Review of THE TRAVELLING CAT CHRONICLES by Hiro Arikawa

3 Stars

I’m more a dog person than a cat person, but my husband and I had cats in the past, so I picked up this book because I was looking for something different to read.

Satoru, a man in his thirties, rescues an injured stray cat which he names Nana.  They live together happily for five years.  Then they set out on trips across Japan to visit friends because Satoru is looking to rehome Nana; “’unavoidable circumstances’ were preventing him from keeping [his precious cat] any longer.”  Nana wants to stay with Satoru and sets out to sabotage the visits so Satoru has to keep him. 

Much of the story is narrated in the first person by Nana, but there is also a third person narrator who gives the backstory of Satoru’s growing up and how he came to become friends with the people they visit. 

Satoru’s character is developed through his interactions with people and Nana.  He comes across as a truly good person – kind and loving towards animals and humans.  Despite hardships, he doesn’t wallow in self-pity and tries to be optimistic. 

Nana’s character is also developed.  He is a proud cat who sees himself as “a rare, wise cat” and “a high-spirited, adventurous cat that will never be intimidated.”  What differentiates him is that he is a cat capable of loyalty and gratitude, the perfect cat for a good man like Satoru.  Of course, it is Nana’s observations about humans and the world that stand out.  For instance, “Humans always underestimate our language skills.  Just ‘cause they can read and write, there’s no need to act all high and mighty.”  Anyone who has ever had a cat will recognize the truth in comments on feline behaviour:  “Cats the world over prefer to discover things they like on their own and rarely go for anything that’s been provided for them.”

In some ways, the book is a self-improvement book offering advice on how to live.  For example, Kosuke, the first friend they visit, learns that it is important to be independent from one’s parents.   Another man’s “sense of inferiority and jealousy diminish” after Satoru and Nana’s visit.  Optimism is emphasized:  “it would be better to keep a smile on your face till the end.  And then I’m sure you’ll be happier.”

The novel is an easy read.  There is little mystery as to why Satoru is looking for a new home for Nana; however, though there is sadness, the overall tone is optimistic.  We are encouraged to think of life as a journey during which we can “see all kinds of amazing things.  Let’s spend our time taking in as many wonderful sights as we can.”