mas tudo isso é o conjunto de quem somos hoje.
quanto a viver outras vidas, os livros ajudam-nos nesse caminho, pelo menos falo por mim própria.
quanto mais leio mais agradeço a minha vida, quem sou e em quem me tenho tornado.
este livro ensinou-me e mostrou-me que é possível viver uma vida tranquila, que podemos fazer tantas coisas, que a idade é só um número. que nunca estamos demasiado adiantados ou atrasados, estamos onde temos de estar.
e n��o somos mais ou menos por isso.
sou só eu, a fazer a minha caminhada.
termino dizendo:
estejam atentos às vossas leituras, aos livros que vos chamam. eles podem ter um significado muito maior do que aquele que imaginam. 🥹
“e se um livro pudesse mudar a tua vida?”
posso afirmar que quando termino um livro com o sentimento como este me deixou, sei que a minha vida mudou mais um bocadinho. ✨
December 27, 2023
A delightful, magical story! I love the idea of a librarian who listened and was then able to suggest a book that would help inspire a person along on their path.
We meet 5 different people who are stuck and are not sure how to move forward. With the help of a seer- like librarian and books, they will receive the impetus to guide them.
Anyone who loves books and libraries will be touched by the magic in this book. This book was the perfect book to read over a busy holiday season.
Many thanks to Diane, whose review led me to this book!!
Published: 2020
We meet 5 different people who are stuck and are not sure how to move forward. With the help of a seer- like librarian and books, they will receive the impetus to guide them.
Anyone who loves books and libraries will be touched by the magic in this book. This book was the perfect book to read over a busy holiday season.
Many thanks to Diane, whose review led me to this book!!
Published: 2020
December 7, 2023
Was this book a life changing read? No, it wasn't. Was it a feel good, charming read filled with endearing yet imperfect characters learning somewhat important lessons? Yes. If you're looking for a read that isn't super deep but just sort of sweet this one might be what you're looking for. I was particularly fond of fat needle felting librarian it's not often that we see that type of character presented in a heartwarming fashion so I enjoyed it greatly.
June 23, 2024
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library
⤷ ⭑⭑⭑⭑
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁the book consists of five short stories featuring the perspective of different characters dealing with internal struggles or dilemmas that people experience at some point in their lives.
the stories range from a sales assistant in their twenties to a retired man in his sixties. each story is different, but each visits the same Community House Library, where they meet the librarian, Mrs. Komachi, to whom they each ask for book recommendations. but when she asks, “What are you looking for?”, they respond by sharing their innermost struggles and feelings. Mrs. Komachi then provides them with a list of recommendations along with an extra book that is thought-provoking with surprising insights, and with a handmade felt gift.⟢₊⊹
i believe this is one of those books that you must read at least once in your life. it's insightful and delves into the uncertainties of life and the perpetual questioning of the choices we make. this makes me think about how it was really up to us whether we surrendered ourselves to sink into life’s unpredictability or seize the reins and forge our own path.
so now ask yourself… what are you looking for?
𖧷 ° .♡
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ ⋅ pre-read: hope this book gets me out of this slump ｡*ﾟ
⤷ ⭑⭑⭑⭑
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁the book consists of five short stories featuring the perspective of different characters dealing with internal struggles or dilemmas that people experience at some point in their lives.
the stories range from a sales assistant in their twenties to a retired man in his sixties. each story is different, but each visits the same Community House Library, where they meet the librarian, Mrs. Komachi, to whom they each ask for book recommendations. but when she asks, “What are you looking for?”, they respond by sharing their innermost struggles and feelings. Mrs. Komachi then provides them with a list of recommendations along with an extra book that is thought-provoking with surprising insights, and with a handmade felt gift.⟢₊⊹
‧⋆. ☁️ ˚ ❝ There are so many things to do, but I won’t make the excuse that I have no time anymore. Instead, I will think about what I can do with the time I have. One day is going to become tomorrow. ❞
i believe this is one of those books that you must read at least once in your life. it's insightful and delves into the uncertainties of life and the perpetual questioning of the choices we make. this makes me think about how it was really up to us whether we surrendered ourselves to sink into life’s unpredictability or seize the reins and forge our own path.
