The Cat Who Saved Books
By: Sosuke Natsukawa
Bookish high school student Rintaro Natsuki is about to close the secondhand bookshop he inherited from his beloved grandfather. Then, a talking cat named Tiger appears with an unusual request. The cat needs Rintaro's help to save books that have been imprisoned, destroyed and unloved. Their mission sends this odd couple on an amazing journey, where they enter different labyrinths to set books free. Through their travels, Tiger and Rintaro meet a man who locks up his books, an unwitting book torturer who cuts the pages of books into snippets to help people speed read, and a publisher who only wants to sell books like disposable products. Then, finally, there is a mission that Rintaro must complete alone...
AI Overview
Overview of "The Cat Who Saved Books" by Sosuke Natsukawa
Plot Summary: "The Cat Who Saved Books" is a heartwarming and magical tale about Rintaro Natsuki, a high school boy who is struggling to cope with the loss of his grandfather. Rintaro is a hikikomori, a Japanese term for someone who has chosen to withdraw from society, and he finds solace in his grandfather's second-hand bookshop. Before he is forced to move in with his aunt, Rintaro spends as much time as possible in the shop, surrounded by the books he loves.
One day, a talking tabby cat named Tiger appears in the shop. Tiger convinces Rintaro to join him on magical adventures to save books from people who have mistreated or imprisoned them. As they embark on these adventures, Rintaro transforms from a shy and isolated individual into a courageous and compassionate young man. Alongside Tiger, Rintaro is joined by Sayo, and together they navigate various bookish labyrinths, resolving the mistreatment of books and learning valuable lessons about family, friends, and the importance of literature.
Key Themes:
- Love for Literature: The book celebrates the joy and significance of reading and literature. It highlights how books can provide solace and meaning in times of crisis.
- Coming of Age: The story follows Rintaro’s journey from isolation to self-discovery and growth. His experiences with Tiger and Sayo help him understand himself and his grandfather’s legacy.
- Family and Relationships: The novel explores the importance of family and relationships in making life worth living. Rintaro’s bond with his grandfather and his interactions with Tiger and Sayo illustrate this theme.
- Courage and Compassion: Through his adventures, Rintaro develops courage and compassion, transforming from a hikikomori to a gallant young man.
Critical Reception:
- Positive Reviews: The book has received positive reviews for its unique blend of magical realism and heartfelt storytelling. Critics have praised the author’s ability to create a compelling narrative that explores themes of literature, family, and personal growth.
- Magical Adventures: The magical adventures with Tiger have been particularly praised for their imaginative and engaging nature, which adds a layer of enchantment to the story.
- Emotional Depth: Reviewers have noted the emotional depth of the novel, particularly in how it handles the loss of a loved one and the importance of cherishing memories through literature.
Sources:
- My Whole Nine Yards: The Cat Who Saved Books Book Review
- Potpourri2015: Book Review: The Cat Who Saved Books by Sosuke Natsukawa
- Thomas Ee: The Cat Who Saved Books - Reading Reflections
Overall, "The Cat Who Saved Books" is a captivating and emotionally resonant tale that celebrates the power of literature and personal growth.