In More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, Satoshi Yagisawa returns to the tranquil, book-filled world of Jimbocho, Tokyo, with a gentle yet poignant exploration of family, love, loss, and the power of books to heal. This sequel to the internationally acclaimed Days at the Morisaki Bookshop continues the story of Takako, her uncle Satoru, and their quaint second-hand bookstore, deepening both their personal relationships and the role of the bookshop in their lives.
Set against the backdrop of the quiet streets of Tokyo’s famed Jimbocho neighbourhood, the narrative captures the everyday charm of life at the Morisaki Bookshop. Takako, who has changed since the events of the previous book, now works at a design studio and finds themself in a new relationship, but her bond with the bookstore remains strong. It’s the place she returns to in moments of reflection, and where her uncle and aunt continue to run the business. Yet, as time passes, Satoru faces a dilemma - should he keep the shop open, or is it time to close its doors forever? Takako’s role in reminding her uncle of the bookstore’s importance becomes central, especially when tragedy strikes and the small community’s love for books becomes a source of comfort.
Yagisawa’s ability to bring to light the beauty of simple, everyday interactions shines through as he introduces a cast of quirky and memorable new regulars at the shop, from an old man in a ragged sweater to a book collector obsessed with official author stamps. These interactions and the bookstore itself serve as reminders of how books (and literature generally) can connect people across generations and help them through life’s challenges.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its tender portrayal of relationships. While Days at the Morisaki Bookshop focused on Takako’s personal journey through heartbreak, More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop shifts focus to the broader dynamics between the characters who frequent the shop, especially the deepening bond between Takako and her uncle. The novel also touches on the enduring love between Satoru and his wife, Momoko, who has returned after a long separation. Through the bookstore, these relationships grow, showing how books, much like the people in our lives, can provide solace and understanding.
The narrative flows with a slow, measured pace, reflecting the calm nature of the bookshop itself. At times, the writing feels almost like a quiet meditation on the power of books and the ways they shape and enrich our lives. Yagisawa’s style may seem simple, but within this simplicity lie profound moments that sneak up on readers, creating a deeply emotional impact. This understated storytelling makes the novel even more touching, especially for those who cherish books and bookstores.
Though the pacing can feel a little rushed, especially in the first half, readers who enjoy character-driven stories will appreciate the way the novel gradually unfolds. There are moments where the story meanders, and certain subplots do seem to remain underexplored, but these slight detours never detract from the overall charm of the book. If anything, they add to the sense that life, much like a good book, doesn’t always follow a strict plotline but instead flows at its own pace.
More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop can be read as a standalone, but for those who have already fallen in love with the characters and the setting, this second instalment offers a wonderful experience. Yagisawa invites us back to a familiar world where books offer refuge, and where the small moments of daily life hold unexpected beauty.
Overall, this novel is a heartwarming tribute to the magic of books, bookstores, and the people who cherish them. It reminds us that through the darkest times, literature can provide light and comfort. For anyone who loves books, or who has found solace in the quiet corners of a bookstore, More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop is a wonderfully comforting place to be.
Reviewer: Chris Reed
Manilla Press