‧₊˚🍃 ⋅ ❝ You may say that it was the book, but it’s how you read a book that is most valuable, rather than any power it might have itself. ❞
so now ask yourself… what are you looking for?
𖧷 ° .♡
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ ⋅ pre-read: hope this book gets me out of this slump ｡*ﾟ
December 26, 2023
This is a delightful little book about five people whose lives are at crossroads. They are having difficulty in choosing the road they should walk, but an unplanned visit to a community library puts them in the path of a librarian who offers them an almost magical insight into their own lives via the book she recommends.
I was completely caught up in the stories, which were short but complete. There is some very good advice buried in the problems and the solutions, and the book leaves you with a very positive glow.
My thanks to Diane, who always steers me to treasures.
I was completely caught up in the stories, which were short but complete. There is some very good advice buried in the problems and the solutions, and the book leaves you with a very positive glow.
My thanks to Diane, who always steers me to treasures.
October 18, 2023
3,5 ⭐️
‘La biblioteca de los nuevos comienzos’ se une a esta ola (que tanto estoy amando) de libros japoneses luminosos y acogedores que llegan a nuestra vida para darnos un abrazo cuando más lo necesitamos. O así lo he sentido yo.
Esta novela nos presenta una serie de personajes que están de alguna forma ‘atascados’, insatisfechos o desanimados con algún aspecto de su vida, tocando de forma directa o transversal, el trabajo (y las alegrías y disgustos que nos causa). Estas personas acabarán por diferentes motivos en una biblioteca de barrio, donde la lectura de un libro recomendado por una discreta, algo extraña, pero muy avispada bibliotecaria, les enseñará el camino hacia nuevos lugares, eso sí, deberán estar dispuestos a abrir esa puerta con su esfuerzo.
Las historias de estos personajes (una mujer que tras ser madre pierde importancia en su empresa, un hombre recién jubilado, un chico con síndrome del impostor…) son independientes, pero tendrán puntos de unión, que nos permitirá saber qué va pasando con cada uno de ellos a través detalles en las historias del resto.
Como decía al inicio es un libro muy luminoso, hecho para hacer sentirse bien a quien lo lee. No es una novela intensa con una trama llena de giros o que busque la mayor de las verosimilitudes. Un libro centrado en problemas cotidianos, lo que hace sencillo verse representado y que la propia lectura de llene de motivación para realizar algún cambio en tu vida, o simplemente recordarte que estás haciendo las cosas bien (o lo mejor que puedes). Una novela que te ayuda a recibir los cambios no solo con miedo, sino también con expectativas de que estos puedan traer cosas buenas.
También lo he sentido como un bonito recordatorio de lo importante que es dejarse ayudar cuando lo necesitamos, y como la empatía y el apoyo a veces puede llegar de lugares inesperados.
En todo caso, una de las cosas que más me ha gustado es que no son historias de “finales felices” al uso, sino que cuando nos despedimos de cada personaje es un nuevo comienzo en sus vidas, no sabemos si todo saldrá como esperan, pero si los vemos atreviéndose y trabajando duro en labrar su nuevo camino. No es un libro donde la suerte, las soluciones a sus problemas o el éxito les caigan del cielo y eso hace que el regusto que me deja el libro sea muy bueno. Reconfortante pero realista, nadie va a hacer las cosas por ti.
Soy la primera sorprendida de cuánto estoy disfrutando últimamente este tipo novelas acogedoras, sencillas, que hasta hace poco me daban pereza. Esto me hace pensar que quizá nunca las había necesitado y me hace muy feliz saber que hay libros para cada momento, y que en los baches, cuando solo necesito distracción y calidez, también los libros están aquí para mi.
‘La biblioteca de los nuevos comienzos’ se une a esta ola (que tanto estoy amando) de libros japoneses luminosos y acogedores que llegan a nuestra vida para darnos un abrazo cuando más lo necesitamos. O así lo he sentido yo.
Esta novela nos presenta una serie de personajes que están de alguna forma ‘atascados’, insatisfechos o desanimados con algún aspecto de su vida, tocando de forma directa o transversal, el trabajo (y las alegrías y disgustos que nos causa). Estas personas acabarán por diferentes motivos en una biblioteca de barrio, donde la lectura de un libro recomendado por una discreta, algo extraña, pero muy avispada bibliotecaria, les enseñará el camino hacia nuevos lugares, eso sí, deberán estar dispuestos a abrir esa puerta con su esfuerzo.
