Historias de la librería Morisaki (B4P TAPA DURA): Incluye "Mis días en la librería Morisaki" y "Una velada en la librería Morisaki"

森崎書店の日々(Days at the Morisaki Bookshop) #1-2

by Satoshi Yagisawa

A beautiful, collectable hardback that brings together Days at the Morisaki Bookshop and More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop in one volume.

A young woman, lost and heartbroken. Her eccentric, optimist uncle. His wife, with a mysterious secret. Here, in this ramshackle bookshop in the Jimbocho area of Tokyo, these three people will heal their hearts, find connection and overcome loneliness.

Hidden away, the Morisaki Bookshop is a booklover's paradise. On a quiet corner in an old wooden building, the shop is filled with hundreds of second-hand books. Here is where Takako comes to nurse a broken heart, finding within its crowded shelves books to soothe and uplift her flagging spirits. Over the course of two novels, Days at the Morisaki Bookshop and More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, Takako and her uncle Satoru discover their similarities and differences, and learn all about life, love and the healing power of books.

Genres: Fiction, Books About Books, Japan, Cozy, Japanese Literature, Audiobook, Contemporary

352 pages, Paperback

Published November 25, 2025

About the author

八木沢 里志 (Satoshi Yagisawa) was born in Chiba, Japan, in 1977. Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, his debut novel, was originally published in 2009 and won the Chiyoda Literature Prize.

千葉県生まれ。日本大学芸術学部を卒業する。2008年、『森崎書店の日々』で東京都千代田区が主催する第3回ちよだ文学賞を受賞し、デビュー。2010年、同作が菊池亜希子主演で映画化される。神田伯剌西爾によく訪れ、コーヒーを嗜む。趣味はギター。

Reviews

[Ankit Saxena · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2/3 A Warm, Heartfelt Goodbye Wrapped in Pages. A perfect, soul-soothing read that leaves you smiling but with slightly misty-eyes.

"With Love from the Morisaki Bookshop" by Satoshi Yagisawa is a tender and deeply satisfying beloved series. I got this Hardcover Combo or say 2-in-1 book contains both part of the series in this one book. It has lovely Cover with amazing ivory-creamy pages. In first part, Story was brief yet emotionally rich, it carries a quiet warmth that feels like a personal letter to every book lover. Whereas in second part, the familiar comfort of the Morisaki Bookshop returns, but this time with a sense of closure, gratitude and gentle fulfillment.
With Love from the Morisaki Bookshop is a tender, soul-soothing journey that beautifully blends both parts of the series into one emotionally fulfilling experience. Across the two books, Yagisawa gently explores heartbreak, healing, family bonds and the quiet power of books to mend what life breaks. The first part introduces us to emotional drifting, while the second to loss and deepens those feelings with maturity, self-realisation and a stronger sense of belonging. Though the narrative flows at an unhurried pace, it is precisely this slowness that allows emotions to sink in deeply. Together, both parts feel complete—like a warm letter written with care—making this series a comforting, reflective and deeply human reading experience that stays with you long after the final page.

Part #1 : ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Gentle, Soul-Soothing Love Letter to Books and Healing

'Days at the Morisaki Bookshop' is a quiet, comforting novel that wraps the reader in warmth from the very first page. Set in Tokyo’s charming Jinbōchō district of second-hand bookstores, the story beautifully captures how books, solitude and human connections can mend a broken heart.

Takako’s journey, from emotional exhaustion to self-rediscovery, feels deeply relatable and tenderly written. The Morisaki Bookshop itself becomes more than just a setting; it is a sanctuary where time slows down, words heal and life gently finds its rhythm again. Yagisawa’s prose is simple yet profound, allowing small moments like shared meals, silent reading hours, casual conversations to carry immense emotional weight.

What truly shines is the novel’s ability to celebrate introversion, the comfort of routine and the quiet power of literature without ever feeling heavy or forced. It’s a story that doesn’t shout to be heard but lingers softly.

A perfect read, specially for those who're seeking calm, hope and rejuvenation. A heartfelt reminder that sometimes losing your way is exactly how you find yourself.


Part #2 : ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ A Deeper, More Reflective Return to the Morisaki Bookshop

'More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop' revisits the beloved world of Jinbōchō with a calmer, more introspective tone. The story unfolds at a noticeably slower pace than the first book, but instead of feeling like a drawback, this unhurried rhythm allows the emotions to sink in more deeply.

