A review by rosseshelf
Sweet Bean Paste by Durian Sukegawa

emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

❝ It’s my belief that everything in this world has its own language. We have the ability to open up our ears and minds to anything and everything. That could be someone walking down the street, or it could be the sunshine or the wind. ❞
❝ I know you may not be able to hear anything now, even if you try, but please don't give up. I fee sure that one day you will find whatever it is you seek, and that the spark that leads to it will come from hearing some kind of voice. People's lives never stay the same colour forever. There are times when the colour of life changes completely. ❞

The book revolves around Sentaro, a dorayaki stall owner, and his unlikely friendship with Tokue, who has a talent for making the most delicious sweet bean paste. This heartwarming and endearing story has provided me with a great deal of comfort. What struck me the most was the author's ability to handle sensitive topics with such grace, making the novel both heartwarming and tragically uplifting. The story had me in tears, and I must say, I sincerely loved every bit of this book. 

The way the author crafted the story was impeccable, and I was completely enraptured by it. The characters are so well-developed, and I found myself rooting for them throughout the book. The friendship between Sentaro and Tokue was a beautiful thing to witness, especially as it developed over the course of the story. The simplicity of dorayaki combined with the complex emotions of the characters made for an experience that was truly unforgettable.

However, I must admit that the ending felt a little rushed, and I found myself wishing that the book was longer. It was a little sad to see the story come to an end, but nonetheless, I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartwarming and touching read.
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