“If you could go back in time, who would you want to meet?”

Quick Stats:

Title: Before the Coffee Gets Cold

Author: Toshikazu Kawaguchi

Genre: Japanese Literary Fiction / Fantasy

Publisher & Year of Publication: November 17, 2020

Reading Form: Physical (I borrowed it from my school library!)

Page Count: 272

How long did it take me to finish this book? — 3 days

Rating: 6/5 — My current favorite book of all time!

Would I re-read it? — 100%

Three words to describe this book: Life changing, emotional, and inspiring

First Impressions:

I first picked this book up at my school library because of three things. 1) The minimalistic cover is beautiful. 2) I felt moved to take advantage of my school library now that I am a senior and won’t have access to borrowing books this semester. 3) I felt a book slump approaching.

I think it’s from all the romance novels I have been reading, and thought it’s time to switch it up with a new genre: Japanese literary fiction.

Reading this book felt like discovering a gold mine in the world of literature. I had no idea how beautiful and captivating Japanese literary fiction could be. This genre focuses on character development over plot, often blends surrealism with a touch of magical realism, and explores profound themes like politics, life and death, good and evil, and the impact of relationships. I hadn’t realized there was so much out there beyond my usual romance and fantasy reads. After finishing each chapter, I often felt the need to put the book down and reflect on myself and my own life.

Going into this book, I knew it would be different from my typical reads. I expected the magical elements to be subtle and straightforward, since the focus was less on plot and more on the characters. I made a conscious effort to mentally map the characters and absorb their traits and life circumstances.

The setting of this novel was incredible. I loved that it was set in Tokyo and centered around a cafe depicted as old and run-down. The cafe was underground and difficult to find for most customers, which made it feel intimate and mysterious. Only a handful of patrons would pop in at a time, yet it somehow stayed bustling. How does a cafe survive without a constant flow of customers? Reading this book made me feel like I, too, was a customer, privileged to know the secrets of this hidden spot.

Themes and Message

This novel has themes of perception and the idea of looking at a glass of water as “half full” as opposed to “half empty.” Specifically, the author elucidates the concept that decisions made in the past impact our present lives, and instead of living with regret and guilt, we should view our experiences through a positive lens.

The book has four chapters, each one following a different set of characters and social dilemmas. Within each chapter, relationships and choices cause someone to time travel, forcing them to reflect on their current situation. Through the characters’ experiences and interactions with those they meet in the past, they return to the present filled with hope, leaving the reader touched and reminded that our present and future can also be filled with hope.

The novel also prompts readers to question their own current situations and consider how they can approach their problems with a more positive perspective.

Writing Style and Pacing

The writing style was easy to fall in love with. The author sweeps you off your feet and transports you to Japan! This novel is written with vivid imagery and a strong focus on character complexity. Each chapter is quite long, averaging about 40 pages; however, the author does a great job of driving the plot so that the reader remains engaged.

The characters are relatable and lovable. I believe that even those who are not regular readers could easily read this book and finish it quickly because the writing is both whimsical and straight to the point.

Final Thoughts

About a week after finishing this book, I am still thinking about it. That’s how I know it was a five-star read. The characters and storyline left a mark on my heart. This book is a prime example of why I love to read and how fictional stories can change your perspective on life.

Because of this book, when I ruminate on my life and the decisions I’ve made in the past, I remind myself that everything happens for a reason. Instead of being frustrated or upset about what has happened, I should take that energy and move forward with grace and happiness. While this book may carry messages that lean toward “self-help,” I believe it ultimately conveys an important message about free will and choice.

It is a beautiful story, and everyone with ears, eyes, and a brain should consume it. This magical café will always have a place in my heart.

By far this is the best book I’ve read this year and is now part of my favorite books of all time list. I will never stop recommending this book.