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Synopsis
Editorial Reviews Review “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 About the Author Michiko Aoyama was born in 1970 in Aichi Prefecture, Honshu, Japan. After university, she became a reporter for a Japanese newspaper based in Sydney before moving back to Tokyo to work as a magazine editor. What You Are Looking For Is in the Library was short-listed for the Japan Booksellers’ Award and became a Japanese bestseller. It is being translated into more than fifteen languages. Michiko Aoyama lives in Yokohama, Japan.
Is What You Are Looking For Is in the Library: A Life-Affirming Story About Finding Hope, Purpose, and Connection appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
A gentle, introspective novel about people finding hope and direction through books recommended by a librarian. No content concerns—focuses on personal growth, community, and the transformative power of reading.
What to know going in
This book has no graphic violence, no sexual content, and clean language.
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Adults seeking meaning in their lives will appreciate this quiet story about how the right book can change everything.