This second part of the series leans heavily into maturity—of relationships, of self-awareness and of acceptance. While first part focused on healing and rediscovery, this installment explores emotional depth, unresolved feelings and the quiet complexities of moving forward. The characters feel more layered, their silences more meaningful and their choices more human, be it Takako, Satoru and Momoko or Sabu, Takano & Tomo.

The Morisaki Bookshop once again stands as a comforting anchor, but here it also becomes a space for reflection rather than refuge. Yagisawa’s gentle prose captures subtle emotional shifts with grace, proving that growth doesn’t always come through dramatic change, but through understanding and patience.

Despite its slow pace, the novel resonates strongly because of its emotional richness. It may take its time, but it rewards the reader with a more profound and lingering connection—making it a worthy and heartfelt continuation of the series. Author's simple, graceful writing once again proves that small moments and soft emotions can leave the strongest impact. It’s a beautiful reminder of how books connect lives, heal hearts and stay with us long after the final chapter.


Here are few Quotes that made me belong here more than just as a reader:

"...Maybe it takes a longtime to figure out what you're truly searching for. Maybe you spend your whole life just to figure out a small part of it." - Uncle Satoru

"I have been enjoying this little vacation from my life for a long time already. If I don't go now to look for the place where I belong, I might end up never finding it." - Takako

'Sharing your thoughts with someone seems so simple, but at times it can be surprisingly difficult. Even more so when it's someone you care so much for.' - Takako

"So don’t ever try to hide from the sadness. When it comes, cry it out. It’s better to keep moving forward with that sadness; that’s what it means to live." - Momoko

"Choose to be with the people who really choose you, people who see you as irreplaceable." – Momoko

"If you won’t open your heart, it’s selfish to expect the other person alone to open theirs to you. don’t you think?" - Momoko

"People forget all kinds of things. They live by forgetting. Yet out thoughts endure, the way waves leave traces in the sand." - Uncle Satoru

"You’re right. The way they shaped their feelings made them last. It’s amazing, isn’t it? And it’s not just writers. All artists are incredible. We can learn so much from the work passed down to us from our ancestors" - Uncle Satoru

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this as a special edition hardback with both books in one, which was perfect, making it feel like one story & one that I can keep forever.

I think this is a special read for all book lovers. Who wouldn't want to trade places with Takako & spend just one night above the Morisaki bookshop? Or wander aimlessly around the bookshops in Jimbocho, which truly sounds like a book lovers paradise.

I also loved the recommendations for some original Japanese authors I have already ordered Kokoro & In praise of Shadows & I am excited to read them in the coming months.

The cast of characters is unforgettable, making Momokos' passing within the story feel like a genuine loss.

In book 2, page 136, there is a beautiful paragraph that ends with a really poignant sentence

"...its better to keep moving forward with that sadness; that's what it means to live."

For me books are such an important part of living, we learn so much about different countries & cultures, making them very precious. Having spent the past week immersed in the Morisaki Bookshop, it now feels like part of me! Thank you to the author & translator for bringing this to the world.

[Andrea Villa Lozano · Rating 2 out of 5]

Me ha parecido que trata de ser acogedor y profundo pero se queda en superficial y básico. No se si el problema es la traducción o el libro en sí.

[zaheerah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two books in one special edition!
I've already read the first one and I read the sequel in this edition! I thought Book 1 was sweet and wholesome. Book 2 devastated me! I was wondering how the author would do in book 2 since I thought Book 1 was already a lovely standalone type of story. But Satoshi Yagisawa really said F U you getting all the angst FROM EVERYONE!!!

[Mercedes Baquero · Rating 3 out of 5]

Un libro agradable, sencillo, reconfortante. Las historias que suceden en esta librería de viejo en Tokio pasan en todas las vidas. El ritmo tan pausado y contenido, tan japonés, proporciona paz a quien lo lee.