Las historias de estos personajes (una mujer que tras ser madre pierde importancia en su empresa, un hombre recién jubilado, un chico con síndrome del impostor…) son independientes, pero tendrán puntos de unión, que nos permitirá saber qué va pasando con cada uno de ellos a través detalles en las historias del resto.
Como decía al inicio es un libro muy luminoso, hecho para hacer sentirse bien a quien lo lee. No es una novela intensa con una trama llena de giros o que busque la mayor de las verosimilitudes. Un libro centrado en problemas cotidianos, lo que hace sencillo verse representado y que la propia lectura de llene de motivación para realizar algún cambio en tu vida, o simplemente recordarte que estás haciendo las cosas bien (o lo mejor que puedes). Una novela que te ayuda a recibir los cambios no solo con miedo, sino también con expectativas de que estos puedan traer cosas buenas.
También lo he sentido como un bonito recordatorio de lo importante que es dejarse ayudar cuando lo necesitamos, y como la empatía y el apoyo a veces puede llegar de lugares inesperados.
En todo caso, una de las cosas que más me ha gustado es que no son historias de “finales felices” al uso, sino que cuando nos despedimos de cada personaje es un nuevo comienzo en sus vidas, no sabemos si todo saldrá como esperan, pero si los vemos atreviéndose y trabajando duro en labrar su nuevo camino. No es un libro donde la suerte, las soluciones a sus problemas o el éxito les caigan del cielo y eso hace que el regusto que me deja el libro sea muy bueno. Reconfortante pero realista, nadie va a hacer las cosas por ti.
Soy la primera sorprendida de cuánto estoy disfrutando últimamente este tipo novelas acogedoras, sencillas, que hasta hace poco me daban pereza. Esto me hace pensar que quizá nunca las había necesitado y me hace muy feliz saber que hay libros para cada momento, y que en los baches, cuando solo necesito distracción y calidez, también los libros están aquí para mi.
January 19, 2024
This is a book I will think of often - my initial review-o-meter put it at 4 stars, with a spank for the fatphobicness that appears in every vignette. . . but the more I ponder, the more I wonder if it serves an authorial purpose I haven't fully grasped, and that is interesting in and of itself. . .
So here I go: this is a book about libraries changing lives. 5 stars right there.
It has 5 vignettes, that are framed by a key character, Sayuri Komachi, a librarian with some quirks:
1 - Tomoka, 21, womanswear assistant
2 - Ryo, 35, accounts department of a furniture manufacturer
3 - Natsumi, 40, former magazine editor
4 - Hiroya, 30, NEET (not in employment, education or training)
5 - Masao, 65, retired
Each of these people are having life crises with their employment / purpose and meaningful life and find themselves at some point at the library desk of Ms. Komachi. She asks them one question, they answer it, and without much further interaction she recommends books for them to read. The stories lead you down each character's journey and responses to the reads they've been given - and the results are poignant, charming and profound.
The reader's bonus is the story of Ms. Komachi that comes forward, bit by bit. . .I keep coming back to the idea that this would make a great movie, but then. . .assumptions being what they are. . .maybe not.
A wonderful read.
52:24
So here I go: this is a book about libraries changing lives. 5 stars right there.
It has 5 vignettes, that are framed by a key character, Sayuri Komachi, a librarian with some quirks:
1 - Tomoka, 21, womanswear assistant
2 - Ryo, 35, accounts department of a furniture manufacturer
3 - Natsumi, 40, former magazine editor
4 - Hiroya, 30, NEET (not in employment, education or training)
5 - Masao, 65, retired
Each of these people are having life crises with their employment / purpose and meaningful life and find themselves at some point at the library desk of Ms. Komachi. She asks them one question, they answer it, and without much further interaction she recommends books for them to read. The stories lead you down each character's journey and responses to the reads they've been given - and the results are poignant, charming and profound.
The reader's bonus is the story of Ms. Komachi that comes forward, bit by bit. . .I keep coming back to the idea that this would make a great movie, but then. . .assumptions being what they are. . .maybe not.
A wonderful read.
