Hiro Arikawa is celebrated for her insightful explorations of societal structures and personal relationships, often weaving compelling love stories against backdrops of military and organizational frameworks. Her narrative style is distinguished by its ability to blend accessible storytelling with profound thematic depth, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. Arikawa's works frequently delve into themes of duty, societal roles, and the human connections that endure amidst complex systems, presenting a unique voice in contemporary literature.
In "The Goodbye Cat," Hiro Arikawa presents seven heartwarming tales featuring cats that profoundly impact their owners' lives. Set against Japan's changing seasons, these stories explore themes of love, devotion, and the cycle of life, celebrating the unique bond between humans and their feline companions.
In the near future, the federal government creates a committee to rid society of books it deems unsuitable. The libraries vow to protect their collections, and with the help of local governments, form a military group to defend themselves--the Library Forces! The Library Forces have decided that a censored author, Toma, must defect. But as he and the LF attempt to leave the courthouse, the roads are blocked by Media Betterment Committee troops! Library Forces member Iku Kasahara and her sergeant (and secret crush) Dojo make off in another direction with Toma. But when Dojo is injured in the escape attempt, Iku is charged with protecting both the endangered author and the man she loves!
RECOMMENDED BY THOUSANDS OF INTERNATIONAL READERS, this tender feel-good story follows a man's journey around Japan with his streetcat. Translated by Philip Gabriel, known for his work with Murakami, it features specially commissioned line drawings. Recognized as a Waterstones Paperback of the Year 2017, it resonates deeply with anyone who has loved an animal, capturing an emotion that enriches our humanity, as noted by Lynne Truss in the Guardian. The narrative is described as "bewitching" and comforting, reminiscent of a cat, by the Sunday Telegraph, while the Financial Times likens its warmth and tenderness to a Studio Ghibli film. The tale centers on Nana, who embarks on a road trip with his beloved owner, Satoru, unsure of their destination but content to be by his side. Satoru intends to visit three old friends from his youth, though he keeps his reasons to himself. Set against Japan's changing seasons, the story unfolds with gentleness and humor, exploring the value of friendship and solitude, and the balance of giving and taking. This narrative has touched thousands of readers, emphasizing kindness and the transformative power of love, both great and small. John Boyne from the Irish Times praises Arikawa's lightness of touch, highlighting the story's themes of loyalty and companionship.