[Paola Simonetti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Un semplice racconto che trasmette calde emozioni. Le cose piu semplici e apparentemente banali sono quelle che scaldano il cuore. "Vivere equivale a dimenticare. Tuttavia i nostri pensieri e le nostre emozioni rimangono con noi come i solchi disegnati dalle onde sulla sabbia". Viene davvero voglia di farci un giro a Jinbocho.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh oh oh, hoe één hoofdstuk me zo kan breken en hoe het me ook zo kan helen. Wat houd ik toch van lezen.

Het heerlijke van een omnibus: ik kan beide delen gelijk doorlezen. En als het komt in zo’n prachtige hardcover als deze - gevonden waar je het niet zou verwachten -, dan voelt het als een echte overwinning. Dus na Days at the Morisaki Bookshop te lezen, moest ik wel direct verder met More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop.

Heel eerlijk? Ik weet niet of het in dit geval de beste optie was. Het begin van het verhaal bestaat voornamelijk uit het ophalen van deel één, soms zelfs met passages die ik me niet meen echt te herinneren uit het eerdere boek. De focus is anders: meer op het leven om Takako heen dan om haarzelf. Of nee, niet helemaal, want we gaan nog steeds veel met haar mee. En dat is goed, maar zeker met de herhalingen erin ook een beetje… langdradig. Dat, gepaard met het feit dat Takako op veel momenten ineens weer in die zorgelijke donkere bubbel lijkt te zitten, maakte het soms lastig. Er was zelfs een moment waarop ik geen zin had verder te lezen, bang voor het repetitieve wat me niet bepaald een vrolijk gevoel gaf.

Maar ik wist ook dat er meer moest zijn. Het verhaal kon niet zo achtergelaten worden, niet na wat ik eerder gelezen had. En gelukkig was dat ook niet het geval. Langzaam kom je weer terug in die warme deken, alsof iemand tijdens je dutje je heeft ingestopt. De personages die je hebt leren kennen krijgen een eigen leven, de diepgang waar in het vorige deel door me zo naar gehunkerd werd. Er komt een reeks aan emoties, waar je rustig in meegevoerd wordt. En ergens krijg je ook het gevoel dat er nog iets komen gaat, iets groots.

Hoofdstuk 14 was een meesterwerk. Het liet alles zien wat de schrijver in zijn mars heeft, en het was fantastisch om mee in aanraking te komen als lezer. Het stond me bij en liet me gaan, en ik ben blij dat ik dit niet las tijdens mijn maandelijkse bloedmaan. De hoofdstukken daarna zijn ook zo sterk, en ik kon niet anders dan doorlezen.

En daarna kon ik niet anders dan dit opschrijven, want het moest uit mijn systeem. Oh, wat ben ik toch dol op boeken.

