The Bookshop Woman : A review

2024 was my year of reading books about books—stories about librarians, booksellers, bookshops, and everything in between. These books only deepened my belief in the magic of reading. One standout was The Bookshop Woman by Nanako Hanada.

This slice-of-life novel introduces us to Nanako, who is navigating a separation from her husband and feeling stuck in her career. Seeking a distraction, she joins a social media platform called PerfectStrangers, where people connect in person for 30 minutes—whether to find romance, make friends, network, or exchange ideas. A lifelong bookseller, Nanako’s bio promises that after a 30-minute conversation, she can recommend the perfect book for anyone.

At first, her bio attracts some unwanted attention, but as she tweaks it to reflect her true personality, she begins forming meaningful connections. Through these meetups, Nanako—an introvert at heart—gradually becomes bolder and more open to new experiences.

What makes this book a true delight are the abundant book recommendations sprinkled throughout. For anyone looking to diversify their reading list, it’s a treasure trove. As someone who’s passionate about reading, I related deeply to Nanako’s joy when her recommendations resonated with others.

I always try to find takeaways from the books I read, and this one had plenty. It’s a gentle reminder to step outside your comfort zone, especially during tough times. The story also reinforces the belief in the inherent goodness of people—Nanako’s optimism leads her to more positive connections than negative ones. And ultimately, it’s about the power of putting yourself out there to create the opportunities you crave.

Beyond the story itself, the book offers a glimpse into Japanese book culture and the quirky, vibrant side of Tokyo and its people. It left me feeling warm, hopeful, and reaffirmed in my love for books.

This book feels like a cozy blanket on a chilly winter night. 10/10 recommend.