Have you ever wished to go back in time, even if just for a moment? Toshikazu Kawaguchi’s novel, Before the Coffee Gets Cold, explores this intriguing idea through the lens of a small, unassuming café in Tokyo—Funiculi Funicula—where customers can travel to the past and relive a specific moment of their lives. But, of course, there are certain rules.
The Three Unbreakable Rules
- You must sit in a particular seat—but there’s a catch. A ghostly woman already occupies that seat, and you must wait for her to vacate it before you can sit down.
- You cannot change the present—no matter what you say or do, the future remains the same.
- You must return to the present before the coffee gets cold—fail to finish your cup, and you risk being stuck in the past forever.
These rules create a fascinating tension, as the characters who visit the café don’t seek to rewrite history but rather to find closure, seek answers, or hold onto fleeting moments of love and connection.
A Story Told Through Four Emotional Journeys
The novel is structured around four deeply emotional narratives, each revolving around a character yearning to reconnect with someone from their past—or, in one case, their future:
- A woman desperate to speak to her lost love one last time.
- A wife longing for a final conversation with her husband before his memory fades.
- A younger sister hoping to make peace with her elder sibling.
- A woman who, in a unique twist, travels forward in time to meet her daughter.
Each story is layered with themes of love, regret, and the universal longing for second chances. The novel isn’t about rewriting history but about accepting it, making peace with what’s already happened, and cherishing the time we do have.
What Makes This Book Special?
Kawaguchi’s writing is simple yet powerful, pulling readers into a reflective space where they, too, ponder their past choices and relationships. The novel’s emotional depth makes it a compelling read, leaving an impact that lingers long after you turn the last page.
My Take on the Book
What I loved most about Before the Coffee Gets Cold is its ability to evoke deep emotions. It’s a book that makes you pause, reflect, and even feel a little nostalgic about your own life. The way it portrays human emotions—grief, love, and hope—is beautifully done. However, I did feel that some parts of the story moved a little slowly. At times, the pacing dragged, making certain sections feel slightly repetitive. But despite that, there were moments that truly touched me—I even found myself getting emotional while reading some passages.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read
If you enjoy books that make you think and feel, this one is definitely worth picking up. It’s a short read but packs a profound emotional punch. The premise is unique, the storytelling is heartfelt, and the themes of love, loss, and acceptance make it an unforgettable experience.