[Selene Evenstar · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book, to me at least, exists and is so liked purely for the vibes. And don't get me wrong - the vibes are there for sure. Who wouldn't want to spend some time in their lives figuring themselves out, living above a second-hand bookshop on a street notorious for having the most bookshops in the world. The feeling of the passing seasons in such an enchanted place filled with cozy cafes, restaurants and bookshops is magnificent, while I would have liked more evocative imagery, the author still did the job of setting the scene well enough.
Yet the character work felt very one-note and frankly, bizarre, to me. Whether that was a fault of the author for writing cardboard cutout characters with strange dialogue, or the translator's poor job, or just me being a Western country reader experiencing some sort of behavioral cultural shock, I cannot say. Our main protagonist, Takako, is a shy, late-bloomer, with a very preoccupied (one might say, self-absorbed) mind, who has moved to Tokyo, had her first job and first boyfriend and seemingly lost it all in the span of a few weeks. I think Takako was about 25 when the first book started, yet even for a self-described "late-bloomer" she behaved like she was 14 most of the first book (and decent chunks of the second). Takako holds a disdain for her uncle, because he is eccentric and does not fit her vague mold of adult (even though she herself behaves very far from it). Her uncle offers her a job and boarding at her lowest, and in return she treats him like absolute crap for just trying to help. That made it incredibly difficult to me to relate to Takako and hold any positive feelings for her, even though she later finds a joy in reading and treats her uncle a bit better. I wish I could say there was more character development for her in the second book, but nope, after the her first painful breakup and some (alleged) self-reflection on her part, she continues to behave in pretty much the same way in her second relationship, just to a guy that happens to treat her better. She remains as self-absorbed and selfish, and mostly tries to help people because there is something for her to gain - be it good company, a cozy bookstore, or whatever else. Her uncle, Satoru, is a bit more interesting and likeable, yet he clearly has his own untreated traumas from his wife Momoko leaving him years ago. And his coping mechanisms are about as effective as Takako's. I am not going to spoil much here, only that at some point Momoko returns and plays a very prominent role in both novels - the way her return is handled was one of the weaker points of the novel to me. I suppose the author wanted to portray Momoko and Satoru as an old quirky married couple with their banter and inside jokes, but what came out (post-translation at least) was very far from that, bordering on rude and a little (verbally) abusive. This certainly did not read like two people in love, more like two people used to each other to a point of routine, but also annoyed at each other's presence. The rest of the cast also has bizarre behaviors throughout - Takako's waitress friend unable to find love, because she is scared of opening up to anyone because of a one-time teenage crush to her dead sister's boyfriend; Takako's new boyfriend, who suffers from impostor syndrome and is written literally like a robot in human clothing; a boy in love with the waitress-friend but unable to articulate it; Momoko herself unable to make up her mind as to what she wants to do with Satoru and the bookshop. Honestly, a lot of it felt exhausting, as most of these people are above 25 and certainly have no business behaving like teenagers. The most interesting characters are the regulars at the bookstore, yet they are very briefly touched upon, in yet another missed opportunity to make this book better.
The plot itself feels quite preachy and all high and mighty. There are random books thrown in the plot, but very rarely expanded upon, and even when expanded upon, it is in the most obvious, superficial way. It's like the author wanted to show how well-read he is, so he decided to throw some famous (or obscure) book and author names and just moved on with the plot. When the characters are so wooden, and often times unlikable, it is quite difficult to get the plot going and there is not too much plot here to begin with. While the days at the bookshop were intriguing, one would be surprised how much time was NOT spent in the bookshop at all, but wrapping up character's emotional traumas in a neat, tidy, superficial and completely unbelievable ways. I would argue, if you want to write a cozy novel about bookstores, you could make your job way easier if you decide not to tackle issues like loss, death, self-discovery, etc., especially if you don't have much to offer on these subjects.
If With Love from the Morisaki Bookshop was more focused on the bookshop and its' customers it would have been a much better read for me. The book is not bad, per se, yet it feels like a missed opportunity to create something magical in a cozy setting, filled with books and likeable characters (also there are no cats in this book, do not let the cutesy cover fool you!).

[Maura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lettura piacere e scorrevole, lo si legge in davvero poco tempo. A mio parere resta molto vago, la storia è carina ma sembra non avere mai un risvolto inaspettato.

[Cait · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute comforting book that made me want to read even more

[Karen · Rating 2 out of 5]

little slow for me

[Shruti Jain · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I initially started reading the book I was thinking what’s so great about this book as I had heard great reviews from a a friend and otherwise but as I continued reading the story, the characters and the emotions gripped me in. The story is so regular but the way it has been written it makes your heart so warm. And I couldn’t believe but I cried when Momoko died and the way she had said to Takako that please make her uncle cry once she is gone. I have never cried reading a book the first of a kind to make that happen, I was pleasantly surprised myself. The bonding between Takako and her uncle the way it developed felt so great. It is a highly recommended book from my end too now!
I just wanted to read more of it.

[Bryony · Rating 3 out of 5]

The characters felt a little flat, not sure if it's the story that is the issue or the translation of it. The second book was so much better than the first, however the way the characters spoke was so weird. Again, it could be the translation of it or maybe the author wanted the characters to come across like that.

I loved the setting though, the bookshop full of secondhand books, the array of quirky customers some of whom didn't buy books but came in for the tea. I loved the community hub feeling this bookshop was for people, that no matter how busy people are there is always the time to stop and connect with people.

[Corinne Passanante · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Gli esseri umani dimenticano qualsiasi cosa. Vivere equivale a dimenticare".

[Aneta · Rating 5 out of 5]

"It hit home."

