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A review by allthatissim
The Cat Who Saved Books by Sōsuke Natsukawa
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
A cat, books, and adventures! I mean, what's not to love about this book? Plus, it is highly recommended on Bookstagram. But unfortunately, The Cat Who Saved Books didn't quite hit the mark for me.
The story revolves around Rintaro Natsuki, a high school student grappling with the recent loss of his grandfather. Seeking solace in his grandfather's bookstore, Natsuki's life takes an unexpected turn when a talking tabby cat named Tiger enlists his help in rescuing books, leading them on various adventures.
The concept of a talking cat and a boy teaming up to save literature is quite charming. I loved the overall message about the importance of reading and books. The wisdom imparted by Rintaro's deceased grandfather about the trials and rewards of reading throughout the story was touching and some of the best moments.
Rintaro's journey isn't just about saving books; it's also about coming to terms with his own situation and the loss of his grandfather, and opening up to the people around him. His character development and growth throughout the story are remarkable.
However, there were a few things that didn't quite sit right with me. The author's narrative sometimes turned into a lecture on reading habits, feeling preachy and judgmental. I totally disagree with some of the author's views on how and what people should read, how they should keep their books. It all felt a bit condescending. I firmly believe that once you buy a book, it's your own business how you keep it and what you do with it. Similarly, nobody should judge what someone does or doesn't read. This preachy narrative made the book drag on at times, leaving me wondering when it will end despite its short length.
Also, the title is misleading! I expected the cat to play the main role in the adventures, but instead, it's Rintaro who does all the saving, and the cat serves as merely a sidekick, and that too wasn't a very likable character. Although cute and charming at times, he was mostly a bit of a jerk and downright nasty. Similarly, some of the "dangerous" missions didn't feel very dangerous and seemed rushed and unnecessary.
Overall, an interesting concept but didn't quite hit the mark for me, sadly.
The story revolves around Rintaro Natsuki, a high school student grappling with the recent loss of his grandfather. Seeking solace in his grandfather's bookstore, Natsuki's life takes an unexpected turn when a talking tabby cat named Tiger enlists his help in rescuing books, leading them on various adventures.
The concept of a talking cat and a boy teaming up to save literature is quite charming. I loved the overall message about the importance of reading and books. The wisdom imparted by Rintaro's deceased grandfather about the trials and rewards of reading throughout the story was touching and some of the best moments.
Rintaro's journey isn't just about saving books; it's also about coming to terms with his own situation and the loss of his grandfather, and opening up to the people around him. His character development and growth throughout the story are remarkable.
However, there were a few things that didn't quite sit right with me. The author's narrative sometimes turned into a lecture on reading habits, feeling preachy and judgmental. I totally disagree with some of the author's views on how and what people should read, how they should keep their books. It all felt a bit condescending. I firmly believe that once you buy a book, it's your own business how you keep it and what you do with it. Similarly, nobody should judge what someone does or doesn't read. This preachy narrative made the book drag on at times, leaving me wondering when it will end despite its short length.
Also, the title is misleading! I expected the cat to play the main role in the adventures, but instead, it's Rintaro who does all the saving, and the cat serves as merely a sidekick, and that too wasn't a very likable character. Although cute and charming at times, he was mostly a bit of a jerk and downright nasty. Similarly, some of the "dangerous" missions didn't feel very dangerous and seemed rushed and unnecessary.
Overall, an interesting concept but didn't quite hit the mark for me, sadly.