I'm not sure why I picked up The Travelling Cat Chronicles, it's not my usual thing and I'm not even a cat person, but I have been wanting to read more translated work, so there is that. I found it a charming and moving tale about saying goodbye, partly narrated by a cat.

Nana is a stray, sleeping on the streets (or on top of Satoru's silver van) when he is involved in a road accident. Kind Satoru takes him in and tends him back to health. When given the choice, Nana decided not to go back to his old life, despite his fierce independence. Fast forward an undisclosed number of years, and Satoru is seeking a new home for his beloved cat. He's not able to take him where he is going.

Nana's voice is typical cat, he's a bit sarcastic and doesn't suffer fools gladly. He doesn't seem impressed by the people Satoru's considering for his new home. Part road trip, the story goes from one old friend to another, each time coming to the conclusion that it's not quite right for Nana. It's almost as if neither human or cat want to part.

The non-cat-narration tells the stories of how Sartoru got to know each person, their childhood history. This tales also shed light on the person Sartoru is today, and unfailingly kind and lovely individual, loved by all who knew him. It's not hard to guess what is happening but it's all about the interactions, and the smart arse cat.