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We'll Prescribe You a Cat #1
We'll Prescribe You a Cat
A cat a day keeps the doctor away….
Discover this utterly charming, vibrant celebration of the healing power of cats in the award-winning, bestselling Japanese novel that has become an international sensation.
Tucked away on the fifth floor of an old building at the end of a narrow alley in Kyoto, the Nakagyō Kokoro Clinic for the Soul can be found only by people who are struggling in their lives and who genuinely need help. The mysterious clinic offers a unique treatment to those who find their way there: it prescribes cats as medication. Patients are often puzzled by this unconventional prescription, but when they “take” their cat for the recommended duration, they witness profound transformations in their lives, guided by the playful, empathetic, and occasionally challenging yet endearing cats.
Throughout these pages, the power of the human-animal bond is revealed as a disheartened businessman finds unexpected joy in physical labor, a middle-aged man struggles to stay relevant at work and home, a young girl navigates the complexities of elementary school cliques, a hardened handbag designer seeks emotional balance, and a geisha learns to move on from the memory of her lost cat. As the clinic’s patients grapple with their inner turmoil and seek resolution, their feline companions lead them toward healing, self-discovery, and newfound hope.
Discover this utterly charming, vibrant celebration of the healing power of cats in the award-winning, bestselling Japanese novel that has become an international sensation.
Tucked away on the fifth floor of an old building at the end of a narrow alley in Kyoto, the Nakagyō Kokoro Clinic for the Soul can be found only by people who are struggling in their lives and who genuinely need help. The mysterious clinic offers a unique treatment to those who find their way there: it prescribes cats as medication. Patients are often puzzled by this unconventional prescription, but when they “take” their cat for the recommended duration, they witness profound transformations in their lives, guided by the playful, empathetic, and occasionally challenging yet endearing cats.
Throughout these pages, the power of the human-animal bond is revealed as a disheartened businessman finds unexpected joy in physical labor, a middle-aged man struggles to stay relevant at work and home, a young girl navigates the complexities of elementary school cliques, a hardened handbag designer seeks emotional balance, and a geisha learns to move on from the memory of her lost cat. As the clinic’s patients grapple with their inner turmoil and seek resolution, their feline companions lead them toward healing, self-discovery, and newfound hope.
297 pages, Hardcover
First published March 8, 2023
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October 7, 2024
my kind of medicine
(thanks to the publisher for the e-arc)
(thanks to the publisher for the e-arc)
September 3, 2024
Winner of the 2023 Kyoto Book Prize
Written by Syou Ishida, translated to English by E. Madison Shimoda-A bestseller in Japan, due to be published in seventeen languages
Tucked away in an old building at the end of a narrow alley in Kyoto, the “Kokoro Clinic for the Soul” can ONLY be found by people who are struggling in their lives and genuinely need help.
Directions to the Clinic are cryptic-you will be given the names of streets that intersect in four directions.
And, prospective patients will only hear about the Clinic indirectly-like from “a former colleague who passed the name along after his younger brother’s wife’s cousin’s company’ client recommended it”-for example. 😳
But what is MOST unusual is the medicine.
If you manage to get past the beautiful but disagreeable receptionist/nurse and are allowed to see the Doctor-you will be prescribed a CAT to treat what ails you-selected especially for you. The cat will come with a leaflet describing care, and all essential supplies.
It is IMPORTANT to follow all instructions CAREFULLY.
The book is a collection of separate but loosely connected life affirming vignettes, which can be read one DOSE at a time, or in one sitting.
Patient: Shuta Kagawa -presents with Insomnia, Tinnitus and loss of appetite. Unhappy at work.
RX: (prescription) Bee, a female gray cat. Mixed breed, Estimated to be 8 years old. Take for 7 days
Patient: Yusaku Koga- also presents with insomnia and a work related problem-a new colleague
RX: Margot. Female, estimated age 3 years old. Mixed breed. Sensitive to bad smells. Take for 10 days
Patient: Aoba Minamida-age ten-4th grade. Presents with trouble with cliques at school.
RX: Koyuki aged 2 1/2 months. Fluffy, white kitten. Take for as long as needed.
Patient: Tomoka Takamine Presents as a Perfectionist who cannot forgive the shortcomings of others
RX: Tank. Male. Two years old. American shorthair. Take for two weeks.
Patient: Ms. Ami Takeda ( Abino) Presents with guilt, inability to forgive herself and a broken heart
RX: Mimita Male. Five months old. Breed Scottish Fold. Take for 10 days
Oh how these cats work in mysterious ways to achieve the desired results!
The stories are hopeful and heartwarming and all cat lovers will recognize the deep bonds formed between human and feline that perhaps only a person who has been owned by a cat will understand-
I LOVED this concept! 😻
Cats are considered a symbol of good luck in Japan, and I know I have been blessed to have cats in my life!
I had been wanting to read Japanese literature and this was the purrfect book to start with. In fact, I may be gifting copies of this unique novel for Christmas.
NOW AVAILABLE! 😻
Thank You to Berkley for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
Written by Syou Ishida, translated to English by E. Madison Shimoda-A bestseller in Japan, due to be published in seventeen languages
Tucked away in an old building at the end of a narrow alley in Kyoto, the “Kokoro Clinic for the Soul” can ONLY be found by people who are struggling in their lives and genuinely need help.
Directions to the Clinic are cryptic-you will be given the names of streets that intersect in four directions.