[Vanessa Crooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this edition that contains both books, which game me a chance to read one right after the other. But it also gave me a chance to compare them.
My first complain is that, in the first book, though we learn many things about the Morisaki Bookshop, it doesn’t feel like a character of the book, like I expected it to. The second book, however, does feel a little more like the bookshop is a character in itself.
Structure-wise, I think both books are lacking a bit. The first one in particular, to me, didn’t capture me as much as the second one. Both, however, have their moments. Both have strange moments that felt tacked on for character development, and both feel clunky at times.
Particularly, the main character, Takako, didn’t seem much like an interesting character. There might be a big element of cultural difference and culture shock, that I cannot relate to her on almost she does or think or say. She felt very basic. Most of the characters felt like that, flat and plastic.
The reason I’m still giving it four stars are actually two reasons: the first one is that I didn’t enjoy reading this book in English, just like I don’t generally enjoy reading any Asian-language book translated into English. I don’t speak any Asian language, so I have to read translations, but I prefer them in Spanish. They may be very different, but there’s something about the cadence and structure in Spanish that feels somewhat closer to Asian languages like Japanese, Korean and even Chinese. And even if it’s not even remotely similar, there’s something about the richness and poetry of these Asian languages, that “translate” better into the staccato speech of the Spanish language.
I didn’t want to dock points unfairly from this book just because reading it in English made me feel like I was listening to a cheesy English dub of a Japanese movie. I might try again in Spanish.
The other reason why I still give it four points is because, in essence, this is a book about books, and I can’t help but enjoy that. I love trying to picture the Morisaki Bookshop, I love compiling a list of all the books and authors mentioned in the story and thinking about looking them up and reading them, and I love fantasising about having my own bookshop in the future. So considering all that, this book ticked all the boxes, and I would like to read it again.
There are also some very moving moments in this book. And although I felt like I couldn’t relate to the main character and narrator, there were a couple of brief moments, when she’s doing some introspection, that I felt seen. Particularly these two quotes:

“Still, listening to him talk, I realized just how different he was from the image of him I’d been holding on to since childhood. Now that I’m an adult, I think I can understand a little bit of what he felt then. In college, I used to dream about living a life that felt true to my own values, my own sense of things. Of course, when it came time to act on that in the real world, I found I just didn’t have the courage.”

“From that night, I started to think more seriously about my own life. I’d found a warm, calm place to stay here, but I couldn’t remain dependent on others forever. If I did, I would never grow up. My heart would always be weak. I was convinced that if I didn’t leave, I would never be able to start over.
But the moment I thought that, my fears came rushing back. The thought of leaving frightened me. Just let me stay a little longer. In my heart I was still dependent on others.”

Also, I’m very fond of Japanese literature similes and metaphors, and Satoshi Yagisawa paints as good a picture and writes as good a poetry as any other Japanese author.

[Alexaaa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Heartwarming and slow pace book you would loved to read during a rainy quiet day.
Thank you, this is beautiful.
Since I borrow this from my local library, I will take notes on these memorable quotes:


"The short version is I wanted to see th whole world for myself. I wanted to see the whole range of possibilities. Your life is yours. It doesn't belong to anyone else. I wanted to know what it would mean to live life on my own terms" (Uncle Satoru to Takako, p. 30)

"The act of seeing is no small thing. To see something is to be possesed by it. Sometimes it carries off a part of you, sometimes it's your whole soul" (Takako reads Motojiro Kaiji's Landscapes of the Heart, p.36)

"I don't think it really matters whether you know a lot about books or not. That said, I don't know that much myself. But I think what matters far more with a book is how it affects you" (Wada Akira to Takako, p. 91)

"One thing he loved about books was that they could tell him what kind of lives the writers led, how they lived, how they loved, and how they left the world" (Takako to Uncle Satoru, p. 20)

"That glint in his eyes could have been anger, or doubt, or some vague sadness. I gave a silent message to the younger version of my uncle in the picture: it's okay, you're going to meet nice people. You won't have to be so sad anymore. Even if you suffer from back pain and hemorrhoids, you'll be beloved as the owner of a bookshop. So you don't have to worry anymore." (Takako to Uncle Satoru, p. 27)

"Which is why you've got to do your best to give off an aura that says you are not interested in getting any closer to this guy. You can project that. And even as dumb as he is, he'llnget the message. Isn't it better to be true to who you are? Listen, life is short. In the story of your life, you've got to avoid people like that. Choose to be with people who see you as irreplaceable. That's the story you want, you know what I'm saying?" (Aunt Momoko to Takako, p. 45-46)

