The story begins with a quiet, bookish teenager named Rintaro Natsuki, who’s grappling with the recent death of his grandfather. His grandfather, the owner of a second-hand bookshop called Natsuki Books, was Rintaro’s closest family and his anchor to the world. As Rintaro prepares to shut down the bookstore and face an uncertain future, he encounters an unusual visitor, a talking tabby cat named Tiger. Tiger isn’t your typical feline. This enigmatic creature enlists Rintaro on a series of missions to rescue books from various forms of neglect and abuse.

The book’s structure is episodic, with each mission serving as a mini-adventure. From a businessman imprisoning books in glass cases to an overzealous academic dissecting texts for analytical purposes, Rintaro and Tiger confront characters who symbolize different ways in which literature can be misunderstood or mistreated. These scenarios are both surreal and allegorical, inviting readers to reflect on their own relationships with books.

As we jump to the characters of this book. The main character is Rintaro. He is a relatable protagonist, especially for introverted readers who find solace in the pages of a book. His hesitations, insecurities, and gradual growth are portrayed with authenticity. Tiger, the talking cat, is a delightful foil to Rintaro’s reserved nature. With his sharp tongue and no-nonsense attitude, Tiger adds a touch of humor and whimsy to the story. The supporting characters, though less developed, serve their symbolic purposes well.

Sayo, Rintaro’s persistent and caring classmate, adds a layer of warmth to the narrative. While her role could have been fleshed out more, she’s a refreshing contrast to Rintaro’s introversion. The various antagonists Rintarō encounters are exaggerated archetypes, but this fits the book’s allegorical style.

The Cat Who Saved Books stands out for its unique blend of magical realism and philosophical depth. While the premise might initially seem lighthearted, the book tackles profound questions about the purpose of literature and the role it plays in our lives. It’s a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever been moved by a book which is to say, most readers.

Another standout feature is the book’s setting. Natsuki Books is more than just a backdrop. It’s a character in its own right. The descriptions of the cluttered shelves, the smell of old paper, and the sense of history imbue the story with a tangible sense of place. For book lovers, it’s a setting that feels instantly familiar and comforting. However,while the novel has many strengths, it’s not without its flaws. The episodic structure, while effective for the story’s allegorical nature, can feel repetitive at times. Each mission follows a similar pattern which Rintaro and Tiger encounter a problem, confront the antagonist, and deliver a message about the value of books. This predictability may lessen the impact of the later missions.

The Cat Who Saved Books is a love letter to literature and the people who cherish it. It’s a reminder that books are more than just ink and paper. They’re a bridge between minds, a source of comfort, and a catalyst for change. While the story may not break new ground in terms of plot or character development, its heartfelt message and unique charm make it a memorable read.