I'm somewhat waffling on how exactly I feel about this book. The first half was very engaging as we follow Takako through an existential crisis and into her time living at her uncle's secondhand bookshop. Though hesitant at first, she slowly starts to open herself up to literature, the colorful regulars of the shop, and the community around her. The story unfolds slowly, but the pace never becomes dragging or meandering. I liked the laid back tone of this slice of life story, making it perfect for a quiet, calm afternoon of reading. 

The second half shifts its focus more towards the return of her uncle's wife, as well as introducing a love interest. To me, it seems like too much to squeeze into the back half of a book where Takako's emotional journey is already nearly complete. It seems like these events would have been better placed throughout the first half, leading to a better flow. The romance aspect didn't really do enough for me, especially when the love interest was largely forgettable. There are some great character moments in the second half, and I think the aunt's inclusion is valuable, but I think the story could have used some restructuring.

Still, it's a comfortable read for those that have felt themselves changed and moved by literature.