And, prospective patients will only hear about the Clinic indirectly-like from “a former colleague who passed the name along after his younger brother’s wife’s cousin’s company’ client recommended it”-for example. 😳
But what is MOST unusual is the medicine.
If you manage to get past the beautiful but disagreeable receptionist/nurse and are allowed to see the Doctor-you will be prescribed a CAT to treat what ails you-selected especially for you. The cat will come with a leaflet describing care, and all essential supplies.
It is IMPORTANT to follow all instructions CAREFULLY.
The book is a collection of separate but loosely connected life affirming vignettes, which can be read one DOSE at a time, or in one sitting.
Patient: Shuta Kagawa -presents with Insomnia, Tinnitus and loss of appetite. Unhappy at work.
RX: (prescription) Bee, a female gray cat. Mixed breed, Estimated to be 8 years old. Take for 7 days
Patient: Yusaku Koga- also presents with insomnia and a work related problem-a new colleague
RX: Margot. Female, estimated age 3 years old. Mixed breed. Sensitive to bad smells. Take for 10 days
Patient: Aoba Minamida-age ten-4th grade. Presents with trouble with cliques at school.
RX: Koyuki aged 2 1/2 months. Fluffy, white kitten. Take for as long as needed.
Patient: Tomoka Takamine Presents as a Perfectionist who cannot forgive the shortcomings of others
RX: Tank. Male. Two years old. American shorthair. Take for two weeks.
Patient: Ms. Ami Takeda ( Abino) Presents with guilt, inability to forgive herself and a broken heart
RX: Mimita Male. Five months old. Breed Scottish Fold. Take for 10 days
Oh how these cats work in mysterious ways to achieve the desired results!
The stories are hopeful and heartwarming and all cat lovers will recognize the deep bonds formed between human and feline that perhaps only a person who has been owned by a cat will understand-
I LOVED this concept! 😻
Cats are considered a symbol of good luck in Japan, and I know I have been blessed to have cats in my life!
I had been wanting to read Japanese literature and this was the purrfect book to start with. In fact, I may be gifting copies of this unique novel for Christmas.
NOW AVAILABLE! 😻
Thank You to Berkley for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
September 16, 2024
The book contains five heartwarming, interrelated short stories.
Syou Ishida's writing is both poetic and engaging, creating a captivating reading experience.
After reading this book, I felt happy, relaxed, and healed.
The stories illustrate how cats can bring comfort and joy to people’s lives.
It may remind you of your own cat or even inspire you to get one.
The book also leaves you feeling hopeful and inspired.
If you're a cat lover or simply seeking a heartwarming and uplifting read, We'll Prescribe You a Cat is a must-read.
It beautifully highlights the simple joys and healing power of feline companionship.
The book encourages readers to reflect on emotional healing and how animals can support us in life.
I love this sentence "Her eyes welled up with tears, but they didn't spill over." 😢
Syou Ishida's writing is both poetic and engaging, creating a captivating reading experience.
After reading this book, I felt happy, relaxed, and healed.
The stories illustrate how cats can bring comfort and joy to people’s lives.
It may remind you of your own cat or even inspire you to get one.
The book also leaves you feeling hopeful and inspired.
If you're a cat lover or simply seeking a heartwarming and uplifting read, We'll Prescribe You a Cat is a must-read.
It beautifully highlights the simple joys and healing power of feline companionship.
The book encourages readers to reflect on emotional healing and how animals can support us in life.
I love this sentence "Her eyes welled up with tears, but they didn't spill over." 😢
September 13, 2024
in conclusion, cats for the world peace
—
need someone to prescribe me a cat for this slump
—
need someone to prescribe me a cat for this slump
September 23, 2024
Blog Tour - 9/22
1. Bee ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shuta wants to quit his corporate job. There appear to be some shady occurrences in his sales department. A friend of a friend of a friend recommends Nakagyō Kokoro Clinic. In Kyoto, directions are not given by street name. This particular clinic's address is the intersection of four different directions.
Shuta returns to the clinic, and tries to return Bee. The doctor says he can prescribe a new cat, but since Bee didn't work out, she will be put down in five days. Shuta is horrified, and decides to keep Bee. Obviously everything works out. I won't lie. I teared up a little.
For some reason or other, when he tries to return to the clinic, he can no longer find it...
2. Margot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Koga is a middle-aged man that doesn't get along with the "diversity hire," an upbeat woman. Apparently, other men in the office feel the same, and felt one of them should've gotten internally promoted.
As you may have guessed, he ends up at Nakagyō Kokoro Clinic and is prescribed a cat! Margot is a black and light brown tortie. Problems start when Koga brings her home. His wife is allergic to cats, which he forgot about. He seems to forget a lot. He's not actually forgetful. He's just not a good listener.
When Koga returns Margot (she isn't being put down) to the clinic, he is assigned a calico, Six-Patch. While his daughter thinks this name is dumb, it sticks.
3. Koyuki ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Megumi is Aoba's mom. When she was small, she wanted to keep a kitten, but ended up abandoning it, because her mother didn't let her keep it. She had named her Yuki.
Aoba complains that her mom never listens to her. She wants to go to therapy. I was pleasantly surprised by this, as Asians don't usually have a good view about mental health. But who is the patient? Is it Aoba? Or is it Megumi?
They are prescribed a white cat with black ears. She looks exactly like Yuki. Aoba names her Koyuki, which means Little Yuki. Did I cry again? Maybe.
