I love that publishing has been increasingly picking up Japanese works and making them widely available for English speaking audiences who like me have a deep affection Japan and Japanese culture. Much like Days At This Morisaki Bookshop, this particular publication is a wonderfully cosy and gentle series of interconnected short stories. What makes Goodnight Tokyo different though is that it's all set after 1am and follows the night-time economy of Tokyo society.

The stories can be read as standalone despite the interwoven nature which makes for a lovely and varied series of stories and also makes the book ideal to dip in and out of. The stories and narrative can be quite sparse and direct which enhances some elements of the books, makes others less engaging and in some instances (the telephone courier that seems to dress like a funeral director) makes for quite absurdist imagery in places.

There isn't a large amount of action and overall I felt that this wasn't highly memorable but what it is, is a lovingly crafted, character driven book that is quiet, atmospheric and gives you an effective glimpse into people's lives - like viewing Edward Hopper's 'Nighthawks' but getting to actually eavesdrop on the conversations this time.

3.5* rounded up

Thank you to NetGalley and Europa Editions for a digital review copy of "Goodnight Tokyo" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.