Embedded Files
Before the Coffee gets Cold
Name: Before The Coffee Gets Cold
Author: Toshikazu Kawaguchi
Genre: Fiction, Time travel, Whimsical, Magical realism
Pace: Medium to Fast
Level: beginner
Review -
If the lyrics of "That old familiar body ache, the snaps from the same little breaks in your soul, you know when it's time to go" (from "It's Time to Go" by Taylor Swift) were turned into a book, they would be this one.
'Before the Coffee Gets Cold," written by Toshikazu Kawaguchi, is the first book in the series of the same name. It revolves around a peculiar Japanese café that is steeped in urban legend and allows visitors to time travel—though they must return before their coffee gets cold. This short and simple book, containing fewer than 250 pages, can easily be read in a day. It features different characters, each with unique personalities, dealing with their own issues while traveling through time to find closure. The book is divided into four interconnected short stories.
With my recent liking and curiosity for Japanese culture, whether that includes food, anime, shows, music or even their horror stories (listen to Kaiden, a horror stories podcast, on Spotify NOW), I've always been keen on getting into Japanese literature. For me, what stands out in Japanese stories is how limitless they are in their creativity, with the craziest plot lines and twists and concepts and yet they make the whole thing feel real. Naturally, I had to pick this book up.
And it did not disappoint. Reading this felt like I have woken up on a lazy Sunday morning where Monday is off, and I get to chill and drink my coffee and watch the sunrise (too specific, eh?).
It's a light read that can make one question The meaning of different things. It's not heavy to read in any way, it's a really light read with no heavy words, something that does not need full concentration. It's a good book if you're in a reading slump or are in a reading fatigue. Also, a good book to reach your reading goal this year.
Characters -
The characters of this book have been intriguing. The characters have had so much individuality and different personalities. I really wished to have known some characters outside the cafe like Kazu, a barista working in the cafe. The characters are well written and enough written about that you wish that they were your friends or you get to interact with them.
I really don't have a lot to say other than I loved reading this on a lazy summer day with no work. The story reminded me of how important closure is in one's life. The cafe allowed different people to find closure in their stories and come back to the present, living a happier and more fulfilling life. Whether it be lovers or siblings or a child and mother, different people in different places of life in their griefs need to find closure to live a better life.
If you're a reader, who does not necessarily read for the plot but for the warm fuzzy vibes, and closing the book with a small smile, this book is for you.
I'm eagerly looking forward to reading the next three books in the series and entering another whimsical world.
One-line review: a good one-sitting read on a lazy day
Favourite characters: Kazu
Soundtrack: Suzume ft toaka by RADWHIMPS
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse