"The Guest Cat" by Takashi Hiriade

 The Guest Cat

by Takashi Hiriade

Overall Review: 3.5*

I had been wanting to read something from a Japanese author since a long time.  Every country and region in the world have some or the other mythology, history, cultural relationship and significance.  In Japanese folklore, cats have protective powers and symbolize good luck and fortune.  Due to this reason I had this book in my reading list since a long time.  A husband and wife living in a small rented apartment find a reason in their life when a cat owned by the neighbors start visiting them.  Both of them have started working from home for their literary careers and the cat provides meaning to their monotonous life.  They are able to see the wonders of the nature, the house, the garden all due to the cat.  

This is a short book and I had thought I will finish it in one weekend.  However, it was tough to read.  You need to slowly soak in what the writer is trying to say and focus on the wanders both husband and wife are experiencing.  Such simple things are written beautifully in this book.  Small things as insects coming in the garden, cats playing together etc. are events which are nothing but can provide happiness and meaning in our lives.  

This is a difficult book and everyone might not enjoy it.  The writing is not about a story but discovering life as is depicted in the book.  Apart from the cat the book also talks about the house, the little marvels in the house and couples attachment with the area and the surroundings.  I am also sad that this is given a sad ending.  Wish the ending could have gone towards a more fun direction with the cat here.  

"The Midnight Library" By Matt Haig

 The Midnight Library

by Matt Haig

Overall Review: 4.8*

I would begin by saying this is an amazing concept which the writer has touched and has certainly done wonders with it.  Everyone in the world is unhappy at some point or the other and all our lives are full of regrets.  This book gives you a perspective around choices since we all are unhappy with our choices in life.  The writer takes the heroine back in life giving an opportunity to live each of the lives which she regretted leaving only to finally realize what she has right now is the best life she could ever have.  

You need to be bold in the first few chapters and push through the first few chapters.  Post that all you need to do is imagine yourself in the scenario.  It helps to expand your thought process and discover new ideas.  It incorporates several philosophical concepts and reminds us of what matters eventually in life.  The daily questions that we all put to ourselves - what if I had done that, what if I had take difference course etc. actually only diminish the quality of the current life we are leading.  

I like the concept of the previous lives being kept in a library.  I like the concept that each prior choice could be visited and experienced to actually know the outcome.  This book does not come actually in the self help category but for someone going though strong emotions and doubts in life, this can come in handy. 

Best line in the book - "You do not have to understand life.  You just have to live it."