52:24
November 11, 2023
I like libraries very much. I like the serene qualities that I find in libraries; I like the fact that people who work in libraries tend to have smiles on their faces- they obviously enjoy their work; I like the fact that there are shelves of books available for me to browse through and take a book home when I find an interesting one; I like the fact that occasionally I can sit and read peacefully if I choose to. Libraries are wonderful places for the reasons I've mentioned and for other reasons that are important to other people.
I also tend to read books about libraries, even if most of them end up being disappointing. What You Are Looking for Is in the Library is not a disappointing book, but it's not strictly a book about a library. The set up is a librarian who recommends books to people after asking the question, "What are you looking for?" After talking with her, five different characters end up making changes in their lives and those changes comprise most of the novel. It's not a bad book, just one that's a bit formulaic, but well done for what it is. But, as I said, it's not strictly a book about a library.
So, I'll keep looking for a truly good book about a library. I'm sure that it's out there and that I'll find it someday.
A tip of the cap to a GR friend who happens to be a librarian and who made me aware of this book by listing it as one she wants to read.
I also tend to read books about libraries, even if most of them end up being disappointing. What You Are Looking for Is in the Library is not a disappointing book, but it's not strictly a book about a library. The set up is a librarian who recommends books to people after asking the question, "What are you looking for?" After talking with her, five different characters end up making changes in their lives and those changes comprise most of the novel. It's not a bad book, just one that's a bit formulaic, but well done for what it is. But, as I said, it's not strictly a book about a library.
So, I'll keep looking for a truly good book about a library. I'm sure that it's out there and that I'll find it someday.
A tip of the cap to a GR friend who happens to be a librarian and who made me aware of this book by listing it as one she wants to read.
December 20, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“There are so many things to do, but I won’t make the excuse that I have no time anymore. Instead, I will think about what I can do with the time I have. One day is going to become tomorrow.”
I love love this book sooo much that I don’t know where to start with writing down my thoughts and feelings…. First of all, this year is the year of Japanese literature for sure! I read so many amazing books from such great Japanese authors which were translated by such great translators as well, otherwise how will we be able to read these gems right?
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library, written by Michiko Aoyama tells the story of five different people who lost their way in life and end up finding themselves in this special library where they meet Mrs. Komachi who helps them out in their life in ways they would not expect.
"Readers make their own personal connections to words, irrespective of the writer's intentions, and each reader gains something unique."
Mrs. Komachi is such a cute character and librarian, who recommends books and gives little handmade gifts to the visitors, which kind of end up changing their perspective in life and help them find a way. There was unfortunately not much information to her background in the book which I would love to know more about, (would be happy if there is a second book being published someday) but overall I was happy to meet her. Through the detailed descriptions in the book I could totally imagine how she might look too, which was really nice ^^
As always I couldn’t help but underline many beautifully written passages which I’ll be sharing here as well. This book was such a happy and calming read for me and made me want to visit my public library as soon as possible, wish librarians like Mrs. Komachi existed in reality as well. I also need to mention that I could not put this book down so it might be the perfect book to go out of a reading slump.
I can say that this book is officially one of my favourite reads of this year. As this lovely book has many things to offer I cant wait to reread it again in the future and take out new lessons that I might be needing then. I loved all of the chapters but my favourite one would be the second chapter about Ryo, I could relate to him so much and seeing how everything turned out in the end made me really happy.
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library is such an heart warming and inspiring book full of hope, friendship, connections and finding the little things in life. I loved the beautiful lessons and messages it gives about life in general, such as: “things don’t always go to plan, no matter what your circumstances ut the flip side is all the unexpected, wonderful things that you could never have imagined happening. Ultimately it’s all for the best that many things don’t turn out the way we hoped. Try not to think of upset plans or schedules as personal failure or bad luck. If you can do that, then you can change, in your own self and in your life overall.”
This book also reminds the reader that it’s never too late to start with something, no matter how old you are… I just love love this book with all my heart and a book about books and libraries? That’s more than enough for me! Anyways if I don’t stop now I might go on forever with my love for this book and will be ending this review with some favourite passages.
“I’m going to try and get started on doing something now, not just wait for one day to come along.”
“In a world where you don’t know what will happen next, I just do what I can right now.”
“This didn’t just come to you. It happened because you did something for yourself. You took action and that caused things to change around you.”
