The Travelling Cat Chronicles
Written by Hiro Arikawa
Narrated by George Blagden
4/5
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Currently unavailable
Currently unavailable
About this audiobook
A life-affirming anthem to kindness and self-sacrifice, The Travelling Cat Chronicles shows how the smallest things can provide the greatest joy.
We take journeys to explore exotic new places and to return to the comforts of home, to visit old acquaintances and to make new friends. But the most important journey is the one that shows us how to follow our hearts . . .
An instant international bestseller, The Travelling Cat Chronicles has charmed listeners around the world. With simple yet descriptive prose, this novel gives voice to Nana the cat and his owner, Satoru, as they take to the road on a journey with no other purpose than to visit three of Satoru's longtime friends. Or so Nana is led to believe . . .
With his crooked tail—a sign of good fortune—and adventurous spirit, Nana is the perfect companion for the man who took him in as a stray. And as they travel in a silver van across Japan, with its ever-changing scenery and seasons, they will learn the true meaning of courage and gratitude, of loyalty and love.
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Reviews for The Travelling Cat Chronicles
202 ratings36 reviews
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5I am not a cat person, so originally passed this book by, but as more and more of the blogs I follow highlighted and reviewed this book, I gave it a second look and I am glad I did. This is not really a book about a cat, but a journey of Satoru, his owner, seen through a cat's eyes.
I listened to this book and thoroughly enjoyed the story. The story is told in alternating POVs by Satoru Miyawaki and his much loved cat, Nana. It opens with a stray cat that is being fed by a young man, Satoru. When he gets hit by a car, Satoru hears the cries and rescues him, takes him to the vet and claims him as his own. He names him Nana (number 7 in Japanese), based on the shape of his tail. Nana and Satoru become best of friends and enjoy each others company, until the day Satoru tells him they are going on a trip. He needs to find a new owner for Satoru. The rest of the story is a trip through memory lane. Satoru visits his many friends from his past, claiming he needs a new home for Satoru. We never find out why he needs a new home, nor do any of the friends meet the criteria that Satoru is looking for, or that Nana is willing to accept.
This story brought out a lot of emotions in me. Satoru did not have an easy life, but he always made the best of it and actually thrived. He had many very special friends that helped him along the way. Seeing Satoru's life through Nana's eyes was hilarious at times, and sad at others. Some of the antics described actually had me laughing out loud. The ending is very emotional, so have a box of tissues nearby. The writing was highly descriptive, I really want to go and see Mount Fuji now after reading the vivid description in this book. This is a book that is not just for cat lovers, it is for anyone. There is much to be learned about friendship, love, family and relationships from this book. I highly recommend it. - Rating: 1 out of 5 stars1/5I am in the minority, here. Some readers whose opinions I respect, and with whom I usually agree, like this book a lot. But I thought it was just awful, and didn't make it more than halfway through. Part of the problem is a tin-ear translation. We're in Japanese culture here, and the cat is saying things like, "Excuuuuse me"--a super American (and very dated) expression. I like cats, and I often enjoy animals as narrators, but this cat never came alive, nor did the book as a whole.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5This is a surprisingly wonderful novel about a man and his beloved stray cat. Through the vehicle of a road trip on which he takes the cat to find it a new owner, you find out about his past friendships and the difficult times all his friends have gone through. It seems all the books I've read about Japan lately paint it in a bad light, so this was a delightful change. There's love, restraint, yearning, family - pretty much everything that makes us human, as seen through this tough cat's eyes. I highly recommend it.
