I knew this was a short read, I just didn't realize how short. I enjoyed my time learning about the main character and reading about how her neurodivergence has an impact on her life and how she looks at the world. Keiko loves working at the convenience store and by the time you reach the end, it's shown just how important working there has become for her life.  

The only problem is Keiko begins to realize that society isn't necessarily accepting of her as she grows and stays at the convenience Store for 18 years. A new employee, Shiraha, is a misogynistic loser who highlights some of these issues for Keiko. Keiko and Shiraha decide to help each other so they can at least be hidden or thought to be accepted among society. Thankfully, Keiko realizes that even though Shiraha wants to use her so he can hide while she uses him as an excuse to appear normal, that her life really is meaningful because of her love of working at the store.  

While Shiraha is not a character most people would like as a person, he does point out some truths about society that Keiko notices early off in her life as a child. The ending for me was satisfying as she came to the realization that trying to appear normal isn't worth it even if people see her as nonhuman. 

Towards the end when Keiko fixes up the new store she walked into had me laughing. It was like a superhero for convenience stores just waiting to make sure it looked its best and is well organized and ready for customers. Also felt sad when Keiko was realizing how people saw her and trested her like when she realized her coworkers didn't invite her out. Even her manager was more interested in talking about Shiraha living with her when she just wanted to focus on the work. Her sister also highlights very clearly how Keiko is not accepted unless she conforms.

I thought this was an interesting, albeit short, read highlighting the problems of how society treats those they don't feel are acceptable and the problems that arise because of that treatment.