"Hafsatu Bebi" by Fatima Bala is a compelling and introspective novel that delves into themes of identity, tradition, and personal struggle within a cultural context. The book centers around the life of Hafsatu a young woman navigating the complexities of her society while grappling with her own desires and constraints.

picture from Google. Credit to the owner

It combines the separate stories of five people — a young office worker not really knowing if what she does is what she wants to do, a mother who wants to find something in life other than raising children, a freelancer loud about being a happy freelancer but whose life is a mess between home and work, a widower who finds himself lonely, and a shopkeeper who has lost interest in the future. Their circumstances vary, but each is visited by Komachi, who, with her almost mystical intuition for what a reader needs, introduces them to books that expand their horizons and open possibilities.

The novel explores themes of self-discovery, human connection, and the transformation power of books. It delves into the idea that even mundane interactions can have profound consequences and that inspiration often comes from unexpected places. It also highlights libraries as spaces of quiet magic, where answers to life’s questions might lie just a shelf away.

One of the book’s major strengths is its relatability. The fears and hopes of the characters are universal, and out of these journeys, their travels resonate deeply. The novel also offers an evocative portrait of Japanese life — its work culture, its communal spirit.

Another highlight is Sayuri Komachi herself, whose mysterious aura and gentle wisdom grounds the narrative. She is proof that sometimes, what we need isn’t advice or answers, but a push into the right direction.

What You Are Looking For Is in the Library is a charming celebration of libraries, books and the possibility of humans. It is a perfect read for a person standing at a crossroads in life or for those seeking comfort in the written word. Gentle, its approach, at the same time, the novel makes its point emphatically, leaving the sense of ourselves as mystics reminding us that the answers we search for exist within us or elsewhere in the faces in this world, and the pages of a surprising book.

TITLE: Up & Down

Author: Britta Teckentrup

“Up and Down” by Britta Teckentrup is a gorgeously illustrated picture book that explores the idea of life’s ups and downs in a way that’s digestible and soothing for little ones. The book has both emotional punch and visual sweep, with its lyrical text and eye-catching illustrations.

The story depicts the ebb and flow of life, saying that just as life has its “ups,” it also has “downs,” and that both are integral to the human experience. It teaches kid to persevere through adversity, find balance and appreciate the highs and the good through the lows and the challenged. With a gentle narrative that reassures readers that hard times won’t last forever, it makes a wonderful first step toward teaching young readers emotional intelligence.” 

The text is rhythmic and poetic, making it ideal for read-aloud sessions. The repetition of key ideas helps reinforce the themes and creates a soothing experience for young readers. The simple, concise language ensures the book’s messages are clear without being overwhelming.