- Rating: 4 out of 5 stars4/5Before I became a dog person I was a cat person and I’ve always been a sucker for books about a cat (I still think fondly of Paul Gallico’s Thomasina). My sister knows this about me so this book was a Christmas present from her. And I found this book about a stray Japanese cat quite charming.Nana (which is the Japanese word for seven) was living on his own in the city of Tokyo. He found a silver van on his travels one day and attracted the attention of the van’s owner who left bits of food for the cat. Occasionally Nana would let the man scratch him under his chin. The man who was called Satoru gave the cat the name of Nana because his tail had a kink at the end which made the tale look like the number seven. One night Nana was hit by a car and his leg was broken. He dragged himself back to Satoru’s place and yowled until Satoru came out. Satoru took Nana to the vet and had him recuperate at his apartment. Nana decided that he would continue to stay with Satoru even after he was healed. Nana could understand everything Satoru said and Satoru seemed to understand much of what Nana was feeling. Then one day Satoru took Nana for a drive to meet a childhood friend that he was hoping would agree to adopt Nana because Satoru found he had to give Nana up. When that didn’t work out Satoru took Nana to another friend and another but for various reasons the situations wouldn’t work But Nana does get quite a bit of travelling in while Satoru is pursuing this quest. Satoru never tells his friends why he has to give Nana up and he doesn’t explain it to Nana either. Nevertheless Nana knows the reason and he is determined to stay with Satoru. When the reader understands the reason time is drawing to a close for Nana and Satoru but their relationship is everlasting.Sweet wise and a little sad.
- Rating: 3 out of 5 stars3/5I dislike cats, but this story appealed to me - charming and subtle.
- Rating: 3 out of 5 stars3/5The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro ArikawaSatoru travels across Japan with Nana, the once stray cat that he made his own, to visit three of his lifelong friends.Saturo is looking for a new home for Nana, but we don’t find out why until the end of the book. Some of the narrative is from the cat’s point of view, but don’t let that keep you from reading it. Their first stop is at the home of Satoru’s most beloved childhood friend, Kozuke. We get a look into their lives when they were childhood friends and we get a look into Kozuke’s current situation. His wife has just left him and he has a strained relationship with his father, who has always been demanding and controlling.Their next stop is at a farm, where Satoru’s junior high classmate lives a quiet life in the country. Yoshimine and Satoru quickly became friends when Yoshimine transferred to Satoru’s school. Satoru also became close with Yoshimine’s grandmother, who tells Satoru to treat her home like his own grandmother’s home.Stop number three is at Sugi and Chikako’s hotel for pets. Nana has to deal with the cat and dog that live there and we learn about Sugi’s lifetime jealousy of Saturo.In the final journey, Satura visits his aunt, Noriko. She has always been a difficult person, but we soon learn there is much love underneath her tough exterior. This is where you will learn why Satoru is trying to re-home his beloved cat, Nana.Along their journey, Satoru and Nana “learn the true meaning of courage and gratitude, of loyalty and love.” A touching and sad story.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5A feral cat, ultimately adopted by Saturo Miyawaki and named Nana, tells the story of his travels with his beloved owner. As they travel throughout Japan, the duo reconnects with friends from Saturo’s past: Yoshimine, the farmer, Sugi and Chikako, the pet-friendly bed-and-breakfast owners, and Kosuke, recently left by his cat-loving wife. But why are the two on this trip? And what makes Nana the focus of everyone’s interest? Nana doesn’t know, but the answer is sure to break his little cat-heart.Readers are in for an emotional whirlwind as the story, relayed as seen through Nana’s eyes, unfolds. The cat’s unique perspective on humans is delightful and his thoughts are often mirthful. The characterizations are spot-on; Nana seems extraordinarily real, as if he would spring from the pages any instant; the love between man and animal is both fierce and gentle. Readers will find this compelling read impossible to set aside.Highly recommended.
