Tales from the Cafe

Bookseller recommendation

“In this engrossing and creative sequel to Before the Coffee Gets Cold, Kawaguchi brings us more intriguing tales of people who want to travel in time to spend a few more moments with someone important to them. As they explain why they wish to travel back or, more rarely, forward in time, we learn not only about them but also more about the cafe owner and employees. Kawaguchi weaves and connects their stories with great skill and insight into human nature and relationships. I loved being back in the cafe with new customers, and I especially loved learning more about those I already knew from the first novel as details of their lives gradually unfolded, woven through the new tales. This marvelous book can easily stand alone, but for the full picture and listening pleasure, listen first to Before the Coffee Gets Cold.”

— Nancy • Raven Book Store

Bookseller recommendation

“This lyrical sequel to Before the Coffee Gets Cold follows four characters who travel forward and backward in time to meet friends, lovers and family, using the magical coffee served at Tokyo’s café Finiculi Finicula. The time travelers cannot change the past or the present by their travels, so why do they bother? Kawaguchi tenderly explores that why, gently inviting his audience to realize just how important our seemingly insignificant daily actions and kindnesses can become. Narrator and actor Kevin Shen brilliantly brings the café denizens to life, from a seven-year-old girl to an aging mother. Through his narration we see the café and come to care deeply about the family running the café and their customers. Because, in the end, happiness is what matters.”

— Claire • Honest Dog Books