“Everybody is connected. And any one of their connections could be the start of a network that branches in many directions. If you wait for the right time to make connections, it might never happen, but if you show your face around, talk to people and see enough to give you the confidence that things could work out, then ‘one day’ might turn into ‘tomorrow.”
“The days go by more happily when you have something to dream about. It’s not always a bad thing to have a dream, with no plan for ever carrying it out.”
“There are so many things to do, but I won’t make the excuse that I have no time anymore. Instead, I will think about what I can do with the time I have. One day is going to become tomorrow.”
I love love this book sooo much that I don’t know where to start with writing down my thoughts and feelings…. First of all, this year is the year of Japanese literature for sure! I read so many amazing books from such great Japanese authors which were translated by such great translators as well, otherwise how will we be able to read these gems right?
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library, written by Michiko Aoyama tells the story of five different people who lost their way in life and end up finding themselves in this special library where they meet Mrs. Komachi who helps them out in their life in ways they would not expect.
"Readers make their own personal connections to words, irrespective of the writer's intentions, and each reader gains something unique."
Mrs. Komachi is such a cute character and librarian, who recommends books and gives little handmade gifts to the visitors, which kind of end up changing their perspective in life and help them find a way. There was unfortunately not much information to her background in the book which I would love to know more about, (would be happy if there is a second book being published someday) but overall I was happy to meet her. Through the detailed descriptions in the book I could totally imagine how she might look too, which was really nice ^^
As always I couldn’t help but underline many beautifully written passages which I’ll be sharing here as well. This book was such a happy and calming read for me and made me want to visit my public library as soon as possible, wish librarians like Mrs. Komachi existed in reality as well. I also need to mention that I could not put this book down so it might be the perfect book to go out of a reading slump.
I can say that this book is officially one of my favourite reads of this year. As this lovely book has many things to offer I cant wait to reread it again in the future and take out new lessons that I might be needing then. I loved all of the chapters but my favourite one would be the second chapter about Ryo, I could relate to him so much and seeing how everything turned out in the end made me really happy.
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library is such an heart warming and inspiring book full of hope, friendship, connections and finding the little things in life. I loved the beautiful lessons and messages it gives about life in general, such as: “things don’t always go to plan, no matter what your circumstances ut the flip side is all the unexpected, wonderful things that you could never have imagined happening. Ultimately it’s all for the best that many things don’t turn out the way we hoped. Try not to think of upset plans or schedules as personal failure or bad luck. If you can do that, then you can change, in your own self and in your life overall.”
This book also reminds the reader that it’s never too late to start with something, no matter how old you are… I just love love this book with all my heart and a book about books and libraries? That’s more than enough for me! Anyways if I don’t stop now I might go on forever with my love for this book and will be ending this review with some favourite passages.
“I’m going to try and get started on doing something now, not just wait for one day to come along.”
“In a world where you don’t know what will happen next, I just do what I can right now.”
“This didn’t just come to you. It happened because you did something for yourself. You took action and that caused things to change around you.”
“Everybody is connected. And any one of their connections could be the start of a network that branches in many directions. If you wait for the right time to make connections, it might never happen, but if you show your face around, talk to people and see enough to give you the confidence that things could work out, then ‘one day’ might turn into ‘tomorrow.”
“The days go by more happily when you have something to dream about. It’s not always a bad thing to have a dream, with no plan for ever carrying it out.”
August 9, 2024
If this book was food, this would be the (fictional) honey dome cookies, which are a theme: pretty, perfectly looking in Japanese style, soft goo-ey centre, and sweet. Not everyday fare. But I expect I would find the fictional cookies as delicious as the characters do, and the book was delicious. Very charming - but it is didactic, and that is a bug for me even if I think the things it is didactic about are true (or true as far as one can measure).
There is a Japanese book that has been published in translation recently: cosy and with a Japanese theme; the plot is a string of interconnected novellas (maybe these were published in magazines beforehand?), some supernatural hints, and this fits that concept. Like Before the Coffee Gets Cold, and Days at the Morisaki Bookshop (and some cat one I am eyeing), but of these three I have read, this was my favourite and I would argue objectively the strongest. The characters have depth, and they are all so nice, in very different ways. The ties between the characters from story to story are well done, there is a diversity to the characters and their problems that is fresh, and the final story answers some questions, elegantly giving some closure (incidentally, I expect there might be no sequels—not that it is closed, but it seems intentional). It's a very very nice book.
