This is a charming book for and about people who love books. If you enjoyed the first book in the series you will enjoy this one as well. Although, this is the second book you do not need to read the first. The main character is 13 years old and is learning how to be independent while dealing with health issues. This book could/should have been a YA book. The message was a little too on the nose for me.

This story was very good. The characters, the premise, and the building of this world/idea. I was sucked in from the fist page and could not stop reading.

The Cat Who Saved the Library by Sosuke Natsukawa is the story of Nanami, a thirteen old girl who spends most of her time at the local library. She discovers books are disappearing from the library. A talking cat, Tiger, leads her on an adventure to save the library. This is the sequel to The Cat Who Saved Books, you get to visit the Natsuki Bookstore again and Rintaro and Sayo make appearances as well.

I recommend this book for magical realism readers and people who want a heartwarming story. Nanami is struggling with her mom who has passed away and her dad working late every day. She passes her time in the library where books are her closest friends. She’s the perfect hero to save the library.

Thank you Harper Via and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.

"The Cat Who Saved the Library" by Sosuke Natsukawa is a heartwarming tale that blends the quiet charm of small-town Japan with the magical realism of a story where animals play pivotal roles in human lives. Originally published in Japanese, this book has been translated into English, capturing the subtleties of the original work while bringing a universal appeal to readers worldwide. Natsukawa, known for his ability to weave together the mundane and the miraculous, offers here a narrative that celebrates the love of books, the bonds of community, and the unexpected friendships that can change lives.

Summary:

The story unfolds in the rural setting of Moriyama, where the local library faces closure due to lack of interest and funding. The librarian, Mr. Kon, a man deeply committed to the preservation of literature, is on the brink of despair when a stray cat adopts the library as its home. This cat, whom Mr. Kon names "Tama," is no ordinary feline; its presence begins to draw in visitors, from children to elderly residents, each finding solace or companionship in the library's embrace.

Tama not only helps in increasing the footfall by being a charismatic mascot but also seems to possess an almost mystical understanding of the books and the people who read them. Through various subplots, we see Tama's influence — a lonely old man finds a reason to visit daily, a young girl discovers her love for reading, and Mr. Kon himself regains hope in the face of bureaucratic challenges.

The narrative is interspersed with the cultural nuances of Japanese life, the respect for tradition, and an underlying theme of how small acts of kindness can lead to significant changes in a community. There's also a gentle exploration of grief, change, and the healing power of literature and companionship.

Conclusion:

"The Cat Who Saved the Library" is more than just a tale about a cat and a library; it's a narrative that speaks to the heart of what it means to connect with others through shared interests and empathy. Natsukawa's storytelling is subtle yet profound, creating characters that feel real and a setting that feels like a character in itself. The book leaves readers with a sense of warmth and the belief in the transformative power of community and literature. While the magical realism might not appeal to all, the core message of hope and connection is universally touching.

Ratings Breakdown:

Storyline: 4/5 - The plot is simple yet engaging, with a narrative that's both predictable in its feel-good outcome but rich in emotional depth.
Character Development: 4.5/5 - Characters are well-rounded, with each having their own arc influenced by Tama's presence. The cat itself is a character of depth, symbolizing more than just a pet.
Cultural Insight: 5/5 - Natsukawa effortlessly infuses the story with cultural details that educate and enrich the reading experience without overwhelming the plot.
Emotional Impact: 4.5/5 - The book tugs at the heartstrings, offering a cathartic experience through its gentle exploration of loneliness, community, and healing.
Writing Style: 4/5 - The translation maintains the poetic quality of Natsukawa's prose, though some nuances of the original language might be lost. The pacing is gentle, which might not suit those looking for a brisk narrative.
Overall: 4.4/5 - A beautiful, poignant read that's perfect for anyone who appreciates stories about the human spirit, the love of books, and the unconventional heroes in our lives like Tama.

This book is recommended for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of magic, or anyone in need of a reminder of the quiet wonders in life.