Before the coffee gets cold

A good book! Everyone has at least one moment where they would like a second chance at a conversation with someone. In "Before the Coffee Gets Cold" the characters can have that opportunity for a few minutes under certain conditions. The future can't be changed but understanding, catharsis or a different perspective can be the result. The "what if" quality of the plot is very appealing. This book is quietly thoughtful and can be read in one sitting. It contains 4 stories with overlapping characters. It's still on my mind a month later and I am reading the rest of the books in this series. I highly recommend this bittersweet novel.

This is a heartwarming, poignant, and somewhat mystical exploration of human relationships, regrets, love, and the concept of time. It is a reminder of both the constraints and the possibilities of time, presented through an unassuming yet magical setting - a small, traditional Japanese café. The story takes place in a Tokyo coffee shop, where patrons are given a unique opportunity: to travel in time. However, this is not your typical time-travel story. The rules are strict and somewhat peculiar: you must sit in one specific seat, you can't change the present, and you must return before the coffee gets cold. These rules add a distinctive charm to the story and provide a unique perspective on the concept of time travel. Kawaguchi writes four interconnected stories, each focusing on a different character who seeks to visit a moment in their past/future. The desires of these characters to rectify a regret, to reconnect, to communicate, are moving and relatable. Their narratives are carefully woven together, creating a tapestry that speaks to the interconnectedness of human lives. The writing style is simple, clear, and direct, allowing the emotions of the characters and the moral implications of their journeys to shine through. Some might find this style a bit too plain, and at times, it might seem that the narrative lacks the depth or complexity that could have made the characters more fully realized. However, it can also be argued that the simplicity of the prose mirrors the mundane yet magical setting of the café and the straightforward yet profound dilemmas the characters face. One aspect where the book could have been better is in its pacing. At times, the story tends to slow down, which might test the patience of some readers. Furthermore, while the book's concept is intriguing, the strict rules of time travel somewhat limit the exploration of its potential. However, it's clear that the author's intention was not to write a sci-fi story about time travel but rather to use it as a device to explore themes of regret, acceptance, and the value of the present. Overall, thought-provoking, touching, and unique read. It explores the human condition through a unique lens, offering readers a chance to reflect on their own lives and the choices they've made. Despite minor flaws, the book's emotional resonance, intriguing premise, and memorable characters make it a worthwhile read. This is a book for anyone who enjoys introspective storytelling, as well as those who appreciate a fresh take on well-worn themes.

This book was a slow read and not my typical style, so it may rate higher than three stars for others than it did for me. That being said, it was still a very good and touching story that pulls at your heartstrings, especially at the end. It reminds you to no take people for granted. I would recommend this book.

I can recommend this book, it was enjoyable. Can’t wait to read the other 2 books I bought with same writer.

This book has an interesting premise, the writing style is different, while still being very reader friendly, but I assume that is because it is a Japanese translation. I like the stories and how the each one relates to the other as the book progresses. All information is not presented at once and I enjoyed the gradual revealing of the characters and their lives. I like the novel and will be looking for others in the series to read.

This book is really very good I enjoyed it so much! It's a story about a coffee shop a café with no windows and a decoration in dim light 🕯️ this cafe is very special because there's a chair in that cafe that grants someone who sits on it a chance to travel in time and meet loved ones in that same cafe for a few minutes and one of the rules is, drink the entire cup of coffee before it gets cold. It's really cute and it makes us think about our present time which is a gift and our time "right now" spent with our loved ones is precious. I highly recommend it!

this book has great stories. wish the translation could be better.

Four intertwined stories in this book. Each story involves 2 people who interact with each other in the setting of time travel. The concept of time travel is well-structured by certain rules that are repeated frequently throughout the book. The experiences revolve around regret, love, or redemption. Not my usual style of book to read, but I did enjoy it. Quick read, probably 4 hours or less, but one that I will be ponder for awhile.