Prompt – A book set in Japan.
Medium – Audiobook
About the Book – This book is the tale of Nana, a stray cat who is befriended and rehomed by a young man called Satoru. The two live together peacefully and happily for five years, before Satoru decides to start travelling Japan visiting three sets of old friends from his youth, trying to decide which set should rehome his beloved Nana. The story is told both in the third person and through the eyes of the wonderfully illustrated cat – who is funny and just as I would expect a cat to sound if one could talk. Nana and Satoru travel Japan, seeing various parts of the country, and just enjoying each others’ company, as Satoru tries to find a new home for Nana, despite the cat’s determination that he won’t.
Rating – 9.5/10. Until fairly recently, I was very much a dog person. I liked cats – we had one and she was lovely, but I wished, with all my heart, for a dog. I still do really. But, with this book I have discovered a greater appreciation for cats than I ever thought I would – and yes, I know it’s a fiction book… This book is beautifully written and wonderfully translated. The audiobook version was lovely – each character (especially Nana) with their own unique voice and each as I would imagine hearing them. The voice of Nana in the book is superb. He is the very epitome of ‘cat-ness’, but with the deep love and affection I truly believe that animals feel for their humans.
I really enjoyed the mini-stories of the three sets of friends too – how their lives are intertwined with Satoru’s and how he has affected them through his life. The main storyline of Nana and Satoru travelling together is funny, enlightening and deeply touching – I especially liked the bit where Nana is on the ferry with all of the other cats and dogs. I also loved the way that the author slowly revealed the reason for Satoru wanting to give up Nana – it was extremely cleverly done and allowed me as the reader/listener to come to a slow realisation. This is one of those books you will read and weep through the ending of – but it is comforting and beautifully written. I would completely recommend it – whether you are a ‘cat person’ or not!
Would I read it again? Definitely. With a big box of tissues!
Jen's Book Blog 