Book Review: What you are looking for is in the library by Michiko Aoyama

This novel written by Michiko Aoyama is simple yet delightful, providing the readers with wisdom and a beautiful message; a message about finding purpose and connection in unexpected places. The plot involves characters from everyday walks of life that are very relatable. This novel quietly left a mark on me. It made me reflect on my own path and the small moments that can completely alter my journey. 

As each 5 chapters told the story of 5 different characters, I have made a short summary which obviously contains spoilers. I have done so because I can always come back to these little write ups to refresh my memory, but most importantly feel inspired in the moments of need. 

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1) Tomoka, 21, womenswear sales assistant

 Along with a children's illustrated book called "Guri and Gura", she was gifted a felt sculpture shaped like a frying pan. Her life, very much like her tiny apartment, was very disorganized and chaotic. From the simple children's book, she realized that if the two mice can make a wonderful Castella cake from the eggs they had discovered, she can try to make changes to her life with small actions. She started making simple dishes, soon turning into cooking full course meals. She realized the importance of taking care of herself and making use of whatever was at her disposal.

2) Ryo, 35, works at an accounts department of a furniture manufacturer

Along with a book called "How worms work?', he was gifted a felt sculpture shaped like a cat. Visiting the cat cafe and talking to the owner gave him the courage to pursue his lifelong dream of opening up an antique shop. The uncertainty about the store's success and future was what had made him put off the idea but he soon realized that one has to take risks and be brave to attain great things in life.

3) Natsumi, 40, former magazine editor

Along with a book about moon and astronomy called "Door to the moon", she was gifted a felt sculpture shaped like a globe. Having enjoyed the life as a magazine editor, but now being tied down with the responsibility of raising a child, she felt stuck and unhappy at her current desk job. Reading the book made her realize that she can change while still being the same inside. By getting a job as a literary editor at a children's book publishing company, she was able to find balance and enjoy her career.  

4) Hiroya, 30, NEET

Along with a book called "Evolution: a visual record", he was gifted a felt sculpture shaped like a plane. Fearing scrutiny and ridicule, he always kept his artwork to himself. It took him some time to understand that it was all in his head.  He realized that his own thinking limited his opportunities. He got the courage to start illustrating again and felt comfortable getting back to working. 

5) Masao, 65, Retired 

Along with a book titled "Genge and frogs junior poetry series", he was gifted a felt sculpture shaped like a crab. Having been retired from working at Kuremiyado which sold honeydome cookies, he felt that he had nothing else to do now. He was actively seeking a purpose or even a hobby. He started enjoying poetry and trying to understand it's deeper meaning. He gifted that sculpture to his daughter who really appreciated that gesture. After receiving the gift, his daughter reminded him of the time during her childhood when he told her that if a person only ever looks forward, their view will be quite narrow. So instead, by walking sideways like a crab, one can broaden their view. This made him realize that he was approaching life the wrong way. Then and there he decided to appreciate every new day and take a wide view of things.

-Rithin.

Hues and Dews Poetry