What You Are Looking for Is in the Library - by Michiko Aoyama

About the Book

"'What are you looking for?' So asks Tokyo's most enigmatic librarian. For Sayuri Komachi is able to sense exactly what each visitor to her library is searching for and provide just the book recommendation to help them find it. ... In Komachi's unique book recommendations they will find just what they need to achieve their dreams. [This book] is about the magic of libraries and the discovery of connection"--

Book Synopsis

A TIME BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

A WASHINGTON POST BEST FEEL GOOD BOOK OF 2023

For fans of Before the Coffee Gets Cold, a charming, internationally bestselling Japanese novel about how the perfect book recommendation can change a readers' life.

What are you looking for? So asks Tokyo's most enigmatic librarian. For Sayuri Komachi is able to sense exactly what each visitor to her library is searching for and provide just the book recommendation to help them find it.

A restless retail assistant looks to gain new skills, a mother tries to overcome demotion at work after maternity leave, a conscientious accountant yearns to open an antique store, a recently retired salaryman searches for newfound purpose.

In Komachi's unique book recommendations they will find just what they need to achieve their dreams. What You Are Looking For Is in the Library is about the magic of libraries and the discovery of connection. This inspirational tale shows how, by listening to our hearts, seizing opportunity and reaching out, we too can fulfill our lifelong dreams. Which book will you recommend?

Review Quotes

"There's more to Aoyama's novel than kindness. There is a subtle, provocative thread about misremembering; a pageant of interesting jobs; and a suite of mature, cooperative relationship. [T]he novel is an undeniable page-turner, its mechanism energized by a simple question, posed again and again by the uncanny librarian, Mrs. Komachi."--Robin Sloan, New York Times Book Review

"A charming novel about the magic of reading." --The Washington Post

"It's a tranquil and introspective book and one that'll stick with you for a long time."--BookRiot

"A refreshing and hopeful look at the power of books and the durability of dreams." --Time

"A delightful, gentle unfolding of stories that offer hope and joy to those who find themselves in a pivotal moment in life."--Kirkus

"A comforting read filled with serendipity and simple wisdom, this is a celebration of community, connection, and the transformative power of libraries."--Booklist