Japanese Lit Challenge #14 Review: Before the Coffee Gets Cold: A Novel by Toshikazu Kawaguchi

My Interest

Thanks to Deb Nance at Readerbuzz who introduced me to this book. I tucked this one away for this year’s Japanaese Lit Challenge.

The Story

Four patrons decide to test the urban legend that the backstreet, basement,  Cafe Funiculi Funicula offers time travel–but with a whole bunch of rules! Each person must obey the rules or …. [no spoilers]. They cannot change things (think Marty McFly starting to disappear). And, your time in the past must end before the coffee gets cold or [Sorry! No spoilers].

My Thoughts

Time travel is one of those things that I can occasionally enjoy. This story was perfect for my current mood. It reminded me a lot of Sarah Addison Allen–just a touch of magic. I liked the real world way the patrons responded to or learned from their experiences. There is a sweet poignancy to the story that never gets too precious of cloying–it is realistic. This is a quick, light read but well worth it.

My Verdict

4.0

Before the Coffee Gets Cold: A Novel by Toshikazu Kawaguchim

I listened to the audio version.