REVIEW: The Guest Cat by Takashi Hiraide

A couple in their thirties live in a small rented cottage in a quiet part of Tokyo; they work at home, freelance copy-editing; they no longer have very much to say to one another. But one day a cat invites itself into their small kitchen. It leaves, but the next day comes again, and then again and again. Soon they are buying treats for the cat and enjoying talks about the animal and all its little ways. Life suddenly seems to have more promise for the husband and wife — the days have more light and colour.

As someone who also was lucky enough to be a part of the mythical cat distribution system, my own cat found me and brought me so much love and purpose when I needed some so I felt every single word of this story.

It’s playful, poetic and delicate with lyrical and deeply vibrant storytelling and a delicate tone that radiates warmth and comfort even in its saddest and most heartbreaking moments. The narration is quiet and patient — a moment of calm in a storm, a memory of this time in their lives sheltered from the political and social troubles outside the walls of their cosy home. It moves through recollections in a conversational, casual tone with atmospheric, absorbing details about the places and moments that stood out in memory.

A simply beautiful story about life and remembrance, and the profound impact a cat can have on our lives.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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