4. Tank and Tangerine ⭐⭐⭐
Tomoka is a handbag designer and perfectionist. It doesn't take much reading comprehension to realize she is hard to work for. She has been dating Daigo for over five years. He can't keep a cooking job and refuses to meet her parents. I'm judging.
Tank is a ragdoll. Just kidding. Tank is Tangerine. I wasn't skimming, as I've loved most of the shorts in this book, but I must have missed something here.
5. Mimita ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Abino is a modern day geisha. Some previous tenants left cats in a unit. Most sickened.
Chitose, who we have seen before in human form, in the doctor's office, is Abino's cat that disappears. Saddened, Abino doesn't want another cat, although her fellow geishas persuade her to go to the clinic. She is prescribed Mimita, a Scottish fold. Abino starts off cold, not wanting to get too close to Mimita. One day, she breaks. I, too, broke.
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley
1. Bee ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shuta wants to quit his corporate job. There appear to be some shady occurrences in his sales department. A friend of a friend of a friend recommends Nakagyō Kokoro Clinic. In Kyoto, directions are not given by street name. This particular clinic's address is the intersection of four different directions.
East of Takoyakushi Street, south of Tominokoji Street, west of Rokkaku Street, north of Fuyacho Street, Nakagyō Ward, KyotoHe goes to the clinic. He is prescribed a cat. Bee is gray. At first, Shuta doesn't know what to do with her. She doesn't appear to be helping him. Or is she?
Shuta returns to the clinic, and tries to return Bee. The doctor says he can prescribe a new cat, but since Bee didn't work out, she will be put down in five days. Shuta is horrified, and decides to keep Bee. Obviously everything works out. I won't lie. I teared up a little.
For some reason or other, when he tries to return to the clinic, he can no longer find it...
2. Margot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Koga is a middle-aged man that doesn't get along with the "diversity hire," an upbeat woman. Apparently, other men in the office feel the same, and felt one of them should've gotten internally promoted.
As you may have guessed, he ends up at Nakagyō Kokoro Clinic and is prescribed a cat! Margot is a black and light brown tortie. Problems start when Koga brings her home. His wife is allergic to cats, which he forgot about. He seems to forget a lot. He's not actually forgetful. He's just not a good listener.
When Koga returns Margot (she isn't being put down) to the clinic, he is assigned a calico, Six-Patch. While his daughter thinks this name is dumb, it sticks.
3. Koyuki ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Megumi is Aoba's mom. When she was small, she wanted to keep a kitten, but ended up abandoning it, because her mother didn't let her keep it. She had named her Yuki.
Aoba complains that her mom never listens to her. She wants to go to therapy. I was pleasantly surprised by this, as Asians don't usually have a good view about mental health. But who is the patient? Is it Aoba? Or is it Megumi?
They are prescribed a white cat with black ears. She looks exactly like Yuki. Aoba names her Koyuki, which means Little Yuki. Did I cry again? Maybe.
4. Tank and Tangerine ⭐⭐⭐
Tomoka is a handbag designer and perfectionist. It doesn't take much reading comprehension to realize she is hard to work for. She has been dating Daigo for over five years. He can't keep a cooking job and refuses to meet her parents. I'm judging.
Tank is a ragdoll. Just kidding. Tank is Tangerine. I wasn't skimming, as I've loved most of the shorts in this book, but I must have missed something here.
5. Mimita ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Abino is a modern day geisha. Some previous tenants left cats in a unit. Most sickened.
Chitose, who we have seen before in human form, in the doctor's office, is Abino's cat that disappears. Saddened, Abino doesn't want another cat, although her fellow geishas persuade her to go to the clinic. She is prescribed Mimita, a Scottish fold. Abino starts off cold, not wanting to get too close to Mimita. One day, she breaks. I, too, broke.
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley
November 4, 2024
In Kyoto there's a "clinic for the soul" that you can only find if you're given a personal recommendation and comically unspecific directions. You'll be greeted brusquely by an impatient receptionist and be sent in to see the doctor, an odd man who listens to your problems but whose head seems to be in the clouds. You're having mental health issues, but your prescription is a cat. Always a cat. Sometimes two, if the first one doesn't work.
So begin the stories that make up We'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida, the Japanese sensation recently translated into English. It's a charmingly unserious book in which the prescribed cat indirectly solves the patient's problems. Have a job you hate that's giving you burnout? How about if your new foster cat claws the top of a stranger's convertible, forcing you to start working for them instead to pay off your debt? Cured!
Or maybe your new supervisor's toxic positivity is keeping you up at night? You'll get a yowling cat that your daughter loves posting on social media, which in turn will help you see where your new boss is coming from. Miraculous!
If you like cats (duh), magical realism, feel-good stories, and want to experience a whole new take on the cat distribution system, you'll want to gobble this one up!
Click here to hear more of my thoughts on this book over on my Booktube channel, abookolive!
So begin the stories that make up We'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida, the Japanese sensation recently translated into English. It's a charmingly unserious book in which the prescribed cat indirectly solves the patient's problems. Have a job you hate that's giving you burnout? How about if your new foster cat claws the top of a stranger's convertible, forcing you to start working for them instead to pay off your debt? Cured!
Or maybe your new supervisor's toxic positivity is keeping you up at night? You'll get a yowling cat that your daughter loves posting on social media, which in turn will help you see where your new boss is coming from. Miraculous!
If you like cats (duh), magical realism, feel-good stories, and want to experience a whole new take on the cat distribution system, you'll want to gobble this one up!
