A review by duncanshaw
The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yōko Ogawa

lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

This was an enjoyable and charming read. It follows a relatively uneventful and lowkey story of three people, with the main premise being that the professor can only remember the last 80 minutes. In all, a very simple book.
Despite its simplicity, I did get somewhat involved in the world and connected with the characters. I found myself actually somewhat frustrated at the professor's memory loss, much like the characters. 
Despite drifting off slightly during very baseball-heavy passages, I did enjoy the mathematics aspects and I do think it makes you appreciate maths in a beautiful and pleasant way. 

However, that was about the length of it, to be honest. I found it too often be often a bit too simple, surface-level, and potentially not sufficiently complex. Sometimes you want this, though. And I will say that it achieves this lowkey, simple and charming vibe without being cringy or childish.

In conclusion, this is an endearing ode to mathematics and unlikely friendships. It was likable throughout. I don't have many strong feelings about the book after finishing, both overly positive or negative, and I think that sums up the reading experience. It's charming, but don't expect a life-changing read.