"People are full of contradictions" (Uncle Satoru, p. 57)

"I didn't hate you. I just had trouble dealing with you. But I don't feel that way at all now" (Takako to Uncle Satoru, p. 118)

"Thank you for crying over me. When you are sad, don't try to hold it in. It's okay to cry a lot. The tears are there because you've got to go on living. You're going on living, which means there'll be more things to cry about. They'll come at you from all sides. So don't ever try to hide from the sadness. When it comes, cry it out. It's better to keep moving forward with that sadness; that's what it means to live" (Aunt Momoko to Takako, p. 136)

"People forget all kinds of things. They live by forgetting. Yet our thoughts endure, the way waves leave traces in the sand." (Takako p.163)

[Ilaria Calamai · Rating 5 out of 5]

Parte 1 - I Miei Giorni alla Libreria Morisaki
100 punti/ 100

Meraviglioso, delicato ed emozionante.

Fin dalle prime pagine, ho apprezzato la sensibilità e l’umanità dei personaggi.
Vite vere, senza fronzoli.
A partire dalla protagonista Takako, di cui ho amato profondamente la fragilità e, allo stesso tempo, la forza nel riscoprire se stessa attraverso le cose semplici.
Perché, come sostiene lo zio Satoru, ci affanniamo così tanto nella ricerca del nostro posto nel mondo, quando spesso sono proprio le cose più autentiche ed essenziali a restituirci la vita.

Di questa prima parte ho apprezzato in modo particolare il capitolo in cui Takako intraprende il viaggio in montagna con la zia Momoko.
Non solo i paesaggi descritti sono meravigliosi, ma le pagine sono cariche di un significato profondo.
Emerge prima di tutto quanto sia importante avere uno sguardo chiaro e completo sulle ragioni che spingono una persona a compiere scelte che, a un primo impatto, potrebbero sembrarci discutibili. Spesso infatti dietro la superficie delle cose si nasconde un intero universo.

Parte 2 - Una Sera tra Amici a Jinbōchō
78 punti/ 100

La seconda parte nel complesso mi è piaciuta un po’ meno della prima.
Tuttavia, gli ultimi capitoli sono in assoluto i miei preferiti di tutto il libro… e forse anche oltre, credo siano tra le pagine più belle che abbia mai letto.

Ho apprezzato molto l’approfondimento su Wada, il ragazzo di Takako, così come la parte dedicata al lavoro di lei e alla lite con lo zio.
Tutti elementi riusciti perché riconducono a ciò che ho scritto all’inizio della recensione, ovvero i personaggi sono profondamente umani, così come le dinamiche che li definiscono.

Come dicevo, gli ultimi capitoli ahimè incentrati sulla morte di Momoko sono devastanti, intensi e meravigliosi, tanto da lasciarmi davvero poco da aggiungere.
Lo scrittore ha scelto di restituire piena dignità al personaggio di Momoko nonostante la malattia, riuscendo a raccontare tutto con una delicatezza che lascia esterrefatti.

Insomma, la mia valutazione totale è 86 punti/ 100 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Una lettura che va ben oltre la semplice media matematica, rivelandosi una bellissima esperienza.

[Sriram Nagarajan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book #43 for the year

What a delightful and heart-warming read this turned out to be. This edition brings together two novellas—With Love from the Morisaki Bookshop and More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop.

I’ve always loved books written in the first person; that intimate voice allows the narrator’s perceptions to unfold without distraction. Here, the narrator is Takako, a woman in her late twenties living in Tokyo. Reeling from heartbreak—when her colleague and boyfriend unexpectedly announces his engagement to another woman—she impulsively quits her job and finds herself directionless.

Just then, her uncle Satoru, who owns a second-hand bookshop in Tokyo’s Jimbocho market, calls and offers her a place to stay above the shop while helping him run it. Takako reluctantly accepts, but gradually warms to her eccentric uncle and his quiet routines.

Satoru, a free-spirited man reluctant to be anchored to one place, inherited the shop from his father and possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of books. His wife Momoko left him years ago, and when she returns without explanation, the story blossoms into a moving reflection on connection, forgiveness, and second chances.