Click here to hear more of my thoughts on this book over on my Booktube channel, abookolive!
August 31, 2024
3.5 rounded up, cuz CATS!! This one's a bit weird, but also quite nice for any cat lover - the magic realism is a bit different and made for a strange & very abrupt ending, but this story collection is very easy to read & I did not find any of the content to be triggering, myself.
August 1, 2024
This was a unique and delightful book translated from the Japanese. I do love that style of writing which is concise and to the point. The book is comprised of several vignettes which follow the same theme: a person is going through a stressful time and is in need of medical therapy; friends or acquaintances have recommended this particular "clinic for the soul". It is strangely situated at a vortex between some streets and down a narrow alley and occasionally cannot be readily seen until you're upon it. Ultimately, the "prescription" is always a cat. This was quite a humorous trope employed in the book, and the temporary acquisition of a cat ignited emotions such as fascination, adoration, exhilaration, and sometimes heartbreak and frustration. Each experience with these prescribed cats impacted their family life, employment, and sometimes dredged up memories. I was continually charmed, my heart warmed, and often touched by the poignancy of these stories. There was definitely an element of disbelief and paranormal essence involving the mysterious clinic, which added to the suspense and specialness of the book.
Thank you to Berkeley Publishing Group for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
Thank you to Berkeley Publishing Group for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
September 17, 2024
**Many thanks to Berkley and Syou Ishida for an ARC of this book provided via NetGalley!**
"What greater gift than the love of a cat..."- Charles Dickens
You may not have heard of the Kokoro Clinic for the Soul...and it's a well kept secret for a reason. Tucked away at the end of an seemingly empty alley in the heart of Kyoto, much like the Room of Requirement, it can only be found by certain people: those who truly need its special brand of furry, feline treatment. Every soul who ends up at the Kokoro Clinic is at their breaking point emotionally, mentally, and even physically - but every treatment is NEARLY the same. You see, rather than bed rest or horse-sized pills to swallow, the only cures at THIS clinic can be taken home not from the pharmacy...but in a carrier.
For whatever ails you...they'll prescribe you a cat. 🐈
Our story follows 5 different individuals, one suffering through job related strife as he questions his true calling, a young girl struggling to find her place in school, a working dad who feels just as lost at work as he does at home, a handbag designer who just can't put her finger on what is missing in her life, and a geisha who hasn't been able to overcome the loss of her beloved feline companion. While ALL of the patients can't comprehend exactly HOW these felines could possibly help solve their Big Problems, 5 unique personalities emerge and while the results of the 'treatment' are far from ordinary, bonds begin to form, introspection takes place, and BIG life changes follow for all of the patients. And even when a couple of the patients experience some skepticism and even want to take the cats back...it's not quite that simple.
But with cynicism and doubt that a cat could be the answer to all of their problems...will they adhere to the 'treatment' long enough to see the desired results? Or are their problems truly TOO cat-astrophic to manage?
(Sorry, you know you're going to get AT LEAST a couple of cat puns from me in this one!) 😏
Translated from its original Japanese and brimming with magical realism, I was a bit skeptical going in to this read...but it was my LOVE of cats (not to mention the fascinating premise and ADORABLE cover) that pushed me to grab this read...and trust me when I say you'll be 'purring' on the inside by the time you finish this book!
This is essentially a collection of short stories, tied together by the premise of the clinic and each story is denoted by the name of the featured cat. While this book is a translation, I felt it flowed effortlessly and was an incredibly easy read, moreso than many translated works I've read in the past. The characters all felt incredibly relatable and even though their individual journeys were short, I found myself VERY invested in how each storyline would play out.
And then of course, the stars of the show: the Fabulous Felines themselves. There's something special about cats that dog lovers just don't understand (and trust me, I know the reverse is also true!). To be chosen by a cat is an honor of sorts: they are often so stubborn, independent, bossy, and demanding...but can also be the most kind, gentle, and calming creatures you'll ever have the pleasure to know and love, and this book BEAUTIFULLY captured all of that nuance.
From physical descriptors that were so cozy and relatable to capturing the essence of what it means to be a cat and to bond with an owner, Ishida masterfully covered it all. The only disappointment at having an advanced copy of this book was not seeing the ADORABLE illustrations of all of the cats, which I did get a chance to see after the fact in marketing materials, but will no doubt enhance the reading experience! (And maybe get you jonesing to visit your local shelter...don't say I didn't warn you!) 😻
There's an old English proverb that provides the breakdown of a cat's 9 lives: "For three he plays, for three he strays and for the last three he stays."
...And all I can say is, once these 5 Fantastic Felines enter your heart...you'd better BELIEVE they will ALL happily stay!
4 stars
"What greater gift than the love of a cat..."- Charles Dickens
You may not have heard of the Kokoro Clinic for the Soul...and it's a well kept secret for a reason. Tucked away at the end of an seemingly empty alley in the heart of Kyoto, much like the Room of Requirement, it can only be found by certain people: those who truly need its special brand of furry, feline treatment. Every soul who ends up at the Kokoro Clinic is at their breaking point emotionally, mentally, and even physically - but every treatment is NEARLY the same. You see, rather than bed rest or horse-sized pills to swallow, the only cures at THIS clinic can be taken home not from the pharmacy...but in a carrier.
