Book Review
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi is a heartfelt and imaginative novel that invites readers into a small, mysterious café in Tokyo where customers can travel through time—though under strict conditions.
In this café, Funiculi Funicula, time travel comes with a unique set of rules. Patrons must sit in a specific chair, can only visit moments when someone was present in the café, and must return before their coffee cools.
The novel weaves together four stories, each focusing on a different character drawn to the café with the hope of revisiting a pivotal moment from their past. These narratives are emotionally rich, delving into themes of love, regret, loss, and the complexities of the human condition.
Characters like Kumi Hirai, Kohtake, Fusagi, Kazu, Nagare, and the mysterious woman in the white dress are well-crafted, and their motivations for seeking a journey through time are deeply relatable.
Kawaguchi’s writing is simple yet evocative, blending the magical allure of time travel with the intimate, everyday challenges faced by his characters. The pacing is measured, reflecting the quiet, contemplative nature of the café itself.
Japanese culture is subtly woven into the story, such as the reference to the Tanabata Festival, known for its Sasakazari decorations, typically held from July 6th to 8th.
Ultimately, the novel’s beauty lies in its exploration of a universal truth: while we may long to change the past, it is our decision to embrace the present that truly matters. The time travel in the story serves not as a tool to change outcomes but as a means for emotional healing and understanding.
Book Review
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi is a heartfelt and imaginative novel that invites readers into a small, mysterious café in Tokyo where customers can travel through time—though under strict conditions.
In this café, Funiculi Funicula, time travel comes with a unique set of rules. Patrons must sit in a specific chair, can only visit moments when someone was present in the café, and must return before their coffee cools.
The novel weaves together four stories, each focusing on a different character drawn to the café with the hope of revisiting a pivotal moment from their past. These narratives are emotionally rich, delving into themes of love, regret, loss, and the complexities of the human condition.
Characters like Kumi Hirai, Kohtake, Fusagi, Kazu, Nagare, and the mysterious woman in the white dress are well-crafted, and their motivations for seeking a journey through time are deeply relatable.
Kawaguchi’s writing is simple yet evocative, blending the magical allure of time travel with the intimate, everyday challenges faced by his characters. The pacing is measured, reflecting the quiet, contemplative nature of the café itself.
Japanese culture is subtly woven into the story, such as the reference to the Tanabata Festival, known for its Sasakazari decorations, typically held from July 6th to 8th.
Ultimately, the novel’s beauty lies in its exploration of a universal truth: while we may long to change the past, it is our decision to embrace the present that truly matters. The time travel in the story serves not as a tool to change outcomes but as a means for emotional healing and understanding.
What I don’t like about the book
The strict rules surrounding time travel in the café may frustrate some readers who expect a more flexible or dynamic approach.
Additionally, the novel follows a consistent structure where each story unfolds in a similar way, which can make it feel somewhat predictable at times.
The large cast of characters, while well-developed, may also lead to occasional confusion, requiring readers to revisit the character chart at the start of the book.
About Author
Toshikazu Kawaguchi, born in Osaka in 1971, is a multi-talented playwright, producer, and director, best known for his work with the theatrical group Sonic Snail.
Some of his notable plays include COUPLE, Sunset Song, and Family Time. Before the Coffee Gets Cold was adapted from his play by 1110 Productions, which won the grand prize at the 10th Suginami Drama Festival.
Conclusion
Before the Coffee Gets Cold is a heartwarming, reflective novel that encourages readers to contemplate the defining moments in life and the importance of cherishing them before they slip away. It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy introspective, gentle storytelling with a touch of magic.