- Rating: 4 out of 5 stars4/5Nana, a former stray taken in by a young man named Satoru, narrates much of this story of a road trip he takes with his adopted owner who suddenly announced he can no longer take care of Nana. The cat isn't quite sure what's going on, but as he meets each friend from Satoru's past and learns his story, he begins to understand the owner who took him in.I enjoyed the story and the device of using a tough-guy stray to tell the story. It took me a little while to get in the flow, because it's a little jarring to go from one friend to the other, and to switch from Nana telling the story to the history being filled in by a third-person narrator. I wasn't always sure what the cat was learning from reminiscences of the friends and what was being filled in for the reader. But there was a certain charm to the story and while nothing was truly unexpected, it did bring tears to my eyes in the end.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Did you know that cats possess the widest range of vocalizations of any domestic pet? Hiro Arikawa's wildly popular Japanese novel adds a twist by giving a human voice to a sassy stray cat that let's us know he has kept himself alive for one full year, without a name and human help, thank you very much. The simple story has a deep meaning that becomes clearer and clearer before tenderly breaking your heart in the last forty pages. The two main characters, the sassy cat and his master, Satoru Miyawaki, a gentle man with a quiet nature, remain with me long after I finished this fictional gem. The hood of that silver van was my favorite place to sleep. Why there? Because no one would ever shoo me away. Even in winter, the sun made it all warm and toasty, the perfect spot for a daytime nap. One day I suddenly sensed a warm, intense gaze upon me...A tall, lanky young man, staring down at me...And so began the perfect life from the cat's point of view. The man would place a little food under the van and the cat would allow the man to stroke him in exchange. This worked right up until the day the cat had a run-in with a hit-and-run driver. Satoru rescued the injured cat and the two soon developed a deeply satisfying five-year relationship. Their conversations are charming and will warm your heart. It reminded me of the old tv show, The Odd Couple and the snappy repartee between Oscar and Felix. Satoru, named him Nana, as his tail resembled the Japanese character for the number seven. Now wait just a second, Isn't Nana a girl's name? I'm a fully fledged, hot-blooded male. In what universe does that make sense?In a move that surprises the readers as much as Nana, Satoru, now about 30 years-old, tells him they are going to take a road trip together - to find Nana a new home. "Nana, I'm sorry. I 'm really sorry it's come to this. I never intended to let you go."No need to explain. I'm quick on the uptake... so don't look so glum, chum.As they travel from one childhood friend's home to the next along their journey, Satoru's earlier story unfolds like an onion; an apt metaphor. Each layer revealing another sad chapter, that somehow, Satoru overcomes keeping his remarkably upbeat attitude. The odd duo crisscross Japan in the hopes of finding a new home for Nana. Each old friend seems willing to accept Nana, often with conditions and a promise to feed but not pamper. At each stop along the way, Satoru manages to avoid revealing the reason he needs to leave Nana. Just when it looks like Nana will have a new home, the cat, fiercely loyal to his master, sabotages the transfer.In the end, Satoru realizes he just can't part with Nana. The lonely man and the loyal sidekick take a long tour of the highs and lows of Japan together; traveling from Mount Fuji to the beautiful sandy beaches. Along the miles, the reader begins to understand Satoru's secrets. As the sun sets on their journey, Satoru will find peace and the reader will have a good cry. Highly recommended reading for everyone; not just cat lovers.ARC from Netgalley and Berkley
- Rating: 4 out of 5 stars4/5A stray cat makes his home atop Satoru's van. Satoru begins providing food for the cat. When a passing car injures the cat, Satoru tends to it, eventually moving out of his apartment into one which allows pets. He names the cat Nana. Things go well for about five years until Satoru suddenly announces he must fine a new home for Nana. We learn a lot of Satoru's back story and see similarities between his life and the cat's. Satoru never tells his friends why he seeks a new home for his cat but he knows none of these homes is right for Nana. My favorite parts of the story are those narrated by Nana himself. This tear-jerking Japanese story in English translation will charm cat lovers. I received an uncorrected proof through a GoodReads giveaway with the hopes, but not requirement, of a review.
- Rating: 3 out of 5 stars3/5A charming tale of a stray and his human friend. This is a story that shows us many things about cats, but also about Japanese culture and friendship in general. Get out your hankies.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Nana is living the life of a stray cat in Tokyo. He’s claimed the top of a van as his home. He’s doing just fine, thank you, until one day when he’s hit by a car and injured quite badly. Satoru, the cat lover who owns the van and who has been leaving Nana food, takes Nana to the vet and brings him into his home to recuperate. Nana reminds Satoru of a cat he had as a child that he had to give up. That cat’s name was Hachi and Satoru still mourns the loss of that beloved cat. Five years pass quickly when Satoru tells Nana that they have to take a journey. Satoru has to find another home for Nana but doesn’t tell the reason why this is so. Have you ever had a cat that you loved beyond all reason? Then this is the book for you. Nana the cat is the witty narrator of this delightful yet poignant story. I’ve read several books by Japanese authors over the last year that had the same charm and quirkiness. These books are written in such a simple manner and yet are so profound. They read like a folktale with deep meaning and I’ve on the hunt for more like this one. This delightful book truly touched my heart and I know I’ll never forget it and that’s all I can ever ask of a book. Nana and Satoru crept into my heart and there they will stay.Most highly recommended.This book was given to me by the publisher in return for an honest review.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5This book was wonderful! It is a delightful, warm love story of a man and his cat told in the voice of the cat. I found myself totally invested in their lives.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5It read like a really good anime. I could definitely see it being made into an incredibly touching children's movie. Perfect for anyone who loves cats and believes in the very special relationship between a cat and their person.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5A painfully beautiful tale about a cat and his master, Saturo. The narration seems to have the right amount of sass and sensibility a respectable cat like nana should have.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Loved the reader he really brought the characters to life. Book is funny and heartfelt.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5The voice switches was great. Nana sounds like how a philosophical cat should sound. A sensitive and humorous insight into the Zen world of cats.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Oh my heart. This was a great story. I recently lost my fur baby of 14 years and this book helped a little with my grief.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5A lovely "tail" of a man, a cat, and a life of friendship.