The relationship between Momoko and Takako becomes the emotional heart of the book. Takako’s transformation—from grief and uncertainty to confidence and contentment—is beautifully rendered, but it is Momoko who quietly steals the show, offering wisdom that reshapes Takako’s life.

Quintessentially Japanese in its simplicity, realism, and gentle acceptance of life’s unpredictability, the novel celebrates living in the present without excessive worry about the future. The supporting cast of Jimbocho regulars—sharp-tongued Sabu, coffee shop boy Takano, the lovely Tomo, Takako’s boyfriend Wada, cook Nakasono—are sketched with warmth and subtlety.

The final chapters are especially poignant; it’s difficult to reach the end without misty eyes. If you’re looking for a book that lifts your spirits, restores faith in humanity, and leaves you feeling quietly joyous, this one is a must-read.

[Maria Grazia - Loony · Rating 4 out of 5]

La libreria Morisaki di Satoshi Yagisawa 📖🪷

I. I miei giorni alla libreria Morisaki
II. Una sera tra amici a Jinbōchō

Tōkyō, una piccola libreria nel quartiere delle librerie. Un posto pieno di semplici storie minuscole. E pieno anche dei pensieri e delle emozioni di tante persone diverse.

Quella era la libreria del mio cuore. La libreria Morisaki. Ormai era diventata un pezzo della mia vita quotidiana. Un posto pieno di piccole storie semplici. Ecco perché non avrei mai smesso di frequentarla.

In entrambi vengono trattate tematiche complesse, senza orpelli o mezze misure.
È il primo libro che leggo non solo di un autore giapponese ma anche del mondo editoriale asiatico; avevo fatto altri tentativi in passato ma non era mai andato a buon fine.
Satoshi Yagisawa, ha dato spazio a tutti i personaggi coralmente mostra le loro emozioni, azioni e contraddizioni ma in egual misura ed è stato interessante immergersi nel modo diverso che hanno i giapponesi di vedere il mondo.
Un finale dolceamaro ma ne è valsa la pena recuperarlo, unica nota preparate i fazzoletti io non piango facilmente ma questo libro mi ha commosso 🥺
Come ultima curiosità ho notato che in tutte le copertine c'è la raffigurazione di gatti all'interno della libreria o in questa edizione integrale al contrario vi è un gatto raffigurato assopito su una pila di libri ma nei libri sono assenti.
Sono andata a cercare il significato dei gatti bianchi e rappresentano pace, purezza e serenità.
Un augurio più che calzante che vuole essere esteso non solo ai singoli personaggi ma anche ai libri, alle librerie e a noi lettori.

[Luna's Little Library · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Bonnier Books for my review copies.
Please note that I also purchased the special editions as my own copy of the books and also part listened to these on audiobook.

Book1 review: Days at the Morisaki Bookshop is a short and charming story. I liked the audiobook version and enjoyed having this on in the background as I was doing other things.

The story is in two parts, the first being Takako’s arrival at the bookshop and her growth until she decides to leave again. The second part focuses more on Takako’s aunt and uncle. I wouldn’t say I was emotional invested in the story, but I still enjoyed it. Sometimes nice is exactly what you need.

Book 2 review: More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop picks up a little while after the first book. I don’t know if I missed it by audio booking most of the first book but in the second book, I found Takako more irritating than in Days at the Morisaki Bookshop.
Emotionally the story does get sadder towards the end of the book, dealing with illness, death, bereavement and depression. As such some of that cosy charm that worked in the first instalment isn’t there. While I appreciate the reality and character journey it did mean I enjoyed it less.

[Maggie Timlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A window into another culture.

The Morisaki bookshop exists in the real life Jimbocho area of Tokyo, a district that sounds like a book lovers paradise. A young woman, Takako, finds her way to her uncle's bookshop and mends her broken heart there.

The first book is charming. It tells that story of a person pulling herself out of sadness and looking around to find other who need her. I really enjoyed them change in the main character.

Book two is a few years later. Takako has a job but still has ties to the bookshop. I found I enjoyed this book less. I felt it was a bit more of a traditional romance. I still enjoyed the gentle story and family r lations it depicts.

Both books made me wish I read Japanese so that I was able to read some of the classic that are mentioned in them.

I must admit I found the main character a little without agency. For much of the books she is someone to whom things happen. The things she makes happen for herself, finding a new job, moving out, are not shown as important which I found quite frustrating.