For whatever ails you...they'll prescribe you a cat. 🐈
Our story follows 5 different individuals, one suffering through job related strife as he questions his true calling, a young girl struggling to find her place in school, a working dad who feels just as lost at work as he does at home, a handbag designer who just can't put her finger on what is missing in her life, and a geisha who hasn't been able to overcome the loss of her beloved feline companion. While ALL of the patients can't comprehend exactly HOW these felines could possibly help solve their Big Problems, 5 unique personalities emerge and while the results of the 'treatment' are far from ordinary, bonds begin to form, introspection takes place, and BIG life changes follow for all of the patients. And even when a couple of the patients experience some skepticism and even want to take the cats back...it's not quite that simple.
But with cynicism and doubt that a cat could be the answer to all of their problems...will they adhere to the 'treatment' long enough to see the desired results? Or are their problems truly TOO cat-astrophic to manage?
(Sorry, you know you're going to get AT LEAST a couple of cat puns from me in this one!) 😏
Translated from its original Japanese and brimming with magical realism, I was a bit skeptical going in to this read...but it was my LOVE of cats (not to mention the fascinating premise and ADORABLE cover) that pushed me to grab this read...and trust me when I say you'll be 'purring' on the inside by the time you finish this book!
This is essentially a collection of short stories, tied together by the premise of the clinic and each story is denoted by the name of the featured cat. While this book is a translation, I felt it flowed effortlessly and was an incredibly easy read, moreso than many translated works I've read in the past. The characters all felt incredibly relatable and even though their individual journeys were short, I found myself VERY invested in how each storyline would play out.
And then of course, the stars of the show: the Fabulous Felines themselves. There's something special about cats that dog lovers just don't understand (and trust me, I know the reverse is also true!). To be chosen by a cat is an honor of sorts: they are often so stubborn, independent, bossy, and demanding...but can also be the most kind, gentle, and calming creatures you'll ever have the pleasure to know and love, and this book BEAUTIFULLY captured all of that nuance.
From physical descriptors that were so cozy and relatable to capturing the essence of what it means to be a cat and to bond with an owner, Ishida masterfully covered it all. The only disappointment at having an advanced copy of this book was not seeing the ADORABLE illustrations of all of the cats, which I did get a chance to see after the fact in marketing materials, but will no doubt enhance the reading experience! (And maybe get you jonesing to visit your local shelter...don't say I didn't warn you!) 😻
There's an old English proverb that provides the breakdown of a cat's 9 lives: "For three he plays, for three he strays and for the last three he stays."
...And all I can say is, once these 5 Fantastic Felines enter your heart...you'd better BELIEVE they will ALL happily stay!
4 stars
September 6, 2024
This was the feel good book I needed in my life right now. I laughed, I cried and if there was ever magic I could believe in it would be in cats and their ability to be the cure for all that ails the world. And now I think I’ll always carry a small bit of sadness that I haven’t found a hidden alley that isn’t always there that leads to a fifth floor office with a heavy door and a strange doctor and nurse team with a prescription pad of cat care (forget Hogwarts and bring me the clinic for the soul!). I am an owner of a cat who chose me and filled pieces I didn’t know would need to be filled. This is a collection of short stories that are connected and some of those connections are pretty cool. I don’t see how I could summarize the stories without ruining them or their connections so I will just say if you have a heart and or you like animals you will enjoy this book.
July 4, 2024
Thanks to Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book features a variety of characters, each with their own form of emotional baggage. The cats in each story aren’t just pets; they are portrayed as therapeutic companions that guide their owners through their emotional turmoil. I found the main characters delightful and curiously odd which had me wondering about them all the way through.
”There’s no such thing as a low maintenance cat.”
One of the central themes is the special bond between humans and their pets. What comes across is that the cats in each story provide comfort, warmth, and a sense of hope to their owners. The book delves into how these felines help the characters navigate their struggles and find resolution. What I also liked was the experience of the Japanese culture and how it differs from ours especially in the workplace.
In summary an uplifting and fun book that highlights the therapeutic power of cats and our love for them. Through it’s characters and heartfelt and comforting storytelling, it offers a unique perspective on the healing bond between humans and our feline friends. The art work at the beginning of each story is beautifully done and adds to the books charm. Puurfect for cat lovers.
After reading this I do wonder if there’s a clinic that specialises in therapy for cats after having to put up with the owners and their problems..
The book features a variety of characters, each with their own form of emotional baggage. The cats in each story aren’t just pets; they are portrayed as therapeutic companions that guide their owners through their emotional turmoil. I found the main characters delightful and curiously odd which had me wondering about them all the way through.
”There’s no such thing as a low maintenance cat.”
One of the central themes is the special bond between humans and their pets. What comes across is that the cats in each story provide comfort, warmth, and a sense of hope to their owners. The book delves into how these felines help the characters navigate their struggles and find resolution. What I also liked was the experience of the Japanese culture and how it differs from ours especially in the workplace.
In summary an uplifting and fun book that highlights the therapeutic power of cats and our love for them. Through it’s characters and heartfelt and comforting storytelling, it offers a unique perspective on the healing bond between humans and our feline friends. The art work at the beginning of each story is beautifully done and adds to the books charm. Puurfect for cat lovers.
After reading this I do wonder if there’s a clinic that specialises in therapy for cats after having to put up with the owners and their problems..
October 2, 2024
This is a perfect mildly spooky book for October. You really have to pay attention or you may miss all the subtle details of the supernatural stuff. Especially pay attention at the last chapter or ending.
Highly recommended as I loved it!
Highly recommended as I loved it!