But it is intentionally uplifting, and perhaps I am a cynic, but it felt a a little bit intentionally didactic about the concept of fitting into a society, collectivism maybe, where the characters become happier and more satisfied if they change themselves a bit or change their expectations, but in all in relation to society as a whole. I expect it is very Japanese in that. I think a lot of its points are universal and good ideas for all societies and all humans, valuing connections, doing things, being curious, respecting oneself and others, but some of what is taken for granted (small side spoiler, the assistant librarian taking on instead a janitor job and not objecting because it was expected, unless somebody helped her) well, I got a non-Japanese perspective on it.
Incidentally, I thought there was a lot of symbolism in the details, like honey, bees, a hive, produced by a group, or the felt mascots, where pricks and outside pressure form a ball of wool into something with a shape or purpose - but it was done well, I only noticed it halfway through!
There is a Japanese book that has been published in translation recently: cosy and with a Japanese theme; the plot is a string of interconnected novellas (maybe these were published in magazines beforehand?), some supernatural hints, and this fits that concept. Like Before the Coffee Gets Cold, and Days at the Morisaki Bookshop (and some cat one I am eyeing), but of these three I have read, this was my favourite and I would argue objectively the strongest. The characters have depth, and they are all so nice, in very different ways. The ties between the characters from story to story are well done, there is a diversity to the characters and their problems that is fresh, and the final story answers some questions, elegantly giving some closure (incidentally, I expect there might be no sequels—not that it is closed, but it seems intentional). It's a very very nice book.
But it is intentionally uplifting, and perhaps I am a cynic, but it felt a a little bit intentionally didactic about the concept of fitting into a society, collectivism maybe, where the characters become happier and more satisfied if they change themselves a bit or change their expectations, but in all in relation to society as a whole. I expect it is very Japanese in that. I think a lot of its points are universal and good ideas for all societies and all humans, valuing connections, doing things, being curious, respecting oneself and others, but some of what is taken for granted (small side spoiler, the assistant librarian taking on instead a janitor job and not objecting because it was expected, unless somebody helped her) well, I got a non-Japanese perspective on it.
Incidentally, I thought there was a lot of symbolism in the details, like honey, bees, a hive, produced by a group, or the felt mascots, where pricks and outside pressure form a ball of wool into something with a shape or purpose - but it was done well, I only noticed it halfway through!
August 26, 2024
some cute moments here and there but idk nothing that made me fall in love w the book
December 1, 2023
I so wanted to love this and before reading, I had envisioned this being the perfect book to gift during the holidays. What I’m looking for may be in the library, but it certainly wasn’t in this book.
This book contains five short stories that each focus on an adult who is struggling in an area in their life. The issues range from work to motherhood to retirement. They all encounter a librarian in their local community center who, along with the list of titles that they actually requested, provides them with a book that they didn’t know they needed.
The stories are repetitive and formulaic, trite and twee. It is all told very simplistically. I can’t speak to the original language, but it is translated in a way that is appropriate for a young adult audience. It is heavy handed in its lessons and the Midnight Library comparison is apt (I didn’t care for that one either). The description of the librarian in every story is also…something else, iykyk.
For the things I liked—I did enjoy that the stories were slightly connected, with a character from one story popping up in another later on. I also liked the illustrations that accompanied the first page of each story!
Future librarian here to say use your library, love your library, support your library!! But pass on this book.
This book contains five short stories that each focus on an adult who is struggling in an area in their life. The issues range from work to motherhood to retirement. They all encounter a librarian in their local community center who, along with the list of titles that they actually requested, provides them with a book that they didn’t know they needed.
The stories are repetitive and formulaic, trite and twee. It is all told very simplistically. I can’t speak to the original language, but it is translated in a way that is appropriate for a young adult audience. It is heavy handed in its lessons and the Midnight Library comparison is apt (I didn’t care for that one either). The description of the librarian in every story is also…something else, iykyk.
For the things I liked—I did enjoy that the stories were slightly connected, with a character from one story popping up in another later on. I also liked the illustrations that accompanied the first page of each story!
Future librarian here to say use your library, love your library, support your library!! But pass on this book.
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