Thank you to the publisher for a review copy of this book.

[Al Imania · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aku kasih bintang 4.75/5

Ceritanya sangat hangat dan membuat hati tenang. Terutama wejangan dari Paman Satoru yang ternyata didunia nyata ingin aku dengar dari orang sekitarku. Setiap masalah yang dialami oleh para tokoh di buku bisa ditemukan pada kehidupan sehari-hari, sehingga membuat pembaca tidak merasa sendirian.

Banyak pelajaran yang bisa dipetik;
1. Cara kita bisa berdamai dengan keadaan duka dan akhirnya bisa bangkit dan melanjutkan hidup.
2. Berdamai dengan masa lalu yang bahkan membuat kita trauma,trust issue ataupun avoidant dan banyak hal lainnya, agar bisa melanjutkan hidup dengan lebih baik.
3. Berani menghadapi masalah yang terjadi, bukan menghindari atau membiarkannya berlarut-larut.
4.

[Ash D · Rating 3 out of 5]

A heartwarming cosy read. It doesn't seem like much happens with regards to plot and conflict yet there are still many tender moments that speak to the heart. Some of the characters can feel a little flat but I think it's just this style of having very transparent and introspective characters; what you see is what you get.
There is an extra layer to these books that I couldn't personally appreciate, a love of books and bookshops, especially niche ones. For those who enjoy visiting small bookshops and exploring those spaces and chasing down titles, I think you'll get more enjoyment out of this.
I think this is a good read for any familiar with this space of cosy Japanese/Korean fiction and for any new to the space, this is still a good entry-point.

[Prachi Modi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop and More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop together feel like a warm, quiet break from life. These books are about heartbreak, healing, relationships, and slowly finding peace through books and everyday moments.
I loved the calm atmosphere of the bookshop and the way books play a comforting role rather than being dramatic or preachy. The writing is simple, gentle, and emotionally soothing, making the story feel like a soft conversation.
Both books are slow-paced, so they may not suit readers looking for fast plots or high drama. However, they are perfect for anyone who enjoys cozy, reflective stories about life, emotions, and the love for books.

[Marion · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was kind of nice. I enjoyed how the book was about a simple life of Takako and the events of the second hand book store.

At the end the book got sad with one of the characters passing away but the way it was portrayed was full of emotions and heartfelt.

I love the settings of a second hand book shop with shelves filled with thousands of books. Love the settings in Jimbocho street with book store after book store; an ultimate highlight to the neighbourhood is the Saveur coffee shop, the community around the store and the support they provide.

[Khyati Gulati Tewari · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a story / plot - it was decent. enjoyed reading how books, reading and bookshops can impact someone's lives. felt the book was soulful.

however, the dialogues were abrupt and didn't add much to the story. and the depth of these conversations as well as the story seemed to have been lost somewhat in the translation.

what I found most fun was r a adding about different books within a book. and what I took away from the book is that live your life in such a way that when your end is near, you are not burdened with guilt and scared about dying.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

At some point it’s almost bitter to read this story. It feels so personal like you’re becoming a part of this world. But the relief and hope that is there to come feels like aa reward and a crucial lesson: “You’re going on living, which means there will be more things to cry about… that’s what it means to live.”. And it’s a beautiful thing.
It’s a story where the characters become your friends and family.

It really became my comfort book. I was delaying on finishing it because I didn’t want to leave it behind. And this feeling resembles with the outcome of the story itself so much ❤️‍🩹

[carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

La narración de esta historia te permite adentrarte en la vida de nuestra protagonista de manera sencilla. Es una historia que transmite una sensación de conexión y comfort a medida que continúa. El final, a pesar de cómo es, te da la oportunidad de agradecer sobre aquello que has leído, tu recorrido como lector y tu recorrido en la vida. Es una historia perfecta para un momento de tu vida donde necesites volver a conectar con ti mismo.

[Mantvydas Salna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the book as a slow read. Started off a bit slow but then picked up as you get introduced to new characters. The life of the narrator made me reflect a lot on how to navigate difficult emotions and the importance of speaking up and voicing your thoughts and feelings to someone. It was slightly predictable in some aspects but nonetheless a good read. It’s the themes that the book makes you think about that made me enjoy it.