September 6, 2024
I love cats. For most of my life I didn't-- I thought they were standoffish, and that having one would be like having a goldfish. Then, unexpectedly, a little fellow walked into my life, and I became his rescue. In other words, I have a soft spot for cats.
"We'll Prescribe You a Cat" is a cute book. I did not feel moved in any way by it, but the concept seemed fun that having a cat crash your life might lead to solving your problems. For most of these interrelated short stories, you could see where they were going midway through. They were cute. I am glad I pushed through to the end, things changed up a little, but a DNF was seriously considered.
Many readers love this book, so it may be that the tone was just not right for me.
Thank you to the Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
"We'll Prescribe You a Cat" is a cute book. I did not feel moved in any way by it, but the concept seemed fun that having a cat crash your life might lead to solving your problems. For most of these interrelated short stories, you could see where they were going midway through. They were cute. I am glad I pushed through to the end, things changed up a little, but a DNF was seriously considered.
Many readers love this book, so it may be that the tone was just not right for me.
Thank you to the Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2024
The premise behind this Japanese book is delightful! Several characters approach the Kokoro Clinic for the Soul in Kyoto, because they are struggling and have heard from others that the clinic was able to help them. The clinic is located down a strange alley with confusing directions... but those that need to find it seem to be able to.
Once they are admitted into the examination room by the strange receptionist, they encounter a doctor who has a unique treatment plan - he prescribes a cat! Some of their prescriptions are for a few days, a week or two... depending on the severity of their condition. The patients are perplexed, but out they go with a cat carrier, cat, and cat supplies. Once at home, the people are a bit overwhelmed, but these cats do what cats do... and the people are soon feeling joy, purpose, connection from caring for these prescribed cats.
I listened to the audiobook, and it really is easy to just get carried away with these sweet stories. I will admit I sometimes had difficulty keeping track of the characters, because I'm unaccustomed to their Japanese names. While I wouldn't say it's an exceptional book, it is enjoyable. And a reminder that sometimes the path to improving is taking the first step and embracing the unexpected.
Once they are admitted into the examination room by the strange receptionist, they encounter a doctor who has a unique treatment plan - he prescribes a cat! Some of their prescriptions are for a few days, a week or two... depending on the severity of their condition. The patients are perplexed, but out they go with a cat carrier, cat, and cat supplies. Once at home, the people are a bit overwhelmed, but these cats do what cats do... and the people are soon feeling joy, purpose, connection from caring for these prescribed cats.
I listened to the audiobook, and it really is easy to just get carried away with these sweet stories. I will admit I sometimes had difficulty keeping track of the characters, because I'm unaccustomed to their Japanese names. While I wouldn't say it's an exceptional book, it is enjoyable. And a reminder that sometimes the path to improving is taking the first step and embracing the unexpected.
October 24, 2024
The Kokoro Clinic for the Soul is located in an obscure location. It has no numbered address and can only be found by people who have learned about it through word of mouth. The people who go to the clinic are those who are experiencing issues or problems in their lives.
Patients are almost always surprised by the prescription they receive after consulting with the clinic’s doctor. Every patient is prescribed a cat to take home for a predetermined number of days. And each patient’s life is forever changed by their interaction with the cats.
In this book, with it’s five short stories, the healing power of the human-animal bond is revealed again and again. People who love cats would enjoy these stories which include magical realism, endearing animals, and the love and hope which result from their interactions.
Patients are almost always surprised by the prescription they receive after consulting with the clinic’s doctor. Every patient is prescribed a cat to take home for a predetermined number of days. And each patient’s life is forever changed by their interaction with the cats.
In this book, with it’s five short stories, the healing power of the human-animal bond is revealed again and again. People who love cats would enjoy these stories which include magical realism, endearing animals, and the love and hope which result from their interactions.
August 5, 2024
3.5
We'll Prescribe You A Cat is a sweet little book. As an analogy for how we need to treat ourselves, our family and our pets it serves very well.
The basic premise is that troubled people are given the name of a psychiatric centre that will help them. However once they've managed to find the clinic they meet an aloof receptionist and a slightly crazy doctor whose advice is always the same - we'll prescribe you a cat. As we all know looking after an animal of any kind requires love, care and dedication and this change in attitude seems to help the people who came to the clinic.
As I said, it's a sweet little book that might give you pause for thought about the way we treat our own mental health as well as the ones around us that we say we love and care about.
Unlike some reviewers I've not read any of the slew of feel-good books coming out of the far east so I enjoyed this book very much. It's immensely readable, gives you a warm fuzzy feeling (and who doesn't need that these days) and makes me miss my own beloved cat very much.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Random House for the advance review copy.
We'll Prescribe You A Cat is a sweet little book. As an analogy for how we need to treat ourselves, our family and our pets it serves very well.
The basic premise is that troubled people are given the name of a psychiatric centre that will help them. However once they've managed to find the clinic they meet an aloof receptionist and a slightly crazy doctor whose advice is always the same - we'll prescribe you a cat. As we all know looking after an animal of any kind requires love, care and dedication and this change in attitude seems to help the people who came to the clinic.
As I said, it's a sweet little book that might give you pause for thought about the way we treat our own mental health as well as the ones around us that we say we love and care about.
Unlike some reviewers I've not read any of the slew of feel-good books coming out of the far east so I enjoyed this book very much. It's immensely readable, gives you a warm fuzzy feeling (and who doesn't need that these days) and makes me miss my own beloved cat very much.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Random House for the advance review copy.
