Winner of Les prix des lecteurs du Livre du poche 2017 (France).

Three strangers are brought together at a dorayaki shop. This book approaches serious subjects in a gentle way. Cherry blossoms and sweet confectionary lead to understanding the beauty and meaning of life. Enjoy!

-Katrina

'I'm in story heaven with this book.' * Cecelia Ahern, author of PS, I Love You *

'Enthralling...This is that rare book that leaves readers truly humbled, reminding us of everything we should be thankful for, and that it is never too late to do something with our lives.' * The Bookbag *

'Sukegawa-enabled by Watts's lucid translation-tells an endearing, thoughtful tale about relationships and the everyday meaning of life. VERDICT Readers in search of gently illuminating fare-e.g., Shion Miura's The Great Passage, Jeff Talarigo's The Pearl Diver-will appreciate this toothsome treat.' * Library Journal *

'Although Tokue's past is a reflection of a dark chapter of Japanese history, her wisdom, patience, and kindness shape this touching and occasionally wistful novel. Through Tokue's story, Sukegawa eloquently explores the seeds of biases and challenges us to truly listen to the natural world and the messages it artfully hides.' * Booklist *

'A poignant, poetic fable.' * Denis Theriault, author of The Peculiar Life of a Lonely Postman *

'An ode to cuisine and to life. Poignant, poetic, sensual: a treat.' * Lausanne Cites *

'This mixture of grief and solace, cherry blossoms and red beans is a recipe for happiness.' * Radio SRF 2 Kultur Kompakt *

Durian Sukegawa studied oriental philosophy at Waseda University, before going on to work as a reporter in Berlin and Cambodia in the early 1990s. He has written a number of books and essays, TV programmes and films. He lives in Tokyo. Alison Watts is a freelance translator, translating literature from Japanese into English. She lives in Ibaraki, Japan.