- Rating: 4 out of 5 stars4/5Fun, bright and nostalgic novel. I like the way Satoru says farewell to his friends.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Very sweet story! Wonderful cat viewpoints, entertaining. Keep on past a little slow beginning.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5A very pleasant short story for animal lovers. Narrator did a great job with the voice of Nana the cat, really captured the attitude and pride I imagine cars would speak with.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Man - this book made me feel some feels that I was unprepared to have. What an emotional ride. Like the title implies - this book follows a cat and his journey around Japan with his owner. Born as an outside cat, Nana lives the first few years of his life on the street - but when he is hit by a car, kind and loving Satoru takes him in. He's not sure he wants to be an indoor cat but he soon grows to love his human, even though he hates the name he is given, Nana. They spend five happy years together but soon Saturo must find a new owner for Nana. They travel all across Japan meeting up with Saturo's old friends and classmates trying to find a suitable new owner for Nana. While traveling Nana gets to learn all about Saturo's childhood and formative years and starts to get a better appreciation for his human. Heartfelt, touching, and I definitely just shed some tears.
- Rating: 4 out of 5 stars4/5A seven-tissue weeper. Read it if you need a good cry and don’t mind a lot of sentimentality.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5This gentle and tender story is an extraordinary tale. Translated from Japanese, it tells of the story of man looking to find a new home for his beloved cat. In a series of flashbacks, readers learn of this man’s past, of his family and friends, and of his love for two special cats who graced his life. Though a quick read, the story of Satoru is a poignant one that readers will linger over, slowing over the words to the bittersweet ending. It is much more than just a story of a man and his cats. It talks about relationships, love, family, and friends, and the loss of those things. But it also talks about endurance, hope, and of things to come.
- Rating: 4 out of 5 stars4/5Warm yet bittersweet story told by a cat and the people he meets.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5The connection between man and animals goes so deep. Such a wonderful tale from a cat's POV. Nana, who is a male cat, his tale has the shape of the 7 character so Satoru named him so. Nana was a stray, until an injury left him vulnerable, Satoru rescued him and gave him a home. They form a bond, well the cat deside to stay for awhile, because you know it is always up to the cat. Time passes Satoru and Nana develop an unbreakable bond, even when faced with a great change. Nana and Satoru go on an adventure.*Spoilers below*Oh this book ! I really enjoyed the Japanese view on life and death through this cat's eyes. The connection with the people, the earth and ancestors it was beautiful. The end of a life even short was so respected and almost celebrated. Nana readies himself for his transition by training the next generation (kitten) the ways. In the end Nana was always his cat and they will see each other again, when the time comes.
- Rating: 4 out of 5 stars4/5I so enjoyed this book. Told from the cat’s perspective, its proof the importance of life is the everyday things we do. Its looking for wonders as you go along and how we should all cherish our friendships. As the cat, Nana, shares his life with the human, Satoro, the story unfolds in Tokyo but leaves the metropolitan area for the quiet country of Hokkaido.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Just finished this book and I loved it! A little slow to start but a strong finish. Told from the POV of the cat with a true voice. True friends to the end. Bring Kleenex. Just wish I caught all the cultural refences.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5I'm NOT a cat person, but this novel was beautiful and touching.