October 13, 2024
We'll Prescribe You A Cat is a cut above some of the other Japanese best-sellers that have found their way onto Anglophone shelves lately, more nuanced and layered. It’s sweet without being cloying, and insightful without being heavy-handed.
My full review of We'll Prescribe You A Cat is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
My full review of We'll Prescribe You A Cat is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
April 28, 2024
We see the restoration of people who seek help from the Kokoro Clinic for the Soul in Kyoto, when they are prescribed a cat for their ailments. As a confirmed Cat Lady, this poignant and uplifting story truly made my day. Recommended for all cat lovers and those who know how healing feline companions can be.
August 19, 2024
Even before I had the opportunity to read it, as a huge lover of cats and Japanese literature, I knew I would adore this book. Oh, how much I enjoyed it! I thought this book's concept and the unique plot of the story were fantastic.
Each story leaves you with a warm, feel-good feeling that makes it difficult to put the book down.
This book follows a different character in each chapter as they look for help with their personal issues at work and with their mental health. We get to witness their experiences with living with a cat in each chapter and how it improves their lives.
This lovely book captures the enchanted relationship that exists between people and their feline friends. Every page is full with endearing tales and stories that beautifully convey the comfort and joy that cats bring into our lives.
This book can be ideal for you if you enjoy inspirational tales and you cherish cats and you are aware of the healing powers of their company!
Each story leaves you with a warm, feel-good feeling that makes it difficult to put the book down.
This book follows a different character in each chapter as they look for help with their personal issues at work and with their mental health. We get to witness their experiences with living with a cat in each chapter and how it improves their lives.
This lovely book captures the enchanted relationship that exists between people and their feline friends. Every page is full with endearing tales and stories that beautifully convey the comfort and joy that cats bring into our lives.
This book can be ideal for you if you enjoy inspirational tales and you cherish cats and you are aware of the healing powers of their company!
May 3, 2024
this book was a DELIGHT.
as a cat lover, i knew i had to request this ARC from netgalley (thank you berkeley pub). the book was hopeful, sweet, and oh did it hit me in the feels.
my cat was recently diagnosed with cancer and the final chapters really got to me. i won’t spoil anything but you may want to keep tissues handy.
this is a short read with multiple point of views and i read it in a few hours. i enjoyed the different perspectives and unique elements that this book featured.
highly recommend for cat lovers!
as a cat lover, i knew i had to request this ARC from netgalley (thank you berkeley pub). the book was hopeful, sweet, and oh did it hit me in the feels.
my cat was recently diagnosed with cancer and the final chapters really got to me. i won’t spoil anything but you may want to keep tissues handy.
this is a short read with multiple point of views and i read it in a few hours. i enjoyed the different perspectives and unique elements that this book featured.
highly recommend for cat lovers!
Want to read
August 30, 2024omg this sounds like the perfect book for me??
i have 14 cats after all.
but idk about the saying "a cat a day keeps the doctor away"
their vet bills are more likely to land me in the hospital 😩
i have 14 cats after all.
but idk about the saying "a cat a day keeps the doctor away"
their vet bills are more likely to land me in the hospital 😩
June 26, 2024
I love magical realism, Japanese fiction and cats so I really wanted to read this one. (Plus, that cover is great.) I was delighted to get a crack at this ARC. First of all, though, I do want to mention that I would be pretty uncomfortable with this premise in real life: giving a living, breathing cat to someone for a week or two and telling them to take it home even if they don't want it? Absolutely not. But since it’s a book and it seemed like a comfort read on top of that, I was on board.
This is a series of interconnected short stories. Admittedly, the first one started off a tad rough, as the dialogue felt off and I struggled with the way the characters were interacting. Example: I couldn't understand why the main character's coworker was being shamed by their boss for being #1 in their department. Much of the speaking and behavior felt unnatural in this story specifically, but I realize that some of that could have been due to the translation. And the further I read, the more these things improved.
I think the only ongoing issue I had throughout the book was that so many of the characters were mean! In a cozy read, that doesn't feel right. But to be fair, I don't think this is necessarily advertised as such, I just made assumptions. (But come on, look at that cover!) My favorite part of the book was the cats themselves. Their names were great, they each had a distinct personality, and their roles in the stories were meaningful. The way the cats were described? Absolutely adorable. The first cat in the book, Bee, is “bigger than expected” and looks “like a fluffy gray blanket.” Another one, named Tank, has a body “like a mochi dumpling.” I wish I could’ve seen the images of the cats at the start of each chapter, but they weren’t included in the early review copy.
Sadly, my favorite out of all of the stories had a somewhat unfulfilling ending, in my opinion. I could have read a full-length novel with those particular characters. (I’m referring to the one about the purse designer.) A little over halfway through this book I thought, “Wait a second…is what I THINK is going on…going on?” (Turns out, it was!) This author had some fun ideas, for sure. There's some quirkiness to this whole thing, and it will hit you right in the feels when you aren't expecting it. The final chapter tied everything together in a nice way, but it also had a couple of nonsensical things that I couldn’t get past.
I loved this concept, but there was something missing. I can't quite explain what. The stories were a little bit repetitive and despite the author's creativity I was left wanting more. Still a decent, heartwarming read, (*though there are a few sad parts!), and I loved all the passages involving cats. 3.5 stars.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and to the Publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own.
TW: Mention of animal death, Depression
This is a series of interconnected short stories. Admittedly, the first one started off a tad rough, as the dialogue felt off and I struggled with the way the characters were interacting. Example: I couldn't understand why the main character's coworker was being shamed by their boss for being #1 in their department. Much of the speaking and behavior felt unnatural in this story specifically, but I realize that some of that could have been due to the translation. And the further I read, the more these things improved.
