What I Learned in Kobayashi's Bookstore

A Japanese novel about a girl who finds her calling after meeting the owner of a small bookstore.
Rika Omori has just graduated from university and, by chance, has become an employee of a large literary agency. But alas: she has... never been interested in literature, she doesn't even have a favorite author—and even less desire to sell books.
What should someone who isn't passionate about their work do? How to overcome initial failures? Eight stories from the smiling owner of the bookstore will help Rika gain confidence, become passionate about reading, and find her path.

Who is this book for?
- For fans of the Japanese vibe and stories about bookstores.
- For readers looking for comfort and inspiration.
For those who believe that books can change destinies.


The novel is based on real events from the life of Yumiko Kobayashi, the owner of a bookstore on the outskirts of the shopping district, north of Tachibana Station in the city of Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture.

From the author:
I felt that Yumiko's stories would be enlightening not only for those intending to work in bookselling. I too, when listening to her stories, was filled with a desire to do my job as well as possible every time. They teach the most important lessons in work. And I wanted to share these feelings with others—preferably through a book.