I think the only ongoing issue I had throughout the book was that so many of the characters were mean! In a cozy read, that doesn't feel right. But to be fair, I don't think this is necessarily advertised as such, I just made assumptions. (But come on, look at that cover!) My favorite part of the book was the cats themselves. Their names were great, they each had a distinct personality, and their roles in the stories were meaningful. The way the cats were described? Absolutely adorable. The first cat in the book, Bee, is “bigger than expected” and looks “like a fluffy gray blanket.” Another one, named Tank, has a body “like a mochi dumpling.” I wish I could’ve seen the images of the cats at the start of each chapter, but they weren’t included in the early review copy.
Sadly, my favorite out of all of the stories had a somewhat unfulfilling ending, in my opinion. I could have read a full-length novel with those particular characters. (I’m referring to the one about the purse designer.) A little over halfway through this book I thought, “Wait a second…is what I THINK is going on…going on?” (Turns out, it was!) This author had some fun ideas, for sure. There's some quirkiness to this whole thing, and it will hit you right in the feels when you aren't expecting it. The final chapter tied everything together in a nice way, but it also had a couple of nonsensical things that I couldn’t get past.
I loved this concept, but there was something missing. I can't quite explain what. The stories were a little bit repetitive and despite the author's creativity I was left wanting more. Still a decent, heartwarming read, (*though there are a few sad parts!), and I loved all the passages involving cats. 3.5 stars.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and to the Publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own.
TW: Mention of animal death, Depression
April 25, 2024
As a veterinarian, I'll start prescribing cats from now on. Exclusively. Oh, by the way, such a well-written and aesthetically pleasing book.
May 4, 2024
oh, well. to be honest i initially didn't think this book was anything special, aside from its unique narrative choice (re: the role of cats in the story). the writing feels much like other books translated from japanese that ive read. that is, the writing feels blunt and straightforward, sometimes even repetitive. the general themes of the story isn't much different either. just regular citizens with their set of problems, trying to solve them through unconventional means. most of the stories didn't touch me much, though the cats are cute. and there is an aspect of supernatural to the story that keeps you wondering and will make you stay until the end. it was the last story that really touched me. i guess it makes sense, considering it's one that ultimately ties it all together. there was something there about grief and guilt and letting go. and while the book tells it in the context of losing a pet, it can easily be applied to people. it can bring comfort to those dealing with loss. maybe not much, but even a smidgen is something.
oh, i almost forgot. thank you for the arc of the translated book!
oh, i almost forgot. thank you for the arc of the translated book!
August 9, 2024
DNF at 33%, this one was the equivalent of cotton candy - sweet, but ultimately lacking in substance. The plot is a little too predictable, especially for people who read/watch cozy fantasy/slice-of-life anime with magic realism, and even the characters are caricatures. I'm still going to rate it 4 stars because I love the cozy vibes.
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley for the ARC!
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley for the ARC!
October 28, 2024
Minimalist read. More akin to four short stories than a novel. People get cats. People get better with their troubles.
September 17, 2024
Thank you Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this arc in exchange for my honest review.
I love quirky slice of life books like this one! It had me hooked from the second story. The stories are interconnected and all about people who are going through a difficult time for different reasons.
You can take the title quite literally, there’s a building in a shady alley with a tendency to disappear but for the people who need it, it’s there and the entrance door gets lighter when their life does.
They all get a cat prescribed, which gives them a push in the right direction by literally escaping and guiding them there or destroying their work papers or oh my I just realized that cats really are up to no good! But they do get their temporary or sometimes even permanent new owners on the right track again. It was very satisfying and even emotional at times.
I loved this one!
I love quirky slice of life books like this one! It had me hooked from the second story. The stories are interconnected and all about people who are going through a difficult time for different reasons.
You can take the title quite literally, there’s a building in a shady alley with a tendency to disappear but for the people who need it, it’s there and the entrance door gets lighter when their life does.
They all get a cat prescribed, which gives them a push in the right direction by literally escaping and guiding them there or destroying their work papers or oh my I just realized that cats really are up to no good! But they do get their temporary or sometimes even permanent new owners on the right track again. It was very satisfying and even emotional at times.
I loved this one!
September 29, 2024
Five glowing stars for the concept: a vaguely mysterious clinic that prescribes cats for whatever ails you. It's hard to get more wholesome or cozy than this!
Three stars for execution: while I loved the first segment, I lost myself a bit in later characters. I think this may be a book best savored slowly in print rather than on audiobook.
Overall, 3.5 stars rounded up.
Three stars for execution: while I loved the first segment, I lost myself a bit in later characters. I think this may be a book best savored slowly in print rather than on audiobook.
Overall, 3.5 stars rounded up.
September 16, 2024
3.0 ⭐️
This novel consists of five interconnected stories revolving around cats and their people. Some of the stories had more negativity than I anticipated as I was expecting a more uplifting and cozy read. Additionally, the stories began feeling redundant after reading two or three consecutively. The first story is the longest yet least substantive of the lot so the collection begins rather languidly.
This novel consists of five interconnected stories revolving around cats and their people. Some of the stories had more negativity than I anticipated as I was expecting a more uplifting and cozy read. Additionally, the stories began feeling redundant after reading two or three consecutively. The first story is the longest yet least substantive of the lot